MONEY AND COSTS

What currency is used in Curaçao?

• Antillean Guilder (ANG). Its value is stable: 1 USD ≈ 1.75 ANG.

• The U.S. dollar is widely accepted in hotels, restaurants and cabs.

Can I pay by credit card?

Yes, international credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) are accepted. Debit or contactless cards are not accepted everywhere.

Is Curaçao expensive?

• Lodging: From $25 in hostels to $300+ in resorts.

• Food: From $10 at local eateries to $50+ at gourmet restaurants.

• Transportation: Car rental from $30/day. Local bus ~$1 USD.

TRANSPORTATION ON THE ISLAND

Do I need to rent a car?

It is not mandatory, but highly recommended if you want to explore secluded beaches or move freely. Public transportation is limited and infrequent.

Is there Uber?

No. In Curaçao there is no Uber or other similar apps. Only traditional cabs (fixed fares, no meter).

How does public transportation work?

• There are two types of minibuses: official “Konvoi” and informal “bus”.

• They do not have fixed schedules.

• They are cheap, but slow and unpredictable.

• They do not operate at night.

BEACHES AND NATURE

Which are the best beaches?

• Kenepa Grandi Beach (Grote Knip): Scenic, turquoise waters, free.

• Cas Abao: Private beach, ideal for snorkeling ($6 entrance fee per car).

• Mambo Beach: Popular, with bars and services, free entrance but you must pay for chairs.

• Playa Lagun: Quiet, ideal for turtle watching.

• Porto Mari Beach: Beautiful, with cold beers and good snorkeling.

Is it possible to snorkel or dive?

Yes, and it is one of the great attractions. Sites like Tugboat, Mushroom Forest or Kalki Beach are perfect. There are dozens of certified diving schools.

CULTURE AND GASTRONOMY

What language is spoken?

• Papiamento (local Creole language).

• Spanish, English and Dutch are also widely spoken.

What typical dishes are there?

• Keshi Yena: cheese stuffed with meat or chicken.

• Stobá: meat or goat stew.

• Pastechi: stuffed empanadas.

• Iguana guisada: exotic, but traditional.

• Bolo Pretu: fruit and rum cake.

Where to eat well?

• Plasa Bieu in Willemstad: local cuisine and affordable prices.

• The Gouverneur de Rouville: view of the canal, excellent Creole food.

• Baoase Culinary Beach Restaurant: high-end, perfect for romantic dinners.

ACCOMMODATION

Where to stay?

• Willemstad (Punda/Otrobanda): centrally located, ideal for walking and exploring history.

• Jan Thiel: modern tourist area with resorts and nightlife.

• Westpunt: secluded, nature and unspoiled beaches.

Are there economic options?

Yes, hostels, guesthouses and Airbnbs from $25-40 per night.

CONNECTIVITY

How to have Internet in Curaçao?

• Many accommodations offer free WiFi.

• You can buy a local prepaid SIM (Digicel or Flow) for ~$10 USD with data.

• Or use international roaming, but it can be expensive.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

Is Curaçao safe?

Yes, it is one of the safest destinations in the Caribbean. But follow these precautions:

• Do not leave valuables in cars or on beaches.

• Avoid walking alone at night in lonely areas.

• Use ATMs in public places and during the day.

Do I need vaccinations?

There are no mandatory vaccinations for entry. But it is recommended:

• Yellow fever (if you come from an endemic area).

• Basic vaccinations up to date (hepatitis A/B, tetanus).

Is tap water safe to drink?

Yes, the water in Curaçao is 100% potable and of high quality. It is obtained by desalination.

EVENTS AND NIGHTLIFE

When is the Curaçao Carnival?

Between February and March. It lasts several weeks and includes colorful parades, concerts and street parties.

Is there nightlife?

Yes, especially in Mambo Beach and Jan Thiel. Bars like Wet & Wild, Zanzibar or Hemingway are popular.

CLIMATE AND BEST SEASON

What is Curaçao’s climate?

• Tropical dry. Average temperature: 28-32°C all year round.

• Dry season: January to September.

• Light rainfall: October to December (does not affect tourism too much).

Is it part of the hurricane path?

No. Curaçao is outside the hurricane belt, so it is an ideal year-round destination.