Aruba General Info
LOCATION
Aruba is situated in the southern Caribbean. 12o 30’ North of the Equator and 70o West longitude. The island is 19.6 miles long and 6 miles across at its widest point and encompasses 70 square miles.
CLIMATE
Dry and sunny - it’s always summer in Aruba. A swim in the pure water is invigorating and the sun will give you a nice healthy glow. Do keep in mind that the sun is at its strongest between 11:00 AM and 2:30 PM and the use of protective sun lotions is strongly recommended. The median temperature from day to night and the difference between winter and summer temperatures is only 3.6 degrees. The average rainfall is 20 inches per year and occurs in showers of short duration during the months of November and December.
*ARUBA IS COMPLETELY OUTSIDE THE HURRICANE BELT.
TOPOGRAPHY
Unusual for a Caribbean island. Because of its dry climate, the vegetation includes a wide variety of cacti set among interesting rock formations and the trade wind-sculptured Watapana (divi divi) tree. On the Southwest coast, there are seven miles of palm-fringed white beaches considered to be among the most beautiful in the world. The blue-green sea is calm and clear with visibility in some areas to a depth of 100 feet. In contrast, the Northeast coast is rugged and wild with high thundering waves that beat against the shore. An indication of their power is the Caribbean’s highest and most dramatic natural bridge, carved by the pounding sea out of coral cliffs into a high arch.
DRINKING WATER
Distilled in the world’s second-largest desalination plant. The water is pure and most refreshing
CURRENCY
The currency is Aruba florin. The florin is divided into 100 cents. Silver coins 5, 10, 25, 50 cents. The 50-cent piece is probably Aruba’s best-known coin - the square “yotin”. The current exchange rate to the USA dollar is approximately A.F.L. 1.79. The florin fluctuates with the dollar on the world market. The USA dollar is widely accepted.
LANGUAGE
Most Arubans have an aptitude for languages and speak several including Dutch, English, and Spanish. Dutch is the official language. “Papiamento” evolved from Spanish, Dutch, Portuguese and a sprinkling of Indian, English, and French. Many of the components have a lilting quality producing a uniquely melodic sound.
ELECTRICITY
The electrical voltage is 110 A.C. (60 cycles) same as in USA.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Visitors to Aruba do need proof of identity. Residents of the United States and Canada may submit a valid passport.
DRIVING AND CAR RENTAL
With a valid foreign license or international driver’s license you may rent and drive a car on the island. The minimum driving age for rental cars is 21. Most American car rental companies have licensees in Aruba, and there are several reliable, locally established car rental companies. Budget is located on hotel premises. For information, check with your hotel or the Aruba Tourism Authority. International road signs are used. Driving is on the right-hand side.
WHAT TO WEAR
For the most part, casual informal summer clothes are the rule in Aruba. Women may wish to take along a headscarf or hat. While the constant trade wind is refreshing, it is not compatible with a fancy hairdo. Dress-up clothes are advisable for a night out in one of the elegant restaurants, nightclubs, or casinos. Jackets are required for men at night in some casinos, nightclubs, and restaurants.
TIME
Atlantic Standard time. One hour ahead of Eastern Standard time.
Sports Travel and Tours Contact
Jay Smith: 800-662-4424 prior to February 5, or cell 413-222-5444 onsite.
