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Few scams

Caribbean

Tourist scams in Grenada

Grenada is generally safe, and there is little indication of tourist scams. The main price concerns are rounded-up US-dollar payments and “duty-free” shops that may charge more than supermarkets; neither necessarily means fraud.
  1. 1 Changing moneyOccasionalRounded-up US-dollar paymentsUS-dollar bills are widely accepted, but US coins are not. A business may give change in Eastern Caribbean currency or round up the bill. Rounding can leave you paying more than the stated price.Businesses accepting US-dollar cash payments 1Read
  2. 2 ShoppingOccasional“Duty-free” prices that are not the cheapestA “duty-free” label can make a price look like a bargain. Supermarkets in St George's and Grand Anse may sell the same goods for less. A higher price alone does not mean fraud.St George's 2Read

Where to stay alert

  • Tourist mall by the cruiser terminal, St George'sIts “duty-free” offers may cost more than goods in supermarkets. This is a price-comparison concern, not an identified theft hotspot.

Habits that keep you safe

Money

  • Confirm the currency whenever a price uses only a dollar sign.
  • Ask how US-dollar payments and change will be calculated.
  • Bring enough US-dollar bills to reach a bank; there is no currency exchange at the airport.
  • Compare “duty-free” prices with supermarket prices.
  • Plan your cash use so you do not leave with much Eastern Caribbean currency, which is difficult to exchange outside the Caribbean.

Taxis

  • Look for an “H” on the taxi's licence plate.
  • Agree on the fare and currency before starting the trip.
  • Carry cash, as taxi drivers seldom accept cards.

Your belongings

  • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
  • Avoid displaying expensive jewellery or large amounts of cash.
  • Keep bags closed and close to your body.
  • Carry only the valuables you need for the day.

Nights out

  • Ask about the strength of rum before ordering; local bars may serve very strong rum.
  • Drink slowly and keep track of how much you have had.
  • Keep your drink with you and arrange your journey home before drinking heavily.

What travellers say about Grenada

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

Questions

Are tourist scams a major concern in Grenada?

Grenada is generally safe. The main concerns described here are shopping prices and how cash payments are rounded. Keep valuables secure and check prices before paying.

How can I recognise a taxi?

Taxis have an “H” on their licence plates. Agree on the fare and currency before the journey.

Can I pay taxi drivers by card?

Taxi drivers seldom take cards. Carry enough cash and confirm the payment method before travelling.

What should I check when paying in US dollars?

Confirm the price currency and ask how change will be given. US-dollar bills are accepted, but US coins are not. Your change may be in Eastern Caribbean currency, or the bill may be rounded up.

Can I exchange money at the airport?

There is no currency exchange at the airport. Bring enough US-dollar bills to cover expenses until you can reach a bank.

Are the “duty-free” shops always cheaper?

No. Supermarkets in St George's and Grand Anse may be cheaper than the tourist mall by the cruiser terminal. Compare the same product and size before buying.

How should I protect my valuables?

Keep valuables out of sight, keep bags closed and avoid displaying jewellery or large amounts of cash. Carry only what you need for the day.

Is there anything to watch for when ordering rum?

Local bars may serve very strong rum. Ask about its strength and drink slowly. Strong rum alone is not evidence of a scam.

What should I do if I am scammed or robbed?

Get somewhere safe, save evidence and report theft or suspected fraud to the police. Contact your card issuer if payment details are at risk, and keep records for your insurer.

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