Before going on a vacation, it’s crucial to do your research first on your destination to better prepare yourself for the weather, local customs, and other common elements you’ll find when you land in a foreign place. Doing so not only helps you make the most of your trip, but you also avoid getting blindsided by situations that could easily put a damper on your vacation.
For instance, some travelers who are planning to visit Aruba may only focus on their itineraries but overlook checking other important details such as how to get better deals for accommodations, which modes of transportation are ideal for navigating the island, what to pack for the island’s climate, what local regulations to follow, and so on. Thus, to help you avoid any unnecessary hassle during your Aruban vacation, here are some things you might want to know about beforehand.
1. Aruba Has a Semi-Arid Climate
Barring a few rain showers—most of which happen around the tail end of the year—the sun almost always shines on Aruba during the day. Average temperatures fall around 82°F (28°C), with the hottest months being from May to October. Hence, make sure to pack clothing that’s breathable and lightweight so you won’t be drenched in sweat as you go around exploring the island. Another thing to note about Aruba’s weather and climate is that the winds can get strong at times, so don’t forget to bring a shawl to protect your face or your hair from getting constantly tangled by the oncoming breeze.
2. Aruba Is Home to Many Vacation Rental Properties
The large number of tourists that the island receives each year has given way to a thriving market for vacation rentals in Aruba to accommodate visitors who wish to stay for several days or even much longer. Many of these properties are managed by local rental agencies that can give you better Aruba vacation deals and rates, seeing as there’s no middleman needed in the transaction. Their familiarity with the area also means they can provide you with insider knowledge on hidden gems, tips, and recommendations to make sure you enjoy your stay to the fullest. This makes booking with a local vacation rental agency not only much more convenient, but it also gives the best value for your money compared to using global travel booking websites.
3. Majority of Aruban Establishments Accept US Dollars
While the Aruban florin is Aruba’s official currency, you’ll find that a majority of establishments on the island readily accept US dollars. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about having your money exchanged once you get to the island. If you’re carrying a different currency, however, then fret not because major credit cards are widely accepted among Aruban stores and restaurants as well. Just make sure to check with your bank first for possible foreign transaction fees so you won’t be surprised by any additional charges when you return from your trip.
4. Cash Is a Must for Some Local Shops and Restrooms
Even though credit cards are accepted almost anywhere on Aruba, carrying some cash with you is still highly recommended. This is because some local shops, such as traditional souvenir or artisan stalls, may only accept cash. Moreover, if you’re outdoors and happen to need to use a restroom, then note that some restrooms on Aruba may charge a small fee. Hence, it’s much better to always be prepared by always having a small change on hand rather than be caught unaware about such fees.
5.Aruba Has a Ban on Sunscreens Containing Oxybenzone
In June 2020, Aruba adopted a law that banned sunscreen products containing oxybenzone because this chemical has been known to kill corals and damage reefs as a result. As sunscreen is a must-have when visiting Aruba, do make sure that the one you’re bringing with you doesn’t have oxybenzone as an ingredient. To play it safe, you may also just buy sunscreen once you get to Aruba so you’d know the authorities have already determined that the product is free from environmentally harmful chemicals.
6. Aruba’s Tap Water Is Safe to Drink
When you’re on vacation, it’s understandable to be wary of the water you’re drinking as you’ll certainly want to avoid having an upset stomach or worse. That being said, you’ll be pleased to know that Aruba’s tap water is perfectly safe to drink. Aruba’s municipal water is seawater converted into freshwater through the desalination process, which removes any contaminants and impurities from it. Being an economically developed territory, Aruba also regularly conducts stringent testing of its tap water. So don’t hesitate to fill up your water containers from the tap during your stay and skip having to buy bottled water.
7. Rental Cars Are the Way to Go for Exploring Aruba
If you want to explore more places in Aruba rather than just stay on a particular side of the island, then renting a car is likely the best option for you. Having a vehicle at your disposal gives you the freedom to manage when and where you want to explore, not to mention renting a car can turn out to be the cheaper option compared to going by taxi each time you want to go out. Moreover, if your vacation rental is managed by a local agency, then they probably already have connections with local car rental companies that they can refer to you for added convenience.
Knowing more than just surface-level knowledge about Aruba before you visit can enrich your experience of the island while also helping you make sure your vacation remains stress-free. By keeping the pointers above in mind, you can surely count on a much more fulfilling stay in Aruba the next time you visit.
