Caribbean travel tips

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Water

All major resorts use purified water in the restaurants and most provide bottled water in guestrooms. At some hotels it is fine to drink from the tap – if so, there will likely be a note in your room.

Electricity

Electrical outlets in the Caribbean range from 110 to 120 volts. Discuss with your travel advisor whether you need a converter or adapter at your particular destination.

Preparing for the Journey

The perfect journey starts with being prepared. That’s why we created a list of tips and reminders to help:
• Ensure your passport is signed, valid at least three months past your return date (suggested six months or longer), and your name matches your boarding pass. If you need a new passport, you may choose expedited service. Visit travel.state.gov/passport for more information.
• You only need a valid U.S. photo ID for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands; ask your travel advisor for details
• Check your flight seating and contact your travel advisor if you need to request changes
• Leave a copy of your ID and itinerary with family
• Prepare small bottles for carry-on – the TSA only allows 3.4 oz. bottles, fitting in a quart-size bag

24 Hours until Departure

• Confirm your flight’s time with your airline, and if possible, check in online, paying any baggage fees
• Call your travel advisor or airline if you have questions about check-in times (generally three hours before flight), baggage limits or other regulations
• Check against your packing list to include:

       Valid passport (details above)
       Valid driver’s license (see car rentals)
       Converter, power adapter, cell phone and charger
       Wallet, credit cards and cash (spread among multiple locations)
       Toothbrush, toothpaste, make-up, toiletries
       Layered clothing for diverse weather
       Swimsuits, sandals, sunglasses and sunscreen
       Paper and pens, magazines or reading material
       Medications and doctor information

Travel Documents

American citizens need a passport valid at least three months after their return, except for Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands, where a valid U.S. government photo ID is accepted. Dominican Republic requires a tourist card in addition to a passport which you can purchase at the airport upon arrival. Save the tourist card you receive as you’ll need it for departure. Non-U.S. citizens should ask their embassy or consulate what travel documentation is needed. Ask your travel advisor about special laws for minors traveling without both parents, if applicable.
 

Customs

Your bags will go through customs upon entry and return. Each country has its own customs laws, but generally travelers may not bring plants or produce. Upon return to the U.S. you’ll declare the goods you acquired; the duty-free exemption per traveler is usually $800, plus there are limits on importing alcohol and tobacco products. For details, visit cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel and click Know Before You Go speak with your travel advisor. Allow at least three hours to clear customs when connecting to another flight.

Transfers

If you confirmed a private transfer, please refer to your itinerary for details. For airport pickups, a driver will generally greet you outside the airport’s main exit with a Journese or supplier sign with your name on it. If your hotel provides a transfer, look for your hotel representative or resort kiosk in the arrival terminal.

Car Rentals

Present your itinerary, valid driver’s license and major
credit card to the rental desk. The driver must be 21 or older. Adding navigation and car rental insurance is recommended. Please allow sufficient time to return your car.

Hotels

Simply show your itinerary and photo ID to the front desk. Your room and taxes are prepaid, though hotels require a credit card for incidentals. The standard check-in time is 3pm and check-out is 11am. Please consult your travel advisor if you need to request early check-in, late check-out, or a day room.
 

Activities

Don’t just visit the Caribbean – fully experience it. We offer everything from snorkeling and river rafting to cultural tours and sunset cruises. Plan your activities with your travel advisor before you travel, so you can enjoy your vacation to the fullest once you arrive.
 

Cell Phones

Please contact your cell phone carrier to determine whether your cell phone service extends to the Caribbean. If you have an unlocked phone that takes a SIM card, you may be able to purchase a SIM card for use abroad.

Currency & Exchange Rates

U.S. dollars and major credit cards are widely accepted. You can obtain local currency through an ATM or exchange dollars at the airport currency exchange facility, bank or most hotels. Find the latest exchange rates at xe.com.

ATMs & Credit Cards

Contact your bank before departure for information on using your ATM and credit cards while abroad. Notify your bank of your travel dates so your cards will not be suspended due to “suspicious” charges. You may want to leave a photocopy of your cards with someone at home.