Curacao

What to wear in Curacao

Wear lightweight, natural fabrics year-round, but bring a light jacket for winter nights. Locals tend dress nicely for a night on the town, and some restaurants and casinos even require jackets for men. Hikes through national parks are best with long pants and hiking boots to shield your skin from cacti and rash-inducing plants.

Spoken language in Curacao

Dutch is the official language of the Netherlands Antilles. English, Spanish and French are spoken by most of the locals. The most common language, however, is the native dialect Papiamento, which is a hybrid language derived from Spanish, French, English, Dutch, and Arawak Indian.

Electricity in Curacao

The electricity rating is 110-130 volts/50 cycles. Similar, but not identical, to the US. Most of your appliances will work, but the discrepancy can cause problems like over-heating and bad time-keeping, so an adapter is advisable.

Customs information for Curacao visitors

We strongly advise that you confirm the following information and regard this only as a basic guide.

Entry

You'll need a valid passport or proof of citizenship like a birth certificate with a raised seal and a government-issued photo ID, as well as an onward or returning ticket.

Curacao Customs

Adult visitors 18 years of age and older may bring into the country up to 2 litres of liquor, 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, and 250 grams of tobacco as well as any personal items.

Departure Tax

Upon leaving Curacao, a $20.00 departure tax is levied.

US Customs

You can return to the US with $400 worth of duty-free merchandise. This may include 1 liter of alcohol, 5 cartons of cigarettes, and 100 cigars. The importation of Cuban tobacco products is strictly prohibited and punishable by heavy fines and/or criminal prosecution.

Advising for Curacao visitors

We strongly advise that you confirm the following information and regard this only as a basic guide.

Gambling/Drinking

You must be 18 years or older to gamble.

Sunburn and Heatstroke

Especially in summer, the tropical sun can be harsh, so wear plenty of sunblock and a hat, and drink lots of water.