Quick Answer:
Bring two payment options (card + backup), keep small cash for taxis/tips/fees, and use ATMs in safe locations. Don’t assume every island is “tap-to-pay everywhere.”
1) Cash is still important
Cash is useful for:
- Taxi rides
- Small restaurants
- Port fees / departure taxes (some ferry routes)
- Tips
- Markets
Keep small bills so you’re not forced into huge tips.
2) Cards: great for hotels and bigger restaurants
Use a credit card when you can:
- Better fraud protection
- Easier refunds
- No need to carry lots of cash
If your card offers it, use no foreign transaction fee.
3) ATMs: best way to get local cash
Simple rules:
- Prefer ATMs at banks, airports, or inside malls
- Avoid sketchy standalone ATMs
- Withdraw fewer times (fees add up)
- Don’t let random strangers “help” you at the ATM
4) Currency basics (don’t overthink it)
Some islands use USD, others use local currencies (and some are pegged).
What matters for travelers:
- You’ll often see prices in one currency but get change in another
- Small businesses may prefer local currency
- Ask: “Is that USD or local?”
5) Avoid common exchange traps
- If a card terminal asks “Pay in USD?” (dynamic currency conversion), usually choose local currency for better rates.
- Exchange booths at tourist hotspots often have worse rates than banks/ATMs.
6) Safety: simple habits
- Don’t carry all your cash
- Split money between wallet + bag + hotel safe
- Have a backup card separate from your main card
Resumen en Español
Lleva tarjeta + respaldo, y algo de efectivo en billetes pequeños. Usa cajeros en bancos o lugares seguros. Cuando te pregunte el terminal, normalmente conviene pagar en moneda local para mejor tasa.
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