Wondering if I need cash for taxis in Saint Kitts and Nevis or if I can just pay with card or app like in other countries?
From my time in Saint Kitts, taxis were cash-only. The drivers I met wanted either US dollars or Eastern Caribbean dollars, and no one mentioned card. It’s very straightforward: negotiate the fare, then hand over cash at the end. Since it’s a small island setup, there are no ride apps to help with digital payments. Cash is just how things are done here. Keep US dollars ready-they’re accepted everywhere, including taxis, without any issues.
Thought I’d be out of luck without Uber-then realized the island’s too chill for that. All taxis I flagged down were cash-only. One driver even joked, “plastic scares me.” I started with XCD 50 and topped up whenever needed. If you’re visiting beaches or going between towns, just have some local money and you’ll avoid awkward stops.
Was living in Frigate Bay and used taxis a few times-cash-only yes, but settled quickly. I arranged most rides online via a local cab service, paid card through them-but random street cabs always expected bills. No taxi apps unless paid through agencies. With just XCD 150 in your pocket you should be okay for daily rides.
Booked a transfer through my guesthouse and paid by card-those worked fine. But flagging down a random taxi on the road? They wanted cash only. One driver said his terminal was “not working properly.” I ended up carrying XCD 200 in notes to cover taxi rides and tips. Apps aren’t big here, so cash is your best friend for transit.
Hopped in a taxi from the airport and tried pulling out my card-driver laughed and said “no machine.” Every street taxi I used was cash-only. No Uber or Bolt here, unless you pre-book a private ride via your hotel. Best to have XCD 100-150 cash for rides-I did, and never had to worry. It’s a relaxed island vibe, but definitely bring bills.