Aruba is one of the ABC islands of the Caribbean. It is dry almost all the time and is perfect for going to the beach of which there are many and excellent. Brightly painted homes and towns and architecture that reminds one of Amsterdam, makes the island very quaint and charming. The colorful clothing of the people, the pretty landscape and the almost always blue sky combine to make Aruba a wonderful place to vacation.
Capital: Oranjestad
Population: 89,000
Area: 108,000
Language: The locals speak Papiamento which is a rich blend of Dutch, Spanish, French, Portuguese, and a little Amerindian and English. Needless to say there will be no point in eavesdropping on their conversations, but they will understand you for the islanders will get by in all of those languages quite well.
Time: + 1 hour from New York
Electricity: 110 volts AC / 60 Hz same as US
Geography: Aruba is a desert island which is covered in cactus and scrub brush and small wind swept trees. The Divi Divi Tree is a tree which grows here which looks as if the wind has sculpted it - which it has. Tradewinds blow all year.
International Airport
Oranjestad - Queen Beatrix International Airport is about 8 minutes from town. Taxis are plentiful
Tipping: If no service charge is included you should leave a 10-15% tip. Hotels already have the service charge included.
Shopping: Shops are open from 8 am to 6 pm Monday through Friday and in the morning on Saturdays. Some shops do close for the lunch hour. Store are usually closed on Sundays. Things to buy include high quality leather goods, designer clothing, jewelry and pottery. Goods here are usually of very high quality.
Food and Drink: The Netherland's popular "Ricetable" (which is really from Indonesia) is an excellent dish for those with a hearty appetite. It contains rice and over 40 different garnishes ranging from meats to exotic vegetables and sauces. Another specialty to be found in Aruba is "Keshi Yena" which is stuffed Edam cheese. There are many international restaurants to be found featuring foods from China, France and also fast food emporiums from North America.
Social: There are plenty of casinos and discos to keep even the most active very busy. The people are of mixed racial background and get along well together. It is important to dress modestly and not wear beachwear at any other place than the beach.
Money and Banks
Banking: Banking hours are Monday to Friday 8 am to 4 pm. There are no weekend hours.
Currency: The Aruban Florin
Money Exchange: Banking hours are Monday to Friday 8 am to 4 pm. There are no weekend hours.
Credit cards: Visa, Master Card, American Express and Diners Club.
Climate
Aruba is sunny and exceptionally dry. It hardly ever rains and has an average rainfall of 20 inches. The average temperature is 82F. Aruba is outside of the hurricane belt. Tradewinds blow throughout the year. | 