Otra Guide: Caribbean Travel

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Curaçao Insider Tips

01. Digital Immigration Application

Before you fly, there’s a Digital Immigration Form that every traveler must fill out before heading to Curaçao. It’s required for all non-resident visitors, whether you’re coming for holidays, business, or just passing through. It’s super simple and takes about 5 minutes. We recommend doing it well in advance of your trip—nobody likes the stress of filling out forms at the airport. You can find the form [here](https://dicardcuracao.com/dicard).

02. Digital Immigration Form

Here are the questions that you will be required to answer for your digital Immigration form. You will need to have your passport and flight information - and the length of your stay. The two questions that you may be frustrating are: Have filled out a Curacao Immigration Card in the Past? Many people have been here before, but the computer doesn’t find you - so just fill out the card as if you haven’t been here. Where are you staying? The list does not have all the Airbnbs on the Island listed... so type in the name or address you have. If you can’t find it - pick a popular hotel name.

03. Travel Insurance

While not mandatory, travel insurance can be a smart move. It covers unexpected events like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage. Even though Curaçao has good medical facilities, dealing with unexpected costs isn’t fun.

03a DennisMobile

DennisMobile is a handy eSIM built for travelers who want to stay connected without the roaming headaches. It lets you keep your own number while tapping into affordable data wherever you land. The app also makes it simple to call mobiles and landlines around the world, using the same credit you’d use for data, no extra tricks, no hidden charges. Details We Appreciate ● Works as an eSIM, no need to swap physical cards ● Lets you keep your own number while abroad ● One balance covers both data and calls ● Avoids roaming fees when calling worldwide

04. Health Insurance

During Covid is was mandatory to have proof of Health Insurance. That is no longer the case though you are advised to have medical insurance. The insurance should provide coverage for medical expenses and include hospital care, emergency treatment. If you don’t have medical insurance, it is not very expensive for a short trip, and worth the investment we feel Google ‘Travel Medical Insurance’ and many reputable companies will come up.

05. Passport & Visa

Your passport must not be more than 10 years old and must be valid during your entire stay. You will probably be asked by the Airline Check in Agent to show proof that you have either a Return Ticket, or proof of Transit to another country, or a valid work or Digital Nomad Visa.

06. Vaccinations and Health Precautions

Curaçao did require vaccinations when covid was at its height, but it no longer requires any proof of vaccinations to enter the country, though it’s wise to be up to date on routine vaccines. The one exception is: Travelers arriving in Curacao from areas with a risk of yellow fever are required to have a valid vaccination against yellow fever. We suggest you refer to the WHO website if you think you may be coming from one of those countries

07. Credit Cards and Debit Cards

Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted, while American Express and Discover are only accepted at the more high-end establishments. Debit cards are widely accepted. It’s smart to carry some cash for smaller businesses or rural areas where card payments might not be accepted.

08. Currency in Curaçao

In Curaçao, the local currency is the Caribbean Guilder, abbreviated as XCG. The Guilder is pegged to the US Dollar at a fixed exchange rate of 1 USD = 1.79 XCG, or in reverse, 1 XCG = $0.56 USD. This consistent rate is honored across the island, so whether you’re shopping, dining, or booking activities, businesses will accept both Guilders and US Dollars interchangeably without favoring one currency over the other.

09. ATMs

ATMs are easy to find across the island, and most work fine with international credit and debit cards. ATMs can dispense either Guilders or US Dollars, though many machines tend to have just one currency, so it’s a good idea to double-check before withdrawing. Overall, you’ll have no trouble using either currency during your stay!

10. Languages

Curaçao is a diverse and multi-cultural island. Most people, especially in the service industry, speak Papiamento, Dutch, Spanish, and English. Papiamento is the true local language. It’s a fascinating blend of Portuguese, Spanish, Dutch, and African languages. In a restaurant, hotel, or grocery store, the staff will start in one language but switch over to your preferred language if you ask. Fun Fact: “Dushi” is a versatile Papiamento word that can mean sweet, nice, great, brilliant, or even sexy. It’s used by everyone of every age and only means positive things.

11. Our Curacao Weather

Curaçao is hot, sunny, and breezy all year round. Daytime temperatures hover between 30-33°C (86-92°F), while nights are around 25-27°C (77-80°F). The island’s steady breeze keeps things comfortable, but the sun is always strong—so sunscreen and light, protective clothing are musts. While rain comes some months of the year, it tends to come in short bursts and then quickly clears up. Hint: You don’t need any warm clothing!

12. The Curacao Airport

Curaçao’s airport is modern and organized. After landing, you’ll follow signs directing you either to the Visitor or Local line. Depending on the setup, you might go through either an Immigration Inspector or a Passport and Facial Recognition Machine. Generally, the staff are friendly just have your passport and Digital Immigration Form handy, either printed out or on your phone.

13. On Arrival

After landing, you’ll follow signs directing you either to the Visitor or Local line. Depending on the setup that day, you will go through either an Immigration Inspector or a Passport and Facial Recognition Machine. Generally, the staff are friendly just have your passport and Digital Immigration Form handy, either printed out or on your phone.

14. The Arrivals Hall

There’s only one Arrivals Hall, which is bright, airy, and easygoing, setting the vibe for the rest of your trip. If someone’s there to pick you up, they’ll be easy to spot. If you need a drink, there’s a small stand-up bar on the right. Also, you’ll often find someone selling SIM cards for your phone right there. The buses are straight ahead, lining up on the right outside the doors.

15. The Arrivals Hall Bar

If you need a drink while waiting for your friends to arrive, or for your pick-up, or because you have just arrived on your Curcacao adventure, there is a convenient little bar right outisde of the arrivals doors called Bar 22. The staff is super chill and relaxed. Great start to your Holiday - or a welcome home.

16. Airport Vehicle Rentals

Exploring Curaçao is best done by car. Those who assume they don’t need one often end up scrambling to find one, especially in high season when availability is low. The major car rental agencies are conveniently located to the right after the Arrivals Hall. Check-in is at their desks, followed by a short walk further down the hall to meet staff near the parking lot. This process can be quick—or not—but remember, you’re on island time now!

17. Local Vehicle Rentals

Beyond the big-name agencies, several smaller, local rental companies offer competitive rates and friendly service. These companies might have smaller fleets, but they’re often more flexible and include insurance in their prices—something that major agencies tend to overcharge for.

18. Bus Transport to Accomodations

Many hotels and resorts can arrange airport transfers. Taxis can also be booked in advance. If you’re on a budget, buses serve certain hotels but double-check this before you leave home. For reference, downtown Willemstad is about 15 minutes away by car, Jan Thiel is 30 minutes, and Westpunt is a 35-minute drive.

19. Taxi to Accommodations

Taxis are just outside the arrivals hall to the left. Some have meters - but some don’t - so ask on the amount it will cost before you leave. You can also be book taxis in advance and some drivers will meet you at the Arrival Hall with a sign.