Aruba Travel Facts

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.