Cash Or Credit

[Maui Jim]

Can someone help me with some info as to whether credit cards are accepted throughout the Caribbean in the small beach bars ? IE "Mr. X Shindiggity Shack" and the other beach joints. I don't know if this subject has been discussed before is why I am asking. Thanks for any input!

[Cruising Caribbean]

Can someone help me with some info as to whether credit cards are accepted throughout the Caribbean in the small beach bars ? IE "Mr. X Shindiggity Shack" and the other beach joints. I don't know if this subject has been discussed before is why I am asking. Thanks for any input!

 

I would bring some cash along, not all take plastic.

[sackman]

Can someone help me with some info as to whether credit cards are accepted throughout the Caribbean in the small beach bars ? IE "Mr. X Shindiggity Shack" and the other beach joints. I don't know if this subject has been discussed before is why I am asking. Thanks for any input!

 

Most will, but here's the catch - and it's a big one in my opinion - most of the credit card processors in Mexico & the Caribbean do not hide your credit card number and expiration date on their receipts. Meaning that when you sign the receipt, your number is there for anybody to pick up and go on line with, along with your signature. You can try to scratch the numbers off, which I've done, but often the vendors don't realize that doing so is a perfectly legal and accepted practice.

[Cruising Caribbean]

Most will, but here's the catch - and it's a big one in my opinion - most of the credit card processors in Mexico & the Caribbean do not hide your credit card number and expiration date on their receipts. Meaning that when you sign the receipt, your number is there for anybody to pick up and go on line with, along with your signature. You can try to scratch the numbers off, which I've done, but often the vendors don't realize that doing so is a perfectly legal and accepted practice.

 

Excellent point, another compelling reason to carry beer money!

[DanJ]

Yeah, I can pass on the reward points in some of those places, and just pay cash. Take small bills, as they will gladly accept your US money but won't tend to give you US change back.

[JRarey]

AMX is many places is not accepted.

 

We had to get a Mastercard for this reason to bring with us.

 

I dont like carrying lots of cash.

 

Best of cruising to you all!

 

Jan

[spongerob]

I dont like carrying lots of cash.

I understand, but remember also that when you give your card to the guy at the Shindiggity Beach Shack, you are also giving him access to your identity through a credit card. Maybe it's advisable to get a card with a low credit limit for such adventures.

[luv2travel2beaches]

Another thing to keep in mind is the exchange rate and what your credit card charges for having a international charge. Usually it is 3% or so, but check with each credit card to find out.