Traveling to Aruba: The Ultimate Guide

Have you already packed your bags for the sun-drenched shores of Aruba?

We know you’re already picturing yourself on its white sand beaches. But first, it’s imperative to arm yourself with essential information for a stress-free and enjoyable holiday.

Being well-informed, such as understanding local customs to weather patterns, can greatly enhance your travel experience on this island.

We will equip you with key insights on navigating Aruba’s unique landscape so you can fully immerse in its beauty and discover why it is One Happy Island.

Aruba sits in the Caribbean Sea, part of the Lesser Antilles, north of Venezuela. This location is special because it’s outside the hurricane belt which means fewer storms to worry about during your visit.

The island position provides unique experiences not found elsewhere in the Caribbean and offers a mix of beautiful beaches and desert landscapes.

You’ll love Aruba for its warm, sunny weather all year round. The temperatures usually stay between 26°C and 32°C (79°F to 90°F). Though it’s mostly dry, expect short showers now and then.

Aruba is perfect for beach days any time you visit but remember to pack sunscreen and light clothing to enjoy the outdoors comfortably.

People speak Dutch and Papiamento officially but many locals also speak English well.

You can use the local currency, Aruban florin (AWG), for shopping or dining out. However, to make transactions easy for tourists, US dollars are accepted almost everywhere.

Before arriving in Aruba:

• Make sure your passport is valid.
• For stays of less than 30 days in Aruba (for most countries), no visa is required.
• Upon arrival, be prepared for officials to inquire about your return ticket and accommodation details.

Aruba is a beautiful destination year-round. During peak season, January to March, the island buzzes with energy but also sees higher prices and crowds. That is why it is good to plan the best time to visit Aruba to enhance your island experience.

For those seeking quieter moments, April to August marks the off-peak season, when you’ll enjoy fewer people and lower costs.

If you’re after unique cultural experiences, consider visiting during the Carnival season in late January to early February.

Your stay in Aruba can range from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hotels depending on your preference. Plus, there are also many vacation rentals spread across the island.

If you plan to travel during peak season, I suggest you book early to ensure you get your preferred accommodation at a better rate.

If you’re on a tight budget, I’d recommend eating outside of hotel areas. Many local spots offer delicious meals at lower prices.

You may also consider looking into package deals for activities and tours to save you money compared to booking separately. Using public transport over taxis gives you a local view of Aruba and significantly cuts down on expenses.

Aruba is a beautiful destination, but like any place, staying safe is important. Always stick to well-lit, populated areas at night to reduce the risk of getting lost or encountering trouble.

For your valuables, use hotel safes. They are there for a reason and can protect your items from theft. When enjoying Aruba’s beaches, be cautious when swimming and always pay attention to local warnings about currents or jellyfish.

The sun in Aruba is stronger than many travelers expect. Because of this, I suggest you use sunscreen regularly to avoid burns or heat-related illnesses. It’s easy to get caught up in the fun and forget about UV rays until it’s too late.

Another top travel tip is to use bottled or filtered water to help prevent stomach issues that can come from unfamiliar bacteria in water.

Most importantly, make sure to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. This way, you’re prepared for any health issues without worrying about costs.

Learn basic Papiamento greetings to show respect for the local culture. Luckily, English is widely understood here, so communication rarely poses an issue for travelers. Wi-Fi availability is good. Most hotels and cafes offer it for free, making it easy to stay connected.

In Aruba, when you’re meeting someone for the first time, a handshake is typical. It’s a friendly and respectful way to say hello. Meanwhile, if you’re meeting close friends or relatives, they might greet you with a kiss on the cheek instead.

It’s also polite to use titles like Mr., Mrs., or Dr., followed by the person’s surname when you first meet them to show respect.

Tipping is not mandatory since your bill in restaurants and hotels will include a service charge. For this reason, you don’t have to tip extra unless you want to show appreciation for great service.

In cases where there’s no service charge in your restaurant bill, it’s good practice to tip 10-15% of your total bill amount.

Taxi drivers and hotel staff also appreciate small tips for their services.

Since Aruba is accessible through direct flights from major US and European cities, you can often find a flight that will take you to this island paradise.

For people who enjoy the ocean, arriving by cruise ship is a common choice. These ships often stop at the Oranjestad harbor.

Let me remind you that if you’re traveling during peak seasons, it’s important to reconfirm your flights. Doing this will make sure your seat is secured for a smooth start to your trip.

Once you’ve arrived, exploring Aruba is easy. There are several options to choose from. For example, one affordable way is to use public buses that run efficiently and cover most major tourist spots.

The other option is readily available taxis, but remember two things: make sure they’re licensed and agree on the fare before starting your journey. Also, instruct the taxi driver to use the meter. For a more scenic route, consider renting bicycles. It’s a fun way to see the local area up close.

