Aruba Hotels

The Caribbean island of Aruba is around 15 miles north of the Venezuelan coast and is an autonomous dependency of the Netherlands. The island is small, covering an area of only around 184 square metres and is generally flat with a warn climate and white sandy beaches. The temperature on Aruba hovers at around 27 degrees Centigrade for most of the year and the island is outside of the hurricane belt, adding to its reliable climate. Aruba’s capital is Oranjestad, to where cruise ships call in and which is home to the island’s largest marina. Tourism is at the heart of the Aruban economy, although its oil industry is also important.

The Florin is Aruba’s currency, although dollars are widely accepted and Traveller’s Cheques and credit cards can also be used in most outlets. There is only one airport on Aruba – the Reina Beatrix International Airport on the west of the island. There are some direct flights from European airports or a connection can be made from Venezuela.

Dutch and Papiamento are the official languages of the island, but Spanish and English are widely understood and spoken. Most of the shops on Aruba close for lunch, although those situated in hotels may have their own opening hours. There are some good (and reasonably priced) local restaurants as well as the ubiquitous American chains.