Using U.S. $'s while in port

[thelmalouise-n-thekid]

I've read were most of the shops in port will take US dollars as payment for purchases. I would assume that most/all prices posted will be in local currency, so how do you know how much an item will actually cost in US money?

 

We are going to Grand Cayman and Jamaica if that makes a difference.

[eh2zed]

In the Caribbean dual pricing on the merchandise is quite common. In many cases USD will be the sticker price. Otherwise the clerk will do the conversion on a calculator using a posted exchange rate. It depends on the island or port.

It is incumbent on you to find out the exchange rate.

[satxdiver]

In most shops in Jamaica and GC, the price will either be in US dollars and local currency or just in US dollars. Often times "USD" will be noted on the tag with the price. If you get off the tourist path, the price marked will likely be in local currency. Use your credit card sparingly particularly in Jamaica. The best way is to use only currency.

 

GC is one of the safer islands since the people for the most part have decent paying jobs and there is not nearly as many poor. Jamaica on the other hand is one of the poorest islands and the people are leading a very hard life. Not a good place to wander around on your own.

[98Charlie]

Just FYI

• $100 Jamaican is about $1.25 US.
  
• $1 Cayman is also about $1.25 US.
  

 

Here's a link to a currency converter if you're interested.

 

OTOH the $US is pretty much universal in the Caribbean ports of call. (Follow the advice on limited use of your credit card.)

 

Charlie

[cb at sea]

Be aware that GC is expensive! No "bargains" there!

And even in restaurants, things will be priced in both American and local.

[cruiserbryce]

We found GC to be quite expensive...got a nice watch but not at much of a discount...very happy with it still though:D

[thelmalouise-n-thekid]

Thank you all for the information, I hadn't even thought about them posting both prices on an item.