About
Aruba

Aruba's weather is perfect year-round, with temperatures averaging about 82 degrees and constant refreshing tradewinds.

This safe and stable island has Dutch roots and a government founded on democratic principles. In 1986, Aruba achieved its separate status as an autonomous entity within the Dutch Kingdom. Its commercial development has included gold, aloe, oil and its primary industry of tourism. With a Dutch foundation and international influences, Aruba has become a modern nation with advanced infrastructure, meeting the needs of its people in such areas as education, social welfare and medicine.

Aruba's 120,000 people are a diverse mix of about 80 nationalities, well-educated with a pleasant nature and a zest for hospitality. Their warm smiles and friendly demeanor are known throughout the world and a key factor in achieving the highest repeat visitor rate in the region.

Aruba's multi-cultural heritage is also apparent in everyday communication; Papiamento and Dutch are the official languages, while English and Spanish are widely spoken. While most of the inhabitants are of the Roman Catholic religion, there are houses of worship of many other denominations.

The island's cultural richness is also evident in its contemporary art, theatre, and music; holidays and celebrations such as Carnival and Dera Gai; and products proudly made in Aruba, including edibles and collectables, spirits, cigars, aloe and handicrafts.

Aruba’s topography and vegetation are unusual for a Caribbean island. Divi-divi trees, easily recognized by their distinctive wind-sculpted shape, dot a landscape defined by miles of pristine white beaches and a rugged northeast coast.

Aruba is on Atlantic Standard Time year-round. This is one hour later than in the northeastern United States when the clocks there are turned back in the fall for Daylight Savings Time. When the clocks are moved forward in the spring, Aruba has the same time.