Currency

The local currency of St. Vincent and the Grenadines is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (XCD) commonly referred to as EC. Notes are issued in denominations of $100, $50, $20, $10, and $5. Coins are issued in denominations of $1.00 and $0.25, $0.10, $0.05, $0.02, and $0.01 cent. The exchange rate is tied to the US dollar at a rate of EC$2.70. (XCD is the currency reference code used at commercial banks). Other than the Eastern Caribbean dollar, the US dollar is also accepted in all hotels and some shops.

Credit Cards

Major credit cards are widely accepted in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Business Hours

Banking hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday to Thursday with extended hours to 5 p.m. on Friday. All banks handle travellers' cheques and change most foreign currencies. Passports are required when cashing travellers' cheques. A nominal commission may be charged. For convenience, ATM / ABM machines are open round-the-clock.

Government offices are generally open from 8:00 a.m. – 4:15 p.m., Monday to Friday, but closed from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. for lunch.

Shops are generally open from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday to Friday, and 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. on Saturdays. Supermarkets and shopping centers are usually open from 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Airport Tax

A Passenger Departure Tax of EC$40.00 must be paid at immigration (airport) when leaving St. Vincent and the Grenadines by air. Passengers who are in transit for less than 24 hours may leave the airport without having to pay the departure tax.

Drinking Water

It is perfectly safe to drink water straight from the tap in St. Vincent. However, for those who prefer bottled mineral water, local supermarkets and grocers always have ample stocks.

Illegal Drugs

Illegal drugs are viewed seriously in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Visitors need to be aware that there are severe penalties, including long jail terms for possession if illegal drugs like Cannabis (marijuana, weed or ganja) or crack cocaine. NO attempts should be made to import or export even small quantities for “personal use”. If you carry prescription drugs, keep them in their original container, clearly labeled with the doctor’s name, pharmacy, and contents.

Electricity

St. Vincent and the Grenadines has a reliable supply of electricity. Electricity is generally 220/240 volts AC, 50 cycles per second except for Petit St. Vincent which has 110 volts AC, 60 cycles per sec. Appliances rated at 110 volts (US standard) normally work satisfactorily with a transformer. Most hotels have 110 volts shaver outlets and will provide transformers to visitors on request. The standard electrical plug has 3 rectangular pins so remember to pack an adapter.

Telecommunications

St. Vincent and the Grenadines has a state of the art fibre optic digital telephone system. Internet, Boat phone, Cellular service, telex, telegraph and facsimile access are also available. The international area code is 784 followed by the local seven-digit number. Phone cards are available through outlets island-wide as are Phone-card booths. International Direct dialing (IDD) service is available to most destinations in the world and International calls can be made using your credit card (Master card, Visa and Discover are accepted) by dialing the operator.

Safety in SVG

Personal Safety:
Travellers throughout the world must be concerned about their personal safety and security when visiting any destination of their choice. St. Vincent and the Grenadines is no exception. You need to exercise the same amount of caution for your personal safety as you would do any where. Please do not put yourself in any unnecessary risks.

As a visitor to our islands, you will find that individuals may offer to sell you local hand-crafts, t-shirts, etc. Do not be surprise as this practice is typical in any tourist destination that you may visit. If you are interested in making a purchase do so, but if not, just say so in a polite and pleasant manner.

Walking the streets of the islands could be a rewarding experience. Again you are to be as prudent as you would in any unfamiliar country. Do no venture out at night in unlit areas or wonder off into areas where you do not feel comfortable. Do no carry expensive jewelry, cash, electronics to the beach and for your own peace of mind, do not leave your personal belonging unattended.

Beaches do not have lifeguards. Exercise extreme caution when swimming. Drowning is one of the leading causes of death for visitors in SVG, and the Caribbean in general.

Mosquito and Sand fly bites:
Not a major problem but people with sensitive skin may be bothered. There are many repellents you can use to prevent bites, however, creams are available in pharmacies to relieve itching and promote healing if required. For your own peace of mind, we recommend that you bring along repellents of your choice to use at bedtime and at the beach.

What to Wear

The tropical weather makes light summer clothing, made from natural fabrics like cotton, best for everyday wear. Casual dress is acceptable for most situations and occasions but some establishments may require a more semi-formal dress code (elegantly casual attire). It is always advisable to check beforehand on dress regulations, if any. Bathing suits should not be worn in the streets or stores.

Marriage Licences

Non-Vincentians wishing to be married in St. Vincent and the Grenadines must be resident here for a minimum of one (1) day before a Marriage Ceremony (civil or church) can take place. A special licence (a Governor General’s licence) can be obtained from the Ministry of Justice for a minimum fee. This licence is valid for three months only.

An ordinary licence can be obtained from the Registrar for a small fee, but a notice of the ceremony must be published in the Registry for a minimum of seven days. (Visit a Wedding Consultant for more details.)

Pet Regulations

No pets from North and South America, Europe, Africa and Asia are allowed into St. Vincent and the Grenadines unless they have been in a six-month quarantine. They can come aboard yachts, but must remain onboard at all times. Pets are allowed from the UK, New Zealand and Australia on conditions that a health certificate is presented.