Aruba

Aruba

Aruba offers stunning white-sand beaches and clear turquoise waters, perfect for relaxation and water sports. Its constant trade winds make it a popular destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing, while the vibrant culture and diverse culinary scene add to its appeal.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay7 days
Budget$150/day
Mid-range$200/day
Luxury$600/day

Known For

CaribbeanLesser AntillesOranjestadABC Islands

🇦🇼 Country Information: Aruba

CapitalOranjestad
CurrencyAruban florin (Æ’)
LanguagePapiamento , Dutch, English, Spanish
Phone Code+297
Electricity127V (Type A, B, F)
Tap WaterSafe to drink

Tipping

  • Tipping is customary in restaurants (15
  • 20% if service charge isn't included), for taxi drivers (10
  • 15%), and for hotel staff (a few dollars per day for housekeeping)

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are widely available, especially in tourist areas
  • Credit cards are widely accepted
  • It is good to bring some US dollars cash for smaller purchases and tips
  • No black market for cash

Cultural Norms

  • Casual dress is common, but swimwear should be confined to beaches and pools
  • Respect local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting religious sites
  • "Island time" is a common concept, so be prepared for a relaxed pace

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. Aruba is generally welcoming to LGBTQ+ visitors, and same-sex marriage performed abroad is recognized, though not performed domestically.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • Legal drinking age is 18
  • Drug laws are strict, including for marijuana, and possession can lead to severe penalties

Special Laws

  • It is illegal to wear camouflage clothing
  • Nudity in public is prohibited
  • Littering is strictly enforced and can result in fines

Common Phrases

NoNo (noh)
YesSi (see)
HelloBon dia (bon dee-ah)
PleasePor fabor (por fah-bor)
Thank youMasha danki (mah-sha dahn-kee)

Climate

Climate Zone: Tropical Savanna

Best Time to Visit

Getting There

- Fly directly to Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA) from major North American and European cities

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

Staying Connected

Local Cuisine

Keshi Yena must_try

Often considered Aruba's national dish, this hearty, cheesy casserole is traditionally made with a whole cheese shell stuffed with spiced meat (usuall

Pastechi street_food

These are crescent-shaped, deep-fried pastries filled with various savory fillings such as cheese, beef, chicken, or seafood. They are a popular break

Pan Bati regional_speciality

Meaning 'beaten bread,' this is a slightly sweet, fluffy Aruban cornbread pancake made from corn and wheat flour. It is typically served as a side dis

Funchi regional_speciality

A side dish similar to Italian polenta, made from cornmeal, served either as a soft accompaniment to stews or cooled, cut into strips, and fried. The

Stoba (Goat/Beef Stew) regional_speciality

A traditional, slow-cooked stew, often made with goat (Cabrito Stoba) or beef, flavored with local spices and sometimes ingredients like concomber (a

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Overwater Dining at Aruba Ocean Villas (Restaurant) Dining
Book 1–3 months in advance

This is one of the few overwater dining experiences in Aruba, making it extremely popular and limited in capacity, especially for sunset slots.

Fun Facts

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