Just about everything you need to know about visiting Curacao is contained in curacao-travelguide.com website. We realize, however, you may just need a quick question answered so we have created this page to present answers to the most frequently asked questions received from our readers. If your question is not addressed here or you cannot find it somewhere in our site or our Curacao Bulletin Board, feel free to contact us.
When is the best weather in Curacao?
Located in the tropics, just 12° north of the Equator -- and outside of the hurricane belt -- Curaçao has a warm, sunny climate year round. The average temperature is about 27° C ( mid 80s F). Refreshing trade winds blow constantly from the east, picking up in the spring months. The rainy season, October to February, is marked by short, occasional showers, usually at night, and continued sunny weather by day. Total annual rainfall averages only 570 mm (22 inches). Occasionally a tropical storm brewing elsewhere in the Caribbean can cause uncharacteristically cloudy weather for a day or two.
See also our "Weather Page".
Do I need a passport to visit Curacao?
please see our "Entry Requirements page".
Is the water safe to drink?
Tap water is distilled directly from the sea, tastes good, and is safe to drink.
What Time Is It?
Curaçao is on Atlantic Standard Time: one hour later than US Eastern Standard Time (the same time as Eastern Daylight Savings Time) and four hours earlier than Greenwich Mean Time.
Do I need electrical adaptors for my hairdryer/radio etc.?
Electricity is 110 - 130 volts/50 cycles, similar but not identical to the US standard. Most 60 cycle electrical appliances from the United States will function properly, although appliances that have internal time mechanisms will not keep the correct time and hairdryers and curling irons may overheat if used for too long. Dual voltage appliances from Europe and South America will need an adapter plug, readily available on the island. Although electrical current is generally reliable, consider using a surge regulator for sensitive electronic devices and computers. It's a good idea to charge underwater strobes and videos on the regulated systems at dive shops and photo centers.
Should I exchange my money for local currency?
Matters:U.S. currency is accepted everywhere, as are Travelers Checks and most major Credit Cards. Debit Cards are accepted at a (large) shops and supermarkets. Prices are quoted in the national currency, the Netherlands Antillean guilder (also called the florin), abbreviated NAFl. or ANG. It is pegged to the US dollar at a stable rate of US$ 1 = NAFl. 1.77 for cash, 1.78 for traveler's checks. Exchange rates may vary slightly at stores and hotels. Bills of US$50 and US$100 can be hard to cash. The larger denominations of guilder bills (100 and 250) are hard to cash for small purchases. There are currently two versions of guilder coins in circulation. The old square nickel and the newer square fifty cent piece are among the few square coins in the world; along with the 21/2 guilder coin they are popular souvenirs, particularly for children. There is no black market and there are no restrictions on how much money you can bring into the country.
Are there any airport fees?
An airport tax of U.S.$ 22.00 per person for international flights (including Aruba) and flights to Curacao, or U.S. $10.00 per personal for inter-island flights is payable when leaving the island. (subject to change without prior notice).
What is the legal drinking/gambling age?
The legal age for both drinking and gambling is 18 years. It is not, however, widely enforced. You will not usually be "carded".
Can I bring my pet to Curacao?
Pet cats and dogs from most countries are allowed if accompanied by valid rabies and health certificates from a veterinarian. Pets from South and Central America are not allowed. However, most hotels do not allow pets. Please check with your hotel in advance.
What about fishing?
The 'Eembaai' and 'Schottegat' have a rich stock of tarbot and pike throughout the entire year. April, May and June are the top months with some really large fish amongst them. Fishing is carried out from 4 metre long Boston Whalers with live tanks. The boats are handled by fishing guides. In some bays it is possible to fish for barracuda, horse-eye jack and ladyfish in addition to tarbot and pike.
Can I use a metal detector on the beaches?
There are no restrictions on the use of metal detectors.
Where are the "clothing optional" beaches?
Public nudity of any kind is illegal and insulting to the Curacao's people. Topless sunbathing and swimming is
tolerated on most beaches in the resort areas, but not on resort grounds.
Are there any gay/lesbian related businesses on Curacao?
The gay population is not large enough to support gay businesses (bars, nightclubs, etc) in Curacao.
Neither is the visiting gay/lesbian market to the island. Curacao is "gay friendly" and welcomes all lifestyles.
Can I access the Internet from Curacao?
At several resorts there are internet terminals. Ask your accommodation for details.
Also a local Internet cafe: Time Out Cafe (Punda, Willemstad).
Can you send me brochures, make hotel or airline recommendations or send other information?
We're sorry, but curacao-travelguide.com is an internet oriented service only and is unable to provide any information by postal mail. For Brochures of the Tourism Authority, see our "Contact US Page".
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