Aruba: Basic Travel Guide

Aruba

📍 Destination

Aruba is a Caribbean island paradise known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, stable year-round climate, and a welcoming culture influenced by Dutch, Latin, and indigenous traditions. Perfect for travelers seeking sun, sea, outdoor adventures, and a relaxed, safe environment.

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ℹ️ General Information

• Official Name: Country of Aruba (Constituent Country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands)

• Capital: Oranjestad

• Official Language: Dutch and Papiamento (English and Spanish widely spoken)

• Currency: Aruban Florin (AWG)

• Currency Exchange Locations: Airport, banks, hotels, and authorized exchange offices

• Main Religion: Catholicism

• Time Difference:

  • US Eastern Time: Aruba is 1 hour ahead (same during Daylight Saving)

  • UK Time: Aruba is 4–5 hours behind, depending on the season

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📄 Required Documentation

• Passport: valid for at least 3 months after the return date

• Yellow Fever International Vaccination Certificate required for travelers arriving from high-risk areas

• Mandatory Embarkation/Disembarkation (ED) Card for entry and exit: edcardaruba.aw

• Visa: U.S. & UK Citizens no visa required for stays up to 90 days

• Travel Insurance: Highly recommended

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📅 Best Time to Visit

• Climate: Dry tropical (semi-arid) – warm and sunny year-round

• Dry Season: January to September (less rain)

• Rainy Season: October to December (typically short, scattered showers)

• Best Months to Visit: April to August (pleasant weather and fewer crowds)

🎯 Tip: Avoid late December to early January to skip the holiday rush and potential showers

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🕐 Operating Hours

• Government Offices: Mon–Fri, 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM / 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM

• Banks: Mon–Fri, 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM / 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

• Shops: Mon–Sat, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM / 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM

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✈️ How to Get There

• From the US: Direct flights from major cities like New York, Miami, Atlanta, Boston, and Houston. Flight time: 3–5 hours. Airlines include American, Delta, JetBlue, United, and Southwest.

• From the UK: No direct flights. Best connections via Amsterdam (KLM) or major US hubs like Miami or New York. Total travel time: 12–15 hours.

• Airport: Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA), ~20 min from Oranjestad.

🚖 Transfers: Taxis (fixed fare ±25 AWG), private transfers, or car rentals recommended.

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💊 Health & Medication

• No required vaccines, except for travelers coming from yellow fever risk areas

• Bring any personal medications and a copy of your prescriptions

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💰 Currency and Costs

• Credit Cards: Widely accepted (Visa, Mastercard, American Express)

• Exchange Rate:

  • Approx. 1 USD ≈ 1.8 AWG

  • Approx. 1 GBP ≈ 2.3 AWG

• Tipping: Not mandatory, but 10–15% is standard in restaurants and for good service

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🧳 What to Pack

• Lightweight, breathable clothing

• Swimwear, sunhat, sunglasses, and sunscreen

• Comfortable shoes for exploring

• Insect repellent (especially for outdoor/nature tours)

• Power adapter (types A, B or F – U.S. plug types are standard)

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🏨 Where to Stay

• Luxury: Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort

• Modern & Central: Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino

• Family-Friendly: Holiday Inn Resort Aruba

• Great Value: Aruba Blue Village

🎯 Tip: Stay in Oranjestad for easy access to shops and nightlife; choose Eagle Beach for a quieter, relaxing beach vibe

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🚕 Transport and Accessibility

• Taxis: Available, but relatively expensive

• Car Rentals: Highly recommended for flexibility and island exploration

• Local Buses: Available but with limited schedules

📍 Tip: Bikes -great option for short distances and beach areas

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⚡ Electricity

• Voltage: 110–120V, 60Hz

• Plugs: Type A & B (same as U.S.) – UK and EU travelers will need an adapter

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📞 Communication

• Country Code: +297

• Languages Spoken: English, Dutch, Spanish, and Papiamento

• Wi-Fi: Widely available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces

• Local SIM cards: available at the airport and mobile shops

• Internet Domain: .aw

🎯 Tip: Avoid hassle on arrival, get your eSIM before you travel (click this link)

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🏖️ Main Holidays

• January 1 – New Year’s Day

• January 25 – Betico Croes Day

• February – Carnival (movable holiday)

• March 18 – National Anthem and Flag Day

• March/April (movable) – Good Friday and Easter Monday

• April 27 – King’s Day

• May 1 – Labor Day

• May (movable) – Ascension Day

• December 25 – Christmas

• December 26 – Boxing Day

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🍽️ Local Cuisine

• Keshi Yena – Stuffed cheese with meat and spices

• Sopi di Pampuna – Pumpkin soup

• Pastechi – Fried pastry filled with meat, cheese or fish

• Fresh seafood and local fish dishes

• Tropical cocktails and local rum-based drinks

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🕌 Local Customs

• Respect the island’s multicultural heritage and local etiquette

• Dress modestly when visiting churches or public buildings

• Tipping is appreciated but not required

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🕵️‍♂️ Safety

• Aruba is considered one of the safest Caribbean destinations

• Basic precautions recommended:

  • Avoid isolated areas at night

  • Keep valuables secure, especially in busy tourist areas

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🚑 Emergency Services

• Police: 911

• Hospital: +297 527 4000

• U.S. Consulate General Curaçao: +5999 461 3066

• UK Embassy The Hague (Haia): +31 70 427 0427

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🔗 Useful Links

• Official Tourism Website: https://www.aruba.com/us

• Embarkation/Disembarkation Card: https://edcardaruba.aw