Curaçao
Travel tips for Curaçao: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.
Cash and cards
Cards widely accepted. Credit cards are widely accepted at most restaurants and grocery stores, but you will still need cash (USD or local currency) for gas stations, some accommodations, and to avoid poor exchange rates at certain terminals.
Try the food
- Keshi Yena: A large hollowed-out Edam or Gouda cheese stuffed with spiced meat, olives, and capers, then baked until melted.
- Karni Stoba: A rich, slow-cooked beef stew featuring papaya, potatoes, and a blend of local spices.
- Funchi: A dense, savory cornmeal mush often sliced and fried to a crisp, served as a side dish to soak up rich stews.
Say it in Dutch
- Hello: Hallo
- Thank you: Dank u
- Please: Alstublieft
- Excuse me: Pardon
- How much is this?: Hoeveel kost dit?
- The bill please: De rekening alstublieft
- Yes / No: Ja / Nee
- Goodbye: Tot ziens
Essentials
- Voltage
- 127V/220V, 50Hz
- Driving
- Right side
- SIM tip
- Pick up a Digicel or Flow prepaid SIM card at Hato International Airport upon arrival, or download an eSIM beforehand for instant connectivity.
Etiquette
A 10 percent service charge is often added to restaurant bills, but leaving an extra 5 to 10 percent in cash for excellent service is highly appreciated.