Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Getting Around
Taxis
Taxis are identified by a sign on the car and a TX on the
license plate. They do not have meters, but fares to hotels are
posted at the airport, and drivers are required to carry a gov-
ernment-approved rate sheet that you may ask to see if you
suspect that you're not being quoted the correct fare. Most
drivers are friendly, professional, and honest, so expect to be treated fairly.
TIP:
A 24-hour automatic currency exchange ma-
chine is located in the terminal. Get enough money
here to pay for the taxi ride in guilders. It will be less
confusing than trying to calculate the exchange rate,
and drivers usually cannot make correct change in
foreign currency.
Some hotels offer free shuttle service to and from the airport; a taxi will be
about $15 to locations near Willemstad (a 15-minute ride). Expect to pay
about $20 for the trip to Lions Dive Resort (on the opposite side of the city),
and about $28 to Coral Cliff (on the west coast). If you have too much lug-
gage to allow the trunk lid to close securely, you'll be charged a dollar or
two extra. Rates legally increase by 25% after 11 pm, and a 10% tip is
appropriate for good service, but not mandatory. If the driver helps you
with your bags, or gives a mini-tour of the surroundings on the way to your
destination, consider tipping more generously.
Taxis don't routinely cruise the island looking for passengers, so if you're
leaving from someplace other than the airport, call the dispatcher to
request transportation. If you need a ride early in the morning or late at
night, make arrangements in advance.
TAXI DISPATCH:
869-0747 or 869-0752.
Sightseeing tours by taxi should be arranged through your hotel to guar-
antee a comfortable cab and knowledgeable driver. You'll pay about $25
per hour for up to four people, and establish the price before you get into
the taxi. If you need a ride to a restaurant or attraction, ask if your hotel
has a courtesy van. If not, request that someone at the front desk make
arrangements for a taxi with a driver who speaks your language, drives a
comfortable car (some are not air-conditioned), and knows the island well
(even natives sometimes do not know all the restaurants and nightclubs).
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