If you prefer driving around, you’ll need a valid driver’s license. Having an international driving permit isn’t necessary but could be helpful. How? It can make driving in foreign countries safer, more convenient, and legally compliant.

Here are other things to take into consideration:

• Remember to drive on the right side of the road.
• Familiarize yourself with local traffic laws to avoid any issues.
• Lastly, renting insurance can give you peace of mind.

Driving in Aruba offers a fantastic way to explore the island’s breathtaking landscapes. However, it comes with the responsibility of following local driving laws.

• Drive on the Right

In Aruba, vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road.

• Speed Limits

Speed limits are strictly enforced in Aruba.

• 30-50 km/h (about 18-31 mph) – urban areas
• 60-80 km/h (about 37-50 mph) – highways

• Seat Belts and Child Safety

Seat belt use is mandatory for all vehicle occupants, regardless of where they are seated. Children under 12 must either sit in the back seat or use an appropriate child safety seat.

• Alcohol and Driving

Aruba has strict laws regarding drinking and driving. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.05%. It’s best to avoid drinking altogether if you plan on driving.

• Mobile Phones

Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is prohibited. Use a hands-free system to make or receive calls on the road.

An International Driving Permit in Aruba is not strictly required, as mentioned above. However, it is strongly recommended for all visitors planning to drive.

The IDP is a document that translates your national driving license into several languages. This includes English, which can be particularly useful in Aruba since the island’s official languages are Dutch and Papiamento.

Having an IDP can simplify the car rental process and can help communicate with local authorities, thus ensuring an overall smoother experience.

Eagle Beach and Palm Beach are some of the top destinations for those who love the sun and probably the best places to visit in Aruba. Water sports enthusiasts will find plenty to do here. Another must-visit is the Arikok National Park which has unique landscapes and hiking trails.

If you’re looking for an adventure away from the crowded beaches, the Natural Pool is the perfect spot for you. You can reach it on foot, on horseback, or on a 4×4 tour.

If you’re a history buff, you may want to visit Fort Zoutman Historical Museum which tells the story of Aruba’s colonial past, and the Alto Vista Chapel which offers peace and stunning views. Trust me, the visit is all worth it.

Aruba’s Aloe Factory shows how important aloe is to local heritage. You’ll learn something new here about the island’s culture.

Snorkeling and scuba diving in Aruba should be part of your list of the best things to do in Aruba. Windsurfing and kitesurfing are also popular because of consistent trade winds that make conditions ideal. For those seeking thrills, ATV tours provide an adrenaline-pumping way to explore Aruba’s rugged terrain.

Aruba has a vibrant dining scene. Fresh seafood, caught daily, rules the menus at many restaurants. You should definitely try dishes featuring conch or red snapper for a taste of the ocean’s bounty.

Another local favorite is Keshi Yena, a delightful dish that involves cheese stuffed with meat and spices. For a quick bite, grab some pastechis. These are fried pastries perfect for any time of day and come with various savory fillings.

Dining etiquette mirrors the island’s welcoming spirit but maintains certain formalities.

• Always wait to be seated in a restaurant unless it indicates self-service.
• Finishing everything on your plate is considered polite as a nod to the chef or host’s efforts in preparing your meal.
• Tipping might initially seem confusing since practices vary. Always check if a service charge is included in your bill before adding extra. However, you may tip extra if you want to show appreciation for great service.

No culinary exploration in Aruba would be complete without sampling some must-try local dishes.

• Stoba, a hearty stew made with either goat meat or beef, offers comforting flavors that reflect the island’s melting pot culture.
• Don’t miss out on trying pan bati, an Aruban flatbread that can be sweet or savory according to preference.
• Lastly, give Aruba’s version of ceviche a go – it’s fresh, tangy, and delicious.

After enjoying the local cuisine, explore Oranjestad’s markets where you’ll find fresh produce and artisan crafts.

The San Nicolas market is another must-visit. Its street art brightens the town, especially on Thursday nights.

Flea markets across Aruba offer unique souvenirs. Look for one-of-a-kind handmade items.

Aruba has special gifts to take home. Aloe-based products showcase its farming heritage and they’re good for your skin, too.

Dutch Delftware ceramics which make elegant decorations, pay homage to Aruba’s colonial past.

Locally made jewelry with rare larimar stones is beautiful.

Bargaining is part of shopping at flea markets but not in retail stores. Always be respectful when negotiating prices.

Know the value of what you want to buy before offering a price to ensure fair deals for both parties.

You’re all set to immerse yourself in Aruba’s lively culture and stunning scenery. As you map out your adventure, keep these tips close and look forward to an extraordinary trip.

Honoring local traditions and caring for the environment will make your visit even more rewarding. This helps preserve the beauty of this incredible island.

Why not fully embrace Aruba’s allure? Consider renting a car and securing an International Driving Permit to discover all the island’s offerings.

Are you ready for an unforgettable Aruba vacation? Pack your essentials and gear up for a happy holiday in One Happy Island!