Why travel to
Aruba is a perfect destination for people looking to enjoy the perfect mix of outdoor activities, beaches, and Caribbean culture. The island is known for its pleasant year-round temperatures, renowned beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent watersports opportunities, making it an excellent place to unwind and relax or try something new. The island is also known for its vibrant nightlife and a wide variety of restaurants serving up diverse international cuisine. For those looking to explore, Aruba offers endless attractions such as exciting desert safaris, a mule train tour to the gold mines, national park visits, historic sightseeing, and many more exciting activities.
Cost of living
The cost of living in Aruba depends on factors such as lifestyle and desired amenities. Generally, the cost of living in Aruba can be higher than in other countries due to its higher cost of accommodation, food, and entertainment. However, the cost of living in Aruba can be kept reasonable by taking advantage of discounted accommodation, such as apartment rental, and choosing to buy local groceries and cook at home.
Safety
Yes, it is generally safe to travel to Aruba. The small Caribbean nation has extremely low crime rates and it is considered one of the safest countries in the Caribbean. It is advisable to take normal safety precautions as you would anywhere else.
Places to visit
- Eagle Beach: Eagle Beach is one of Aruba’s most iconic beaches and boasts beautiful white sands, turquoise waters, and plenty of opportunities for relaxation.
- Palm Beach: Palm Beach is a popular destination for tourists in Aruba, known for its vibrant nightlife and its wide variety of activities, from jet skiing to snorkeling.
- Arikok National Park: Arikok National Park is an exciting way to explore Aruba’s natural beauty. This park covers 20 percent of the island and features ancient caves, exotic flora and fauna, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
- California Lighthouse: This beautiful lighthouse was built in 1916 and offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea, the Antilla shipwreck, and the rocky cliffs of Aruba.
- Alto Vista Chapel: Alto Vista Chapel is a peaceful and serene chapel located on a hill overlooking the Caribbean Sea. It was built in 1750 and remains a popular tourist attraction today.
- Ostrich Farm: This unique farm is in the small town of Sabana Liber and is the home of more than 80 colorful, friendly ostriches. Visitors can take a safari tour of the farm and watch the birds in action.
- Natural Pool: The Natural Pool is a unique swimming hole located on Arikok National Park. This invigorating pool is surrounded by natural rocks and offers stunning views of the ocean.
- Aruba Ostrich Farm Adventure Park: The Aruba Ostrich Farm Adventure Park is a family-friendly attraction located in Noord. The park combines a safari tour with an educational experience for guests of all ages.
- De Palm Island: De Palm Island is a paradise for thrill-seekers and adventurous travellers, offering a wide range of activities like snorkelling, parasailing, and kayaking.
- The California Sand Dunes: The California Sand Dunes provide some of the most spectacular sand dune formations you’ll find on the island and offer a chance to explore the shoreline and discover hidden coves and beaches.
Food to try
- Keshi Yena: a traditional Aruban dish made from a baked cheese stuffed with a blend of meats, veggies and spices.
- Aruban Beef Stew: A slow-cooked stew made with beef, potatoes, carrots, onions, garlic, tomatoes and spices.
- Sushi Aruba-style: The local take on sushi featuring fusion ingredients like coconut, papaya and mango.
- Leche Di Coco: A traditional dessert made from coconut milk, vanilla and spices.
- Seed Cake: A layered pastry cake made from sweet potatoes, plantains and coconut.
- Icha Funchi: A traditional Aruban side dish made from corn meal, butter, onions and spices.
- Papaya & Shrimp Salad: A refreshing salad made from fresh papaya, shrimp, onions, garlic and lime juice.
- Baked Plantains: Plantains baked with butter, sugar and spices, served with yoghurt and honey.
Souvenirs
- Aruba T-shirt - A colourful reminder of your trip to Aruba with a T-shirt featuring a classic logo or spectacular tropical design.
- Aruba Hot Sauce - An ideal memento of your trip to the Caribbean, made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
- Aruba Honey - A sweet and flavorful souvenir to bring home and enjoy, made from indigenous wildflower honey.
- Aruban Coffee - Enjoy the bold, nutty notes of locally-grown and roasted Aruban coffee beans.
- Arouban Rum - Sample the local favourite spirit in a bottle, packaged in its iconic straw-wrapped bottle.
- FaarutaArt – A great artisanal gift, this colourful and hand-crafted pottery will remind you of the beaches of Aruba forever.
- Aloe Vera Products - Aloe vera is a popular ingredient for body and skin care, and Aruba produces some of the highest quality aloes in the world .
- Aruban Jewelry - Magnificent handmade jewellery with local stones and shells, perfect for remembering the glistening Caribbean beaches.
- Local Food Snacks - Take some of the unique Aruban flavours home in the form of dried snacks like banana chips and shrimp crackers.
- Limon Crafts - Bring these colorful Aruban crafts home in the form of handmade bags and knick-knacks to add beauty to your home.
