For generations of Freeport residents and visitors, the International Bazaar was far more than a place to shop. With its extraordinary mix of architecture, restaurants, shops and courtyards inspired by countries around the world, it was somewhere to wander, meet friends, eat, shop and simply enjoy the atmosphere. From the great Tori Gate at its entrance to familiar landmarks such as the smiling Buddha, the Bazaar became part of the fabric of Freeport — and for many who remember it in its heyday, there was nowhere else quite like it.

HOW IT BEGAN

The idea for an international shopping centre in Freeport was first announced in 1963, originally under the rather exotic name “Hong Kong West.” The concept evolved into the International Bazaar, with construction beginning in the mid-1960s and the Bazaar opening in 1967. Designed as a kind of miniature journey around the world, its shops, restaurants, streets and courtyards borrowed architectural styles from many different countries — creating something quite unlike anything else in The Bahamas.

The International Bazaar has sometimes been compared with EPCOT’s World Showcase in Florida. The similarities are certainly striking — both created a miniature journey around the world through architecture, shops, restaurants and entertainment. However, Disney had been developing internationally themed concepts since the 1950s, so there is no firm evidence that EPCOT was actually inspired by Freeport’s Bazaar.

What we do know is that Freeport’s International Bazaar was welcoming visitors on its own journey around the world a full 15 years before EPCOT opened in 1982.

An aerial view of the Bazaar as it was being constructed. The Hong Kong restaurant and Chinese section can be seen towards the right of the image.

BUILDING THE BAZAAR

The International Bazaar began life as an idea with the wonderfully exotic working name “Hong Kong West.” According to Port Authority oral-history notes, the idea originated with Mrs. Daniel Ludwig and was enthusiastically pursued by her husband and Wallace Groves.

The man chosen to turn that idea into reality was Hollywood set designer Hilliard Morris Brown. His theatrical approach explains the Bazaar’s extraordinary character: rather than simply constructing a shopping centre, Brown created a miniature journey around the world, with streets, courtyards and buildings evoking countries and cultures thousands of miles apart.

Construction began in 1965, and just two years later, in 1967, the International Bazaar opened its doors.

AROUND THE WORLD AT THE BAZAAR

JAPAN AND CHINA

SPAIN

AFRICA

FRANCE

Cafe Michel in the French Section – everyone’s favorite!

And of course, half the fun of a trip around the world was deciding where to eat! Cafe Valencia was a popular choice.

International Arcade

Beyond the colourful streets and courtyards of the Bazaar was the International Arcade, home to another collection of shops that became firm favourites with residents and visitors alike.

The London Pacesetter Boutique — one of the Arcade’s most popular shops.

The Pipe of Peace — even the shopping bags may bring back memories!

Remember any of these?

• Midnight Sun
• Solomon’s Mines
• La Sandale
• Evelyn of Lucaya
• The Olde Curiosity Shop
• Parfums de Paris
• Royal Crown Jewels
• Playgirl
• Bombay Bazaar
• Bahama Coin and Stamp Shop
• Colombian Emeralds

THE STRAW MARKET

For visitors to Freeport, a trip to the International Bazaar often included a wander through the Straw Market. Packed with colourful baskets, hats, bags, and other souvenirs, it offered tourists a distinctly Bahamian shopping experience — and plenty to take home as a reminder of their holiday.