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Few scams

Caribbean

Tourist scams in Anguilla

Anguilla is a safe island with a low crime rate. No specific tourist scams are identified, so there is no basis for saying how common they are. Check taxi fares and currencies, lock your doors at night, and keep belongings out of unlocked rental cars.

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    Habits that keep you safe

    Taxis

    • Taxis have set fares and do not use meters. Confirm the fare before you leave.
    • At the airport, get the fare slip from the dispatcher and keep it until the trip ends.
    • Confirm whether the fare is in U.S. dollars or East Caribbean dollars.
    • Check whether you can pay by card or need cash before starting the trip.

    Money

    • Most places serving tourists price goods and services in U.S. dollars. Ask which currency a price uses if it is unclear.
    • U.S. dollars are accepted throughout Anguilla. The fixed exchange rate is US$1 to EC$2.70.
    • Check your change before leaving. Small change may include both U.S. and East Caribbean money.

    Cards and ATMs

    • Ask whether your card is accepted before ordering or buying. Hotels and restaurants take cards, but acceptance varies.
    • Visa and MasterCard are preferred. Do not rely on American Express alone.
    • Check the amount and currency on the card terminal before approving payment.
    • Keep your PIN covered and turn on transaction alerts if your bank offers them.

    Your belongings

    • Lock your rental car whenever you leave it.
    • Do not leave personal belongings in an unlocked rental car. Take valuables with you.
    • Do not give rides to pedestrians.

    Where you stay

    • Lock your doors at night.
    • Store your passport, spare cards and extra cash securely.

    Tours and guides

    • Taxi drivers offer island tours lasting several hours. Agree on the total price before starting.
    • Confirm the tour length, stops and any extra charges before you leave.

    Questions

    Is Anguilla a high-risk place for tourist scams?

    Anguilla has a low crime rate and is described as safe. No specific tourist scams are identified, but that does not guarantee a trouble-free visit.

    Do taxis use meters?

    No. Taxis use set fares. Confirm the price before leaving. At the airport, the dispatcher issues a slip showing the fare.

    How do I avoid confusion over prices?

    Ask whether a price is in U.S. dollars or East Caribbean dollars before paying. Most places serving tourists quote prices in U.S. dollars.

    Is mixed-currency change a sign of a scam?

    Not by itself. You may receive small change in both U.S. and East Caribbean money. Check the total using the fixed rate of US$1 to EC$2.70.

    Can I rely on paying by credit card?

    Check first. Hotels and restaurants take cards, but acceptance varies. Visa and MasterCard are preferred, and American Express is not accepted everywhere.

    Can I leave belongings in my rental car?

    Do not leave personal belongings in an unlocked rental car. Lock the car when you leave it and take valuables with you.

    What precautions should I take at my accommodation?

    Lock your doors at night. Keep your passport, spare cards and extra cash in secure storage.

    What should I check before taking a taxi tour?

    Taxi drivers offer island tours lasting several hours. Agree on the total price, currency, duration, stops and any extra charges before starting.

    Where can I report theft or suspected fraud?

    The police station is in The Valley. Save your evidence and ask for a report reference or copy. Also contact your bank promptly if a card or payment is involved.

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