Aruba Overview

Overview

It does not take a wizard with words to realise that Aruba’s capital, Oranjestad, is so-named because it is in some way connected to the colour orange. Disembarking from the nearby port or airport, it is difficult for any visitor to the town not to be dazzled by the row of orange facades that brightly array the architecture. Of course, the colour indicates Aruba’s historical ties with The Netherlands: although seceded from The Netherlands in 1986, its head of state is still the Dutch ruling monarch.

Arubans know that they live on an island with the best that Caribbean sea and sand has to offer. Progressing on from Oranjestad, it is not just the main town that is colourful. The Chapel of Alto Vista is a vivid yellow. The sea is populated by creatures of all colours: parrotfish splashed in dazzling teal and gold are a popular sight in Aruba’s waters. Indeed, Aruba’s waters are popular full-stop: there is something for everyone, with certain beaches regarded best for activities such as snorkelling, surfing, windsurfing, diving and, even, lounging.

But Aruba does not just offer the option of beaches. Oranjestad has some of the best duty-free shops in the Caribbean. There are flamingos to spot in the national park, desert flora to see, caves with ancient drawings to explore and natural phenomena to gawp at.

The trademark windswept divi-divi trees in the Cunucu look like they are leaning back and relaxing, staring up at Aruba’s light blue skies, rather than being blown into that position by northeasterly trade winds. It is not difficult to lean back and take it easy on an island such as Aruba. Its way of life is just the tonic for any frazzled visitor: like the aloe vera gel whose origin of plant is everywhere on the island, there is something here to soothe anyone’s daily stresses and abrasions.

Weather & Climate

Climate

With a mean temperature of 28°C (82°F), this dry and sunny island is made pleasantly cool throughout the year by constant trade winds. Showers of short duration occur during the months of October, November and December.

Required Clothing

Lightweight clothes. A sweater is useful for air conditioned hotels and restaurants. Some upscale restaurants do not allow shorts and T-shirts.