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Few scams

Caribbean

Tourist scams in Curaçao

Curaçao is generally safe for visitors, but car break-ins are a recurring problem. Tourist shopping can involve high prices and goods of uncertain quality or authenticity, especially in Punda. Tourists may also receive unwanted drug offers.
  1. 1 TheftCommonCar break-insThieves break into parked cars to steal belongings. Some rental agencies prohibit parking their cars at certain places because of this problem.Parked cars across the island; no specific locations are named. 2Read
  2. 2 ShoppingCommonHigh tourist prices and questionable product qualityVisitors can pay very high prices for food, drinks and goods. Products may have uncertain quality or originality. High prices alone do not prove fraud, but a purchase may offer poor value.Willemstad 1Read
  3. 3 ShoppingOccasionalPossibly counterfeit luxury goodsSome luxury goods have uncertain authenticity. Prices may also be higher than at home, despite tax breaks.Willemstad 1Read
  4. 4 On the streetOccasionalUnwanted street drug offersTourists may be openly offered cocaine or cannabis. No specific fraud is described, but the approach can be unwanted.No specific locations are named. 1Read

Where to stay alert

  • Punda, WillemstadThe main tourist shopping district is linked to high prices, questionable product quality and luxury goods of uncertain authenticity.

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • Look for a marked taxi with a plate reading "TX."
  • Agree on the total fare before setting off, including any tour.
  • Airport taxi fares are listed as US$20–60, depending on destination, time of day and negotiation.
  • Consider Click Curaçao, the local ride-sharing app described as cheaper than regular taxis.

Money

  • Check the exchange rate before changing money.
  • Confirm which currency a price uses before paying.
  • Count your change before leaving.
  • Carry some cash for petrol, which requires payment in US dollars or Caribbean guilders.

Cards and ATMs

  • Check the displayed withdrawal fee before accepting it.
  • Cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
  • Keep your card in sight when paying.
  • Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted; American Express is less widely accepted.

Your belongings

  • Never leave valuables in a parked car.
  • Follow the rental agency's parking restrictions.
  • Keep bags with you when leaving the car.
  • Keep copies of important documents separately from the originals.

Nights out

  • Check drink prices before ordering.
  • Confirm happy-hour times and included drinks.
  • Politely decline unwanted drug offers and move on.

What travellers say about Curaçao

Discussions on other sites, summarised in our words. Open a link to read the full thread.

Questions

Is Curaçao a high-risk destination for tourist scams?

The overall risk is low. Use normal precautions, with particular care over belongings in cars and purchases in tourist shops.

Can I leave my bag in a rental car?

Take it with you. Car break-ins are recurring, and some rental agencies prohibit parking at particular places.

Where should I be most careful when shopping?

Punda in Willemstad is linked to high prices and goods of uncertain quality or authenticity. Compare prices and inspect items before paying.

Are luxury goods always cheaper or genuine?

No. Authenticity can be uncertain, and prices may be higher than at home despite tax breaks. Check both before buying.

How can I avoid a taxi fare dispute?

Use a marked taxi with a "TX" plate and agree on the total fare before leaving. Airport fares are listed as US$20–60. Click Curaçao is another option.

What should I check before ordering food or drinks?

Check the menu price and currency. If using a happy hour, confirm its times and which drinks qualify.

Is changing money a major scam concern?

Tourists are unlikely to be taken advantage of when changing currency. Still, check the rate and confirm the amount you will receive before handing over money.

What should I watch for at ATMs?

Check the withdrawal fee before accepting it, cover your PIN and put your cash away securely. High ATM fees are reported, but no specific card-skimming method is described.

What should I do if someone offers me drugs?

Say a friendly "no, thank you" and keep moving. This is usually enough to end the approach.

What should I do first after a scam or theft?

Get somewhere safe. Freeze any stolen cards, save evidence and report theft or suspected fraud to police. Contact the rental agency if a car was involved.

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