Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Got a Complaint?
US Customs officials are, for the most part, professional and
friendly. However, if you think you are treated unfairly or object
to the way your taxes are calculated, ask to speak with a supervi-
sor. Write down the badge number of everyone you deal with, in
case you wish to contact higher-ranking Customs Service authori-
ties at a later date.
Money Matters
Currency
Just to make things amusing, Aruba uses different currency
from Bonaire and Curaçao. All three islands graciously
accept US dollars and Venezuelan Bolivars, but don't try to
use Aruban bills on Bonaire or Curaçao, and expect Arubans
to be outright surly when presented with money from their
sister islands.
Aruba's official currency is the Aruban guilder (AWG), also known as the
florin (Afl). Bonaire and Curaçao use the Netherlands Antilles guilder
(ANG) (not the same as the Dutch guilder that was used in the Nether-
lands before the euro). Exchange rates may vary slightly at stores, hotels,
and restaurants, but both the AWD and ANG are pegged to the US dollar
and worth about 56¢ ($1=1.79ANG/AWG).
ALL PRICES
in this topic are quoted in US $.
On Aruba most prices are listed in both US dollars and Aruban guilders,
but Bonaire and Curaçao are more likely to post prices in only the local
currency. All three islands accept traveler's checks and most major credit
cards, but small establishments in rural areas may require cash, and some
may insist on local currency. Always carry enough cash for taxis, buses,
snacks, and tips.
TIP:
On Aruba, don't bother changing US dollars
into guilders. On Bonaire and Curaçao, simplify
your life by exchanging a small amount of money.
On all three islands, plan to charge as much as pos-
sible to your credit card. The exchange rate will be
exact, you'll have a detailed record of where your
money went, and you won't have to carry large
amounts of either currency.
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