Orient Beach Forum
http://orientbeachforum.com/Topic/Posts/8093?pagenum=1
May 21 2024 13:19
Topic
DevilMoc
Currency
June 27 2017 12:16
My recollection of being on the Island for one day cruise stops was that there was no problem using U.S. currency. However, as we will be staying for a week this time do you all see any need/advantage in exchanging some dollars for Euros? My preference is to keep it simple and just use dollars if I pay in cash, but curious what your thoughts and experiences are?
Replies ...
jam77
June 27 2017 12:58
We have been visiting the Island regularly for over 25 years and have always used US currency on both the Dutch and French sides without problem. In fact it often seems to be the preferred currency especially on the Dutch side.
biturbo
June 27 2017 14:10
The current rate exchange is 1 Euro = $1.12, and many places give you an even better rate - some even 1 = 1. The difference, to most, isn't worth the trouble. If you're making a major purchase on the French side, use a CC that doesn't charge a conversion fee, such as Cap 1 Visa.
"But then I think about the good times, down in the Caribbean sunshine..." (J.B.)
sxmbeacher
June 27 2017 17:59
US currency, no problem. A first mate on an excursion we were on, said he hadn't seen a Guilder (dutch money) in years!
Life's a beach!
DevilMoc
June 27 2017 18:23
Thanks everyone, I appreciate the insight. I will happily stay with U.S. currency.
bc9913
June 27 2017 18:43
The Dutch switched to the Euro. The Guilder currency that is supposed to be the official currency of the Dutch side of the island is unique to a few territories, so it's pretty much abandoned. The French side is actually legally France and uses the Euro officially, but dollars are fine.
pafreeandeasy
June 28 2017 15:58
Are there ATMs at the airport or resorts (Esmeralda) where we can withdraw Euros?
bc9913
June 29 2017 16:52
The airport is on the Dutch side, so the ATMs likely dispense dollars. Last time I was at Club O, I asked about ATMs near the beach and was told there were none. (probably a good idea, from the stories about ATM fraud on the island). I would look for an actual bank ATM on the French side if you really want Euros. Since US dollars are accepted anywhere on the island sometimes at a 1:1 exchange rate, I don't see the point of hunting down Euros.
SXM-Beachlover
July 04 2017 08:52
There are ATM's by the Help U Save near the road to the Grand Case Airport. I keep Euros and Dollars for whatever the merchant gives the best rate. A lot of places give really bad dollar to euro exchanges.
Funbob
July 04 2017 20:05
I prefer going right to one of the banks in Philipsburg. Less chance of having your card hacked. They give a choice of currency which includes dollars.