Electricity

The electrical current is 127 volts, 50Hz. Two-pronged flat plugs are used.

Language

Dutch is the official language, but English and Spanish are widely spoken. The majority of islanders speak Papiamentu, a Creole language.

Money

The official currency is the Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG), which is divided into 100 cents. US currency (USD) is widely accepted, especially in tourist areas, but change is typically given in guilder (ANG). The Guilder is pegged to the US Dollar at a fixed rate of 1 USD to 1.78 ANG. Most major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) are widely accepted in many businesses, particularly in more urban and tourist areas. However, it's always a good idea to carry some local currency (ANG) for small purchases or places that may not accept cards. Banks and exchange bureaux will change foreign currency, and ATMs are available for withdrawing local currency (ANG) or sometimes USD. Travellers should be aware that there may be fees or limits on ATM withdrawals, depending on their card or bank.

Tipping

A 10 percent service charge is usually added to restaurant bills, but a few extra guilders as change is appreciated. Most hotels add a 12 percent service charge, and porters are usually tipped one or two guilders. It's customary to tip taxi drivers about 10 percent.

Health

Curaçao has no tropical diseases such as malaria, although mosquitoes can be a nuisance, especially during the rainy season. No vaccinations are required for general travellers, but the Hepatitis A vaccine is often recommended, as a precaution, for travellers who may have exposure to food and water in certain areas. Additionally, proof of yellow fever vaccination is required for travellers coming from yellow fever-infected areas (mainly certain parts of Africa and South America).

Tap water in Curaçao is safe to drink, as it's desalinated from seawater, and is of high quality.

The island has several medical centres and a modern hospital (the Curaçao Medical Center), but travel insurance is strongly recommended in case of medical emergencies or unforeseen circumstances.

Safety

Most visits to Curaçao are trouble-free, but petty crime, such as pickpocketing or small thefts, has been reported more frequently in recent years. While tourist areas are generally safe, it's still a good idea for travellers to take sensible precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended at the beach, avoiding walking alone off the main roads at night, and staying aware of their surroundings. Curaçao has been used as a transit point for drug smuggling from South America to Europe and North America, so visitors should avoid leaving bags unattended or agreeing to carry packages for others, as this can lead to serious problems.

Local customs

Topless sunbathing is technically illegal on the island, and public nudity is not permitted. Beachwear, including swimsuits, is considered inappropriate away from the beach or pool areas, and visitors are expected to cover up when leaving these zones. Curaçao is known for being a gay-friendly destination, with a welcoming atmosphere for LGBTQ+ travellers.

Doing business

Curacao is an important centre of business in the Caribbean. Business tends to be conducted formally; punctuality is important and dress is smart and conservative. Greetings are usually accompanied by a handshake and business cards are exchanged. Although Dutch is the official language, Spanish and English are widely spoken. Business hours are usually 7.30am to 12pm and 1.30pm to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Duty free

Travellers to Curacao may import 200 cigarettes, 100 cigarillos, 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco, and one litre of alcohol. There are no restrictions around perfume.

Communications

The international dialling code for Curacao is +599. Free WiFi is available at most upscale hotels; travellers can purchase local SIM cards for unlocked phones.

Passport & Visa

Travellers are required to have a return or onward ticket, proof of accommodation, and all documentation required for their next destination. A Digital Immigration Card must be completed online before arrival. Visa extensions are possible through local immigration authorities. Passports must be valid for the duration of the intended stay and issued within the last 10 years. While some sources recommend six months' validity, this isn't a formal requirement. Entry policies can occasionally vary in practice, so it's wise to check with official immigration sources before travel.

Entry requirements

United States citizens must hold a valid passport. No visa is required for stays of up to 180 days.

UK passport holders, irrespective of the endorsement regarding their national status, must hold a passport valid for the duration of intended stay in Curaçao. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.

Canadian nationals must have a passport valid for the duration of intended stay in Curaçao. No visa is required for a stay of up to 90 days.

Australian citizens must have a passport valid for the duration of intended stay in Curaçao. No visa is required for a stay of up to 90 days.

South African citizens must have a passport valid for the duration of intended stay in Curaçao, and must obtain a visa prior to entry. Passengers do not need a visa if they have a multiple-entry "C" visa issued by a Schengen Member State which lasts for a maximum of 90 days or a valid "D" visa issued by a Schengen Member State.

Irish nationals must have a passport valid for the duration of intended stay in Curaçao. No visa is required for a stay of up to 90 days.

New Zealand nationals must have a passport valid for the duration of intended stay in Curaçao. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.

Useful contacts

Curacao Tourist Board, 19 Pietermaai, Willemstad, Curaçao: +599 9 434 8200

911 (Police); 912 (Ambulance).