‘’Oh, so you are going to the Caribbean?, that must be really expensive!’’ that is definitely the most common answer I receive whenever I tell someone that I’m going to the Caribbean.
And I must admit, I always look into my budget whenever I start planning my next holiday, especially if I’m going somewhere like Curacao, but that doesn’t mean that this island is for rich people only and I can’t afford to go there. As a matter of fact, Curacao welcomes all budgets!
So, if you are like me and you too think about the great time you will have in the Caribbean, regardless of what your budget looks like, then continue reading and find out everything I already found out and discovered about this paradise on earth!
Curacao must be really expensive
What comes to mind whenever you think about the Caribbean? Sandy beaches? Of course. Crystal clear water? Definitely. The price of things? You bet! Planning your trip and making a budget is perfectly normal, in fact, it must be encouraged.
But some people seem to have a misconception of some places, partly because they think those holiday destinations must be really expensive and, on the other hand, because they simply don’t know much about the destination.
Before you go to Curacao, I will recommend you to have a look at your finances and decide what your budget will be. This will actually save you from a lot of problems later on during your trip.
Whenever you have your budget set, then start looking into the different options you have on the island. You should decide whether you would like to stay in a hotel or a hostel, whether you would like to eat out in restaurants or if you would like to make your own lunch.
An upcoming trip is always exciting, especially if you are going to the beautiful tropical island of Curacao. This is why you should be ahead of your own game and create your personal budget, especially if you want to enjoy this much deserved holiday!
Location, location, location
You should definitely take your time to find the most suitable accommodation in Curacao, as your decision will be based on many factors, including what type of accommodation you would like, where you would like to stay at, and during what time of the year are you going,
There are options for all types of travelers. From rental apartments for families (or a group of friends) who would like to save some money for when they return home, to lavish hotels that are filled with all of the luxuries…just like in the movies!
Curacao is also known for having all-inclusive hotels and resorts, in case you would like to sit down and enjoy your piña colada without having to worry about anything else. Sounds ideal, right?
Just remember that the cost of staying at hotels and resorts varies almost daily. This is why depending on when you wish to go to the island, you will find better deals. But, in case you were wondering, rates usually start at USD $100 per night in the low season.
Eating out in Curacao
Eating out is always on the top whenever I make my budget before I travel. I am always looking forward to enjoying a new type of food, learning about a different culture through their cuisine, and of course, eating diverse things means I will also have something to talk about whenever I get back home!
This is why I find Curacao to be so interesting. There are plenty of exotic food choices for you to choose, from savory local dishes to restaurants that serve food from places like Thailand, you will surely find a nice restaurant to eat when you are holidaying on this island.
The cheapest meals on this Caribbean island will cost around USD $6, and you will find them at the locally-owned restaurants. There are also plenty of chain restaurants from the USA.
However, if you are looking into something more special, then there are expensive restaurants where you can expect a meal to cost more than USD $60 per person.
Keep in mind that you must tip whenever you go to a restaurant, whether it is a fancy one or not. This is not a mandatory thing, but it is always nice to leave something to your waitress, especially if they did a good job.
Getting around on the island
Most travelers will look into ways of transportation on Curacao and will definitely have a ‘’oh-oh’’ moment whenever they read about the deficiencies of public transport on the island.
Even though public transportation is inexpensive (USD $1 or less) you can’t rely on them 100%. There is, however, a free ferry service that even though it has limited destinations, it is always a good option to travel around.
You can also go around in a taxi, but they are usually very expensive. Taxi fares usually start at USD $8 and can be expected to go up to USD $40, depending on where you are heading.
There is the option of renting a car, which is probably what most travelers choose. This will give you an independent sense of adventure, but you are also free to go and come whenever you want.
You can get to know Curacao and its surroundings at your own pace. Prices start at USD $30 per day, up to USD $80. You can also find out how much it will cost you to rent a car for a week, as you may be able to save some money this way.
Shopping around the island
If you want to forget about home, if you want to feel better about yourself, or if you would like to buy a souvenir for your colleagues, then why not go shopping? Curacao is known for having a duty-free shopping experience.
In fact, many travelers know this and take advantage of it by not taking any clothes to the island! This is real! They will actually build up a new wardrobe with everything they buy on this Caribbean island.
And what will you be able to find here? Everything! From Dutch cheeses to wooden shoes, to branded jewelry and clothes, you name it, Curacao has it.
And because it’s duty-free, this means you will probably pay less money than if you were to buy the same thing back in your home country. You should definitely make a space on your budget for a shopping spree.
Even if you don’t get anything that has been made by famous designers, you probably will still find little souvenirs or a liquor you will like to take home, for a very good price.
Do keep in mind though, that you may be expected to pay some duty taxes whenever you return home, so always check on your country’s regulations.
Also, whenever you are making your budget to go on holiday, think about what you like to do the most, and what will make your time away to be more special. Some people may enjoy shopping, while others may love going to a museum!
It is always up to you to find ways of spending your money but above all, it is up to you to find ways of making your trip come alive and be unique! Enjoy Curacao, is definitely worth it!
