Travelling to Curaçao & Sint Maarten? 

Get the best Caribbean guilder rates online. 

At Manor FX, we offer excellent rates for the Caribbean guilder (XCG), ensuring you get more travel money to enjoy your holiday to the fullest.

Changing your GBP to XCG is simple, fast, and secure with our online service. 

You get great value, convenience, and peace of mind when you order your Caribbean guilder online.

Curaçao & Sint Maarten travel money 

Here’s what you need to know about cash and card payments in the Dutch Antilles after the phase-out of the Netherlands Antillean guilder and the introduction of the Caribbean guilder.

What is the new currency in the Caribbean?

The Caribbean guilder officially replaced the Netherlands Antillean guilder on March 31, 2025. 

Issued by the Centrale Bank van Curaçao en Sint Maarten, this new currency ensures a unified monetary system for both autonomous countries within the Dutch Caribbean.

The official currency code for the Caribbean guilder is XCG, and the currency symbol for Caribbean guilder is ƒ. 

Where can I buy the Caribbean guilder?

Manor FX is your go-to for XCG currency exchange.

Easily buy Caribbean guilders from us. Avoid expensive airport exchanges and choose a more convenient, cost-effective option. 

We offer the best Caribbean guilder exchange rate

Should you exchange money before travelling to Curaçao and Sint Maarten? 

Absolutely. It’s smart to exchange some GBP to Caribbean guilders (XCG) before you go. 

Having cash ready for essentials like transport and meals is essential, especially if you arrive when banks are closed.

Get the most from your XCG currency conversion with Manor FX today. 

What’s the best currency to take to Curaçao and Sint Maarten?

The Caribbean guilder (XCG), the official currency, is your best choice. 

The Netherlands Antillean guilder was replaced on March 31, 2025.

While some places accept US dollars, using Curaçao money and Sint Maarten money – XCG ensures better value for everyday expenses. 

Stick to the local currency (XCG money) to avoid unfavourable exchange rates.

Can I use USD in Curaçao and Sint Maarten?

Yes, US dollars (USD) are widely accepted as currency in Curaçao & Sint Maarten, especially in hotels, restaurants, and tourist-focused businesses. 

Should I bring euros to Curaçao and Sint Maarten?

No, it’s better to bring US dollars (USD) than euros to Curaçao & St Maarten. 

While some places may accept euros, they are not widely used, and exchange rates may be unfavourable. 

Can you use credit or debit cards in Curaçao and Sint Maarten?

Yes, cards are accepted in major tourist spots, but cash is king. Using Curaçao currency and currency of Sint Marteen is ideal.

VISA and Mastercard are generally accepted, but American Express is less widely used, so check before relying on it.

To avoid issues, tell your bank about your travel plans beforehand. 

Cash vs credit cards in Curaçao and Sint Maarten

Cash is essential, especially in small towns and markets.

While major hotels and restaurants vending and payment machines in tourist hubs often accept cards, cash remains essential for smaller merchants, taxis, and markets.

Minimising ATM fees in Curaçao and Sint Maarten

To cut down on ATM charges, here are some handy tips:

• Use ATMs from major local banks.
• Withdraw larger amounts less often.
• Check for fee-free bank partnerships.

Are Curaçao and Sint Maarten budget-friendly?

The Netherlands Antilles can fit any budget, offering both affordable and luxury options. Your spending will depend on where you stay, eat, and what you do. 

While tourist spots might be pricier, there are many affordable choices – plan and budget based on your preferences.

How much cash should I bring to Curaçao and Sint Maarten?

The amount of cash to bring to Curaçao & Sint Maarten depends on your travel style. 

• Budget travel: £39–£58 (GBP) or 90–135 XCG per day (basic meals, public transport, budget stays).
• Mid-range travel: £77–£155 (GBP) or 180–360 XCG daily (restaurant meals, car rental, excursions, comfortable stays).
• Luxury travel: £232+ (GBP) or 540+ XCG daily (fine dining, private tours, high-end hotels, shopping).

Tipping in the Netherlands Antilles

Tipping is customary. In restaurants, 10% is standard, while hotels may expect tips ranging from 500 to 1,000 XCG. 

Caribbean guilder currency

The Central Bank van Curaçao en Sint Maarten (CBCS) led the transition to the Caribbean guilder, ensuring a seamless shift from the Netherlands Antillean guilder to unite Sint Maarten and Curaçao in a shared monetary union.   

The new banknotes and coins were introduced on March 31, 2025, and for the first three months, both the ANG and XCG will circulate together to ease the transition.  

This new Caribbean guilder currency modernises the monetary system, enhances cash payments, and ensures a secure and stable financial environment for residents, businesses, and visitors.  

Caribbean guilder banknotes 

The new Dutch Caribbean guilder banknotes feature a design theme inspired by the vibrant marine life and historical and cultural landmarks of Curaçao & Sint Maarten. 

All XCG banknotes denominations highlight unique aspects of the region, symbolising its rich biodiversity and heritage.   

The new Caribbean guilder banknotes are available in the following denominations: 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 XCG.

These sustainable banknotes, developed in collaboration with Crane Currency, incorporate advanced security features such as watermarks, security threads, and colour-shifting ink to ensure authenticity and durability.

The new Caribbean guilder banknotes’ durability means they’ll last longer. This ensures there’ll be fewer banknotes destroyed and that fewer banknotes will need to be produced. 

Caribbean guilder coins 

​​The Caribbean guilder coins, minted by the Royal Canadian Mint, come in the following denominations:

• 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 cents 
• 1 and 5 guilders

Curaçao and Sint Maarten currency import and export regulations:

When travelling to or from Curaçao & Sint Maarten, it’s essential to be aware of the currency import and export regulations to ensure compliance and avoid potential issues.

Importing currency:

• Curaçao & Sint Maarten: Travellers can bring in any amount of foreign currency, including the Caribbean guilder (XCG). 
• However, if you carry more than XCG 20,000 or its equivalent in other currencies, you must declare this amount to customs upon arrival.​

Exporting currency:

• Curaçao & Sint Maarten: Similarly, when departing, if you are carrying more than XCG 20,000 or its equivalent in foreign currencies, you must declare this to customs.​

Ordering XCG online

With Manor FX, ordering Caribbean guilders (XCG) online is simple and secure. We offer fast delivery and ensure you get the best XCG currency rates. 

You can also collect your XCG from our shop near Heathrow at the same great rates. For in-person exchanges, visit our store.

Selling Back XCG

Need to convert Caribbean guilders to GBP? You’re in the right place. 

We offer competitive rates for your unused XCG to GBP conversion, making it easy to exchange your leftover currency. Sell XCG here.

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