Aruba
Aruba is a Dutch Caribbean island in the southern Caribbean, known for its year-round sunny and dry weather outside the hurricane belt. Its capital is Oranjestad, and the official languages are Dutch and Papiamentu. The island offers white-sand beaches, a desert-like interior, and a mix of European and Caribbean cultures.
Geography and climate
Located in the southern Caribbean, north of the Venezuelan coast and southwest of the Lesser Antilles.
Has a dry, tropical climate with temperatures averaging around $82^\circ$F ($28^\circ$C) year-round, thanks to constant trade winds.
Primarily flat with a desert-like landscape, featuring white-sand beaches on the west and south coasts, and rugged terrain on the north coast.
When is the best time to visit? Winter: With its location south of hurricane zones, there is never really a bad time to visit Aruba.
Government and culture
- Government: An autonomous country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
- Official Languages: Dutch and Papiamentu, though English and Spanish are also widely spoken.
- Currency: The Aruban Florin.
Entry Requirements:
A valid passport is required for entry, with a recommendation for it to be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. A new Sustainability Fee of $20 was implemented in July 2024 for all air visitors, as noted on VisitAruba.com.
Best time to visit:
It's a great destination year-round, but especially popular in the winter months to escape colder climates.
Safety:
Generally safe, but it is advisable to avoid poorly lit streets and secluded areas, especially at night.
