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The Brooklynite Abroad

WELCOME TO ARUBA

ARUBA TRAVEL GUIDE

Presenting to you, your ultimate Aruba Travel Guide.

Aruba, known for being the happy island, is the kind of getaway you’re looking for if you want to escape the cold somewhere tropical, have some downtime to relax, immerse yourself in culture, and partake in outdoor activities.

No matter what you do there is complete sunshine all year round, crystal clear waters, some of the nicest people, and great energy all around. Spending up to seven days is the perfect time for exploring the island and getting your share of relaxation.

From the natural cave pools of Bushiribana and secluded beaches like Dos Playa in Arikok National Park, find yourself having the best time.

Check out your ultimate Aruba Travel Guide and everything you need to know to plan a perfect trip.

best time to visit

Let’s just start with there is no bad time to visit. As your ultimate Aruba Travel Guide, this is what to expect each season so you can plan a perfect trip!

Because this country is right below the hurricane belt, any time of year you go, it will be sunny and the perfect weather. Most people that go end up coming back again and again. It’s a 4-5 hour flight from NYC, making it a doable weekend getaway; although it is recommended to go in 5-6 days to balance relaxation with all the activities in the country.

If you have the chance to visit during Carnival, it happens around February so check the exact dates and plan in advance. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the culture and experience Aruba to a whole new level.

ARUBA TRAVEL GUIDE:
what to know before you go

Language: Officially, they speak Dutch and Papiamento. English and Spanish are also widely spoken, but it’s best to ask beforehand.

Currency: Aruban Florin (AWG), but U.S. dollars are accepted almost everywhere. ATMs dispense both currencies.

Plug Types: Type A, B, and F (same as U.S./Canada in most hotels). Voltage: 127V, 60Hz.

Aruba Travel Guide (Safety):

  • Keep valuables secured on beaches.
  • Avoid isolated areas at night.
  • Dial 911 for any emergency, police, or fire
    • Police: Oranjestad: 100 | Noord: 107 | San Nicolas: 104 | Santa Cruz: 105
      Coast Guard: 913

BUCKET LIST EXPERIENCES

Living like a local: ARUBA TRAVEL GUIDE

phrases you must know before you go!

“BON BIN! Bon DIA, TARDI, NOCHI!”

Welcome & Good morning, afternoon & night.

“despensa”

Excuse me

“Unda e baño
ta?”

Where is the bathroom?

“kwanto esaki ta costa?”

How much does this cost?

“Masha
danki”

Thank you very much

“TE AWORO”

See you later

National dishes

An Aruba Travel Guide is incomplete without trying some of the country’s staple dishes. If you’re looking for a local experience, head over to the Old Cunucu House, a restaurant with authentic Arubian food (because Dutch pancakes are not passing the vibe check).

From their national dish, Keshi Yena, a hearty and cheesy casserole to the oxtail soup, taste all the delicious flavors of Aruba. The ambiance and the food are top-tier.

KESHI YENA
A traditional dish from the Dutch Caribbean islands of Aruba and Curaçao, made from a hollowed-out ball of cheese stuffed with spiced meat and other earthy ingredients.

Aruba National Dishes

ARUBA TRAVEL GUIDE: Transportation

  • Air Travel: Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA) in Oranjestad connects to major U.S., Canadian, and European cities. It’s a small island, so domestic flights aren’t needed.
  • Buses: Reliable and inexpensive, Aruba’s system covers most tourist areas (Eagle Beach, Palm Beach, Oranjestad) and runs roughly every 15–30 minutes.
  • Taxis & Ride Apps: There’s no Uber or Lyft. Taxis are safe but use fixed government-set fares (check the fare chart before riding), and most drivers accept U.S. dollars.
  • Driving: Easy and safe, as the roads are well-maintained and the signs are in English. (This is recommended so you can rent a car to explore beaches and national parks freely).
  • Tip: Keep small bills for bus fares and tip taxi drivers around 10% if the service is good.

TRAVEL GUIDES

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