Additional Information

* Approximate exchange rates:

$ 1 U.S. = 2.70 Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC)
$ 1 U.S. = (approx) 5 French Franc
$ 1 U.S. = 1.98 Bahamian Dollar
$ 1 U.S. = 1.75 Netherlands Antilles Florin
$ 1 U.S. = 33 Jamaican Dollar
$ 1 U.S. = 13.25 Dominican Peso
$ 1 U.S. = 5 TT Trinidad & Tobago
$ 1 U.S. = 170 Venezuelan Bolivar

(NB: the Bolivar changes so rapidly due to rampant inflation that rates change daily- great for tourists, not so good for locals)

* The U.S. dollar is accepted readily - even sought after - throughout the Caribbean.

* Most electrical current operates on the North American 110 volt system (60 cycles), although it never hurts to carry a dual 220 plug, especially if you have any European made electrical items.

* Telephone: The main area code for the Caribbean is (809) except the French and Dutch islands, and Venezuela.

* Airport tax: Most Caribbean countries have a "departure tax" (usually about US$10) so don't spend your last few dollars in the airport gift shop.

* Accommodation: Vast and varied. The Caribbean offers a full range of accommodation for any style and budget — from some of the most luxurious villas with breathtaking cliffside scenery (for thousands of dollars per week) to little inns and villas, from family units with full kitchens to grass shacks on the beach at a little diving resort. Again, check with your travel agent.