|
Travellers' Tips and Reminders
Proof of identity is required for US and Canadian residents entering Aruba. Any of the following are acceptable:
- A valid passport.
- An original birth certificate for citizens born in the US or Canada, along with photo ID.
-A certificate of naturalization for citizens born outside the US or Canada, along with a photo ID. A re-entry permit, a valid non-quota immigration visa or an Alien Registration Card (green card) for non-US or Canadian citizens residing in the US or Canada.
All other nationalities must have a valid passport, and a visa if required. |
| Staying Healthy: The water in Aruba is drinkable. It is distilled in the world's second largest saltwater purification plant. The sun is at its strongest between 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., and the use of a sunscreen is highly recommended.
Health Care: There is a doctor on call at every hotel. Excellent dental facilities are also available. Appointments can be made through your hotel.
Safety & Security: Exercise the same care for your safety and the security of your valuables that you would at home. Leave all your valuables, irreplaceable items, passport and other travel documents in a safe place, such as a hotel safe or safety deposit box. |
| Currency: The official currency is the Aruban florin, which is divided into 100 cents. Silver coins are in denominations of 5, 10, and 50 cents, one florin, 2 florins, and 5 florins. The florin fluctuates with the dollar on the world market. US dollars are widely accepted in Aruba, and banks may exchange other foreign currency.
ATMs and Credit Cards: Travellers with ATM cards bearing the CIRRUS and Plus System network logos can withdraw cash in Aruban florins. These cards can also be used to obtain cash in local currency at Automated Teller Machines of Caribbean Mercantile Bank, ABN-AMRO Bank, and Aruba Bank. Aruba Bank's ATM's will also provide American money.
Most establishments in Aruba accept major credit cards, MasterCard, Visa, and American Express.
Tipping & Taxes: There is an 11% service charge on hotel room rates. There is also a 6% government tax. The service charge on food and beverage is 10% to 15% added automatically to your bill at restaurants as well as hotels, in lieu of gratuities. |
| Taxi: Taxis in Aruba do not have meters; rates are fixed and should be confirmed before starting out. Most of the drivers have participated in the government's Tourism Awareness Program.
Bus: There is inexpensive and reliable daily bus service between all regions of the island and the hotel areas. Just check at your hotel for schedules and hours.
Car Rental: If you have an international driving license, or have had any valid driver's license for more than two years, you may rent and drive an automobile in Aruba. Age restrictions, from 21 through 25 vary amongst the rental companies. |
| Aruba's electrical current is the North American standard 110-volt, using the same two prong plug outlet. |
|
|