Genvisec advises that all business or leisure travel can continue to Saint Eustatius in the BES islands.

 

Crime

 

Most visits to the BES Islands are trouble-free. However, petty theft and street crime is a concern. There is violent crime amongst members of the illegal drugs world, but this rarely affects tourists. The main tourist areas are generally safe, but you should take normal precautions. Avoid remote areas at night. Don’t take valuables to the beach. Make sure purses and handbags are closed and not easy to snatch.

 

The BES islands continue to be used to smuggle illegal drugs from South America to Europe and North America. You should have a heightened sense of awareness of this problem and never leave bags unattended. Under no circumstances should you discuss or agree to carry a package for anyone. Some airports have installed body scanners and it is possible you may need to have a scan. Dutch authorities generally screen all baggage and passengers from the Dutch Caribbean.

 

Local travel

 

When taking a taxi, always check that it is a registered one and negotiate the price before taking the ride. Most taxis do not have meters.

 

Road travel

 

Traffic drives on the right. Main road conditions are relatively good, but roads can become slippery when wet.

 

Political situation

 

On 10 October 2010 the Netherlands Antilles were dissolved and Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba (now known as the BES islands) became special municipalities of the Netherlands. Bonaire lies within 50 miles of Venezuela, whilst St Eustatius (Statia) and Saba are some 600 miles to the north east, about 100 miles east of Puerto Rico.

 

Health

 

Contact your doctor around 8 weeks before your trip to check whether you need any vaccinations or other preventive measures. 

 

The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is not valid. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

 

If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 911 and ask for an ambulance. You should contact your insurance/medical assistance company promptly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment.

 

Money

Since 1 January 2011 the local currency is the US Dollar.

 

ATM machines (Maestro/Cirrus) are situated throughout the islands. Major credit cards are accepted in most tourist establishments.

 

Local laws and customs

By Dutch law, you must always carry your ID. You should have a copy of your passport with you at all times. Local laws are similar to Dutch law.

 

Language

 

Dutch, Papiamento, Spanish and English are spoken in the BES Islands with Dutch being the official language. In Bonaire the Creole language, Papiamento (a mixture of Spanish, Dutch, Portuguese, English and French), is widely spoken. English is mostly used in Saba and St. Eustatius.

 

Passport validity

 

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of six months from the date of entry into Bonaire, St Eustatius and Saba.

 

Yellow fever

 

Yellow Fever vaccination is required for travellers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.

 

 

 

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