Overview
Sitting back and enjoying life is not difficult on an island like Aruba, and the laid-back way of life is just what visitors need to get away from it all for a while. Aruba’s capital, Oranjestad, impresses visitors with orange-colored house facades that reveal the island’s historical ties to the Netherlands. Although Aruba separated from Holland in 1986, the reigning Dutch monarch remains the head of state of this independent state within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Oranjestad is home to some of the best duty free shopping in the Caribbean. You can also discover the flamingos in the national park, the flora of the desert, caves with ancient paintings and numerous natural phenomena. Aruba is an island that offers the best of Caribbean waters and beaches. The iridescent sea is teeming with creatures of all colors, led by the blue-green and gold-flecked parrotfish. Some beaches are particularly good for snorkeling, surfing and diving. See other countries in North America on thesciencetutor.
Getting there
Arriving by plane
KLM (KL) flies non-stop from Amsterdam to Oranjestad, the capital of Aruba, with connecting flights from several German, Austrian and Swiss cities. Further connections to Aruba with stopovers in the USA, including Miami, Atlanta and New York.
Flight times
Frankfurt/M. – Oranjestad: 12 hrs 15 mins; Vienna – Oranjestad: 13 hrs 5 mins; Zurich – Oranjestad: 13 hours 10 minutes (each including stay in Amsterdam).
Departure fee
If the airport fee of US$ 47.25 per person is not included in the flight ticket price, it will be paid at the check-in counter upon departure.
Arrival by ship
Because of its excellent duty-free shopping, Aruba is a popular cruise destination.
Cruise ships
Ships from the following shipping companies dock at the port of Oranjestad on their world cruises: – Cunard and Phoenix from Hamburg, – MSC from Marseille and – P&O Cruises from Southampton.
Transportation
Traveling by car/bus
The island’s road network is excellent. LG Smith Boulevard, the island’s main road, has been expanded into a four-lane highway between Oranjestad and Palm Beach. The signage corresponds to international standards on the island. Oranjestad can get very busy on the roads during rush hour and when a cruise ship arrives.
Right-hand traffic/left-hand traffic
Right
Condition of the roads
The roads are well developed.
Car rental
Almost all major car rental companies are represented, as well as some local companies. Hotels are happy to help arrange rental cars. The minimum age for drivers is 21-25 years, depending on the vehicle category.
Taxi
Taxis are not metered; however, fares are fixed and should be inquired about before boarding. The driver only expects a tip if he helps with heavy luggage.
Bicycle
Scooters, mopeds, bicycles and e-bikes can be rented from various providers in the cities and tourist areas.
Coach
There are regular bus services between the cities, the main bus station in Oranjestad and the hotels at Eagle Beach and Palm Beach. Timetables are available from tourist information offices, hotels, the Arubus Station in Oranjestad or the Tourist Office. State-owned transport company Arubus operates much of the island’s public bus service, including regular services between San Nicholas in the southwest and resorts along the northwest coast via Oranjestad.
Regulations
Traffic regulations: – Traffic on the right. Speed limits: – 40 km/h in built-up areas; – extra-urban 60 km/h; – Motorway 80 km/h.
Roadside Assistance
The ADAC foreign emergency call offers ADAC members and holders of ADAC foreign health and accident insurance comprehensive assistance in the event of vehicle breakdowns, traffic accidents, loss of documents and money, and medical emergencies. The emergency number is available around the clock; in the event of vehicle damage: Tel. +49 (89) 22 22 22, in the event of illness: +49 (89) 76 76 76.
Documentation
The national driver’s license is valid in Aruba.
Note on travel by road
Caution should be exercised on roads marked “bus only” and reserved for buses only. There are depressions on these roads where normal cars get stuck, while buses can drive unhindered.
Traveling in the city
In Oranjestad, a tram connects the port with the center.
Traveling by ship
Palm Island Transit offers regular ferry services between Aruba and De Palm Island (daily between 6:30 am and 10:00 pm, every 30 minutes).
