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Curacao is an island in the Dutch Caribbean, fondly known for its bright colorful architecture.
One of the most historic and iconic features of the beautiful capital city of Willemstad is the Queen Emma Bridge. This is a pontoon bridge and is commonly referred to by the locals as the swinging old lady.
The unique feature of this bridge is that is opens. At the sound of a whistle, pedestrians quickly leave the bridge.
The bridge opens as ships makes their way across Saint Anna Bay. There is a free ferry in the event you want to go to Punda or Otrobanda while the bridge is open.
If you are looking forward to visiting the beaches and enjoying the nightlife in this beautiful Caribbean island, you may be wondering what currency is best for Curacao?
The best currency to use in Curacao is the Netherland Antillean Guilders or Florins. The US Dollar is readily accepted by most businesses. US coins are rejected. If you are planning on using US Dollar, it is best to carry smaller denominations. Change is usually given in the local Florins.
What Is The Official Currency of Curacao
The official currency of Curacao is the Netherland Antillean Guilders or Florins. The Netherland Antillean Guilder is pegged to the US dollar at a rate of USD $1 to $1.79 ANG.
This currency is also used by St Maarten and there is a Central bank for Curacao and St Maarten responsible for managing the stability of the currency.
The local currency is available in bank notes and coins. Bank notes are available in $10, $25, $50, $100 Guilders. Coins are available $1 Guilder, $5 Guilders, 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 cents pieces.
Do I need cash in Curacao?
Cash is essential for ease of doing business with street vendors, taxi drivers and small businesses on the island. Credit cards and debit cards are easy to use on the island at certain small, medium and large businesses.
Can you use US dollars Curacao?
US dollars are widely accepted around the island. However, unlike St Maarten US coins are rejected.
Almost all the ATMs around the island dispense US dollars in addition to Florins. Bank notes that are worn, torn and impaired are usually rejected. Change is usually given in the local currency.
Can you use Canadian dollars in Curacao?
On a whole, Canadian dollars are not accepted in Curacao. Persons are usually referred to commercial banks to have their bank notes converted.
Some of the main commercial banks on the island Maduro and Curiel N.V, Orco Bank N.V and Banco di Caribe, NV.
Can you use British Pound Sterling dollars in Curacao?
British Pound Sterling is not accepted by businesses on the island. This is due to the volatility of the Pound Sterling.
Businesses will generally refer you to a commercial bank to have your notes converted. Banks only exchange bank notes for Guilders.
Can you use Euro dollars in Curacao?
Certain businesses around the island accept Euros as a form of payment. However, the acceptance of Euros is not as widespread as US dollars.
Change will be given in the local currency. Certain ATMs on the island dispenses Euro dollars. Exercise great care and ensure that you choose the correct button.
Can you use a debit card in Curacao?
Debit cards can be used easily around the island. ATMs dispense Florins, US dollars and Euros.
Kindly note that there is usually a fee that is charged by your bank for each transaction. There are ATM machines all over the island with 24 hour access.
General Tips To Remember In Curacao
- There are ATMs both inside and outside of the Curacao International Airport. These are operated by the bank is Maduro and Curiel. These ATMs dispenses Florins, US dollars and Euros. Be mindful of which button you press to ensure you receive the appropriate currency.
- The Dutch snacks in Curacao and the other Dutch Caribbean islands such as Aruba and Bonaire are unique to that part of the Caribbean. Ensure and try them during your visit.
- Four languages are commonly spoken around the island. These languages are Dutch, Papiamiento, English and Spanish. It is mandatory for children to learn English at school and if you are a Spanish or English speaker you will find it easy to integrate on the island.
- Curacao is located outside of the hurricane belt therefore the chance of the island experiencing natural disasters such as hurricanes are extremely low.
- There is no ferry service that travels between Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao. Nevertheless there are daily flights via Insel Air. There is usually a blow-out sale in August around the anniversary of the airline.
- Some hotels usually provide some currency conversion at their front desk area. Kindly note that the rate may not be as favorable as a commercial bank.
- Ensure and notify your banks prior to traveling to prevent credit cards from being blocked as you begin using it on the island.
- Carry two current forms of identification in the event that you intend on doing business with a commercial bank.
- Mosquitoes are not as prevalent in Curacao and the Dutch Caribbean when compared to other Caribbean islands in the Eastern Caribbean as the level of rainfall is significantly lower.
Final Thoughts
On a whole, the best currency to use in Curacao is the official currency the Netherland Antillean Guilders or Florins. The US Dollar is readily accepted by businesses. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted by restaurants, bars, hotels and large supermarkets. ATMs are available at the airport.
If you are contemplating traveling to Curacao or the rest of the Caribbean, cruising is an affordable option to consider. I have recently completed an informative course by cruise specialist, Emma Cruises which you should check out titled How To Cruise For Less.
This course provides detail tips and techniques on how to save money while cruising onboard, onshore as well as the importance of insurance. So if you if you are considering a cruise for your next Caribbean vacation, check out How To Cruise For Less.
Need More Information?
Feel free to browse our website for more content on Curacao, the Dutch Caribbean and rest of the Caribbean by using the search bar located at the top of this page. The following are some of our articles which we believe may be suitable for you.
Living In Aruba (Pros & Cons Fully Explained)
Living In St Maarten (Pros & Cons Fully Explained)
Living In Saba Island (Pros & Cons Fully Explained)
What Are The Pros & Cons of Living In Curacao
What Are The Pros & Cons of Living In Bonaire
What Is The Best Currency For St Maarten
Best Currency In St Martin (The Ultimate Guide)
