Is It Safe To Travel To Curacao For Us Citizens?

Curaçao is a safe destination for US citizens, with low overall risk. However, there are some crime concerns, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, especially in tourist areas like hotel lobbies, restaurants, and beaches. The US State Department recommends that US citizens exercise normal precautions in Curaçao, as they can enter the island without a written permit and remain with them for up to 90 days.

Curaçao is generally considered safer but not crime-free. Travelers must be at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure or have not had measles in the past. Violent crime, such as homicides, armed robberies, home invasions, and sexual assaults, occurs although the number of incidents remains low. Petty theft and street crime are a concern, and there are violent crimes related to the illegal drug world, but the main tourist areas are generally safe.

To ensure safety, travelers should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate them in an emergency. The country has recently updated its travel protocols for American and other “high-risk country” visitors, requiring a negative PCR test result taken on September 3, 2024.

In conclusion, Curaçao is a safe destination for US citizens, with low crime rates and a focus on safety and security.

Is Curaçao safe for US tourists?

The Dutch Caribbean is a safe destination for tourists, but there are concerns about petty theft, street crime, and violent crimes related to illegal drugs. To protect yourself and your belongings, avoid isolated areas, keep valuables secure, and be vigilant for bag snatchers. Drug smuggling continues to be a concern, and it is important to never leave luggage unattended when departing the country. Dutch authorities screen all baggage and passengers from the Dutch Caribbean, and it is essential to carry a copy of the photo page of your passport.

Can US residents travel to Curaçao?

A visa is not required for a 90-day stay in a six-month period in this destination. However, travelers must hold a valid passport for at least six months, proof of onward and return flights, all necessary documents for the next destination, proof of travel purpose, and sufficient funds for their intended stay. It is recommended to confirm with your airline that boarding will be permitted without a visa.

What are the downsides of Curaçao?

Curaçao is known for its high rates of petty crime, including pickpocketing and purse snatching, as well as residential break-ins and theft. The crime rate increases during annual celebrations like Carnival. It is crucial to secure personal belongings, such as passports and travel documents, and never leave valuables unattended on the beach or in vehicles. Violent crime, including homicides, armed robberies, home invasions, and sexual assaults, also occurs, although the number remains low.

Can Americans drink the water in Curaçao?

Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao are home to safe tap water distilled from sea water, meeting World Health Organization standards. However, refill stations are limited, with public drinking fountains and local businesses not providing refills. To address this, “Gratis Drinkwater” is a initiative by Rob van Holstein and Charlotte, who aim to create a network of free refill stations and decrease the waste stream of small single-use plastic bottles by 90 by 2020. The initiative aims to create a more convenient and safe drinking environment for the islands.

Is Aruba or Curaçao better?

Both Aruba and Curaçao offer excellent scuba diving, with Aruba known for its wrecks and Caribbean reefs, while Curaçao offers more variety with excellent shore dives. Curaçao Underwater Marine Park covers 12 miles along the southeast coast, offering 11 dive sites, including sunken wrecks. Divers often visit both islands and Bonaire, making it a shame to visit the A and C but not the B of the ABC islands.

Is it safe to walk around Curaçao at night?

Curacao is a lively Caribbean island that can be lively at night, but it is important to stay on main streets and stay in well-lit areas. Be aware of your surroundings and be aware of the normal behavior of people in Curacao. They are generally friendly and will go out of their way to help you if needed. If you see something unusual, don’t be alarmed, just use your gut instinct.

The islands are easy to navigate, with most people speaking English, Dutch, Spanish, and the local language Papiamento. If you don’t speak these languages, it is important to know survival words like “police” and “hospital” and the emergency alarm number is 911. Using your gut instinct and knowing the local languages can help you navigate Curacao safely.

Are drugs a problem in Curaçao?

Curaçao serves as a pivotal node in the global cocaine and heroin trafficking network, facilitating the movement of these illicit substances from South America to North America and Europe.

Are Americans welcome in Curaçao?

US citizens can stay in Curaçao without a visa or permit for up to six months per year. For longer stays or work, a residence permit is required. Students need a student visa before arrival, and if they stay for six months and want to return, they must apply for a “declaration of admission” upon arrival. For more information, contact the Royal Netherlands Embassy or its consulates in the US. The US Department of State has no HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for Curaçao residents or visitors.

Is Curaçao expensive?

The daily cost of a visit to Curaçao can range from $100 to $500, depending on the traveler’s style of travel and the activities they wish to engage in.

What do I need to know before going to Curaçao?

To enter and leave Curaçao, a valid passport is required, along with proof of sufficient funds and lodging. Upon departure to the U. S., an airport departure fee of $65. 74 is required, with additional fees for Aruba or St. Martin. Some airlines may include these fees in the ticket price. An Embarkation and Disembarkation Card (ED-Card) is also required. For more information, visit the U. S. State Department’s website. Curaçao’s colorful capital, Willemstad, is a must-see destination, despite the beach being the main focus.

Is there a cartel in Curaçao?

Curaçao’s port is increasingly being used by international drug cartels for shipping large quantities of cocaine to the Netherlands and other European destinations, according to Dutch maritime magazine De Schuttevaer. Nine suspects of large-scale drug trafficking were tried in Willemstad, and the Joint Investigation Team (RST) has revealed a well-organized network of criminal activities. The suspects are alleged to have used corrupt port personnel to place cocaine in containers destined for Europe, with the street value of intercepted drugs estimated at 200 million guilders. The Public Prosecutor’s Office has demanded prison sentences ranging from 5 to 15 years for the involved individuals.