The Basics
Country: Aruba
Where is it?: Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, north of Venezuela
Why do people go here?: This island off the coast of Venezuela is home to less than 75,000 people, but has more than its share of sun, sand and fun. Tourists flock to the beach, especially during the winter when they flee the frigid north.
What are the main entry points?: Flying into the capital, Oranjestad, is most common.
Currency used: Aruban guilder/florin (AWG)
Country Code: 297
Religion: Roman Catholic 82%, Protestant 8%, Hindu, Muslim, Confucian, Jewish
Population: 100,000
Ethnic Breakdown: Mixed white/Caribbean Amerindian 80%
Government: Constitutional monarchy
Languages: Dutch (official), Papiamento (a Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, English dialect), English (widely spoken),Spanish
Travel Information
Major Cities: Oranjestad
Attractions: Oranjestad, sand, sun
Accommodation: Aruba Hotels
Tourism Office locations and links: Aruba-Tourist Authority 172 L.G. Smithe Blvd. P.O. Box 1019 Aruba+297-8-23777; FAX +297-8-34702
Tips for Visiting
When to go: Avoid the crowds and go in the fall. Winter and spring are packed with tourists fleeing the cool weatherin the north.
Specific Events/Holidays: Flag Day, 18 March
Getting Around: Cars are your best bet, but if you’re on a budget, buses will get you around.
Good to know: There are no direct boats from Venezuela to Aruba, despite what you might think
Cheapest airport to fly into: Reina Beatrix is what you need to have cheaper flights to/from Aruba.
Need more information?: Check out the Aruba travel guide for more on what to see, where to stay, and how to get there.
