# Ottawa Travellers: What You Need to Know About the Latest Curaçao Advisory
Planning a Caribbean getaway from Ottawa to the stunning shores of Curaçao? Before you pack your sunscreen and snorkel gear, there’s important information you should know. The Government of Canada updated its travel advisory for Curaçao on April 27, 2026, and while the news is generally positive, understanding what it means for your trip is essential for safe travels.
## What the Advisory Says
Canada maintains a **Level 1 advisory for Curaçao — Take Normal Security Precautions**. This is the lowest risk level, meaning you can travel with standard safety awareness rather than heightened concerns. The latest update actually removed the COVID-19 travel health notice, signaling a return to more typical travel conditions. For Ottawa travellers, this means Curaçao remains an accessible and relatively low-risk Caribbean destination.
## Safety Considerations You Should Know
While the risk level is reassuring, staying informed helps you travel smarter. Petty theft remains the primary concern, particularly pickpocketing and bag snatching in tourist areas. These incidents spike during Carnival season (January through March) when crowds are largest. Keep valuables secured, never leave belongings unattended on beaches, and choose accommodations with strong security measures.
Violent crime exists at low levels but does occur, including armed robberies and assaults. The standard advice applies: avoid isolated beaches after sunset, stick to well-populated areas at night, and keep windows and doors locked at your lodging.
Water safety deserves attention too. Rescue services may not match Canadian standards, so verify equipment quality before diving, jet skiing, or engaging in water sports. Check with local authorities about which beaches have adequate safety measures.
## Preparing for Your Trip: Beyond Booking Flights
Smart travel preparation extends well beyond finding good airfare. A pre-travel health consultation should be part of every international trip plan, even to destinations with lower risk levels. Routine vaccinations should be current, and depending on your activities and itinerary, additional vaccines like Hepatitis A and Typhoid may be recommended.
Ottawa travellers have the advantage of accessing expert travel health advice right here at home. A consultation with a travel health specialist helps you understand which immunizations you need, what medications to pack (including anti-diarrheal treatments and sun protection advice), and how to assemble a proper medical kit for Caribbean travel.
Don’t overlook travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation — standard health coverage from Ontario often provides limited or no coverage outside Canada.
## Ready for Paradise
Curaçao offers Ottawa residents a beautiful escape with warm waters, rich culture, and now, updated travel guidance that confirms its status as a safe destination. With proper preparation, including a travel health consultation, you’ll be ready to enjoy everything this Dutch Caribbean island offers.
Travelling to Curaçao? Before you go, speak with one of our ISTM-certified travel health physicians – virtually, 7 days a week. A pre-travel consultation covers vaccines, medications, and destination-specific health risks. Book your virtual consultation at Orleans Travel Clinic Pharmacy.