Traveling with an Amex - will I be able to use it widely in Curacaoor should I carry a backup Visa/Mastercard?
Amex usage in Curacao is pretty good at main tourist spots like Pietermaai and Mambo Beach, but it’s not as widely accepted as Visa. ATMs usually don’t dispense cash for Amex either. I’d say keep a Visa or Mastercard handy, and carry some cash for tolls, small vendors, or taxis that don’t take cards.
Curacao’s financial system favors Visa and Mastercard for day-to-day use. Amex works well for hotel bills and bigger purchases but often gets declined at smaller shops or for quick transactions. Having a backup Visa or Mastercard is essential to avoid any payment headaches.
If you’re traveling to Curacao, do bring your Amex, but don’t rely on it completely. I used Amex at some restaurants and resorts, but for payments at local convenience stores, Visa/Mastercard was needed. Also, for ATM withdrawals, Visa and Mastercard work better.
In Curacao, Amex is accepted at many of the bigger hotels, restaurants, and upscale shops, especially around Willemstad. That said, smaller vendors and local markets are more likely to take Visa or Mastercard. I always carry a backup Visa or Mastercard just in case, especially if you want to shop outside the touristy areas or avoid hassles at smaller places.