What Makes Aruba The Happy Island?

One Happy Island. That truly is the best way to describe Aruba and all that it offers. It brings happiness, with its natural wonders and wonderful people. As a part of the Dutch Caribbean “ABC” Islands in the Southern Caribbean, Aruba has a variety of offerings. It is famous for its white sandy beaches, desert terrain and bright blue waters. With its capital Oranjestad as a primary port city, you will encounter the happy people of Aruba here during your visit. Most Arubans speak four languages, with English being one of them. Over one million visitors stay-over on the island, making it a popular destination. You will find plenty of happiness here, so let’s dive in!

Where is Aruba and how can I get there?

Located in the Southern Caribbean right on the edge of the hurricane zone, you will find many ways to reach Aruba. Flying in will bring you through the Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA). The airport has around 20 international gateways to reach her from nearly all major American airlines. The cruise terminal is also a common launching point into the island. Once on the island you will find buses every half hour to the hotels. Cabs will take you places, but run on Destination rather than metered distance. Our preference? A Private Transfer or Private Tour wherever you wish to go.

Is Aruba Safe to Visit?

CARTE ATLAS advises all travelers to become aware of the International Travel Advisory Map from the U.S. Department of State. This map lists out the levels of travel. As of the publication of this blog post, the island of Aruba carries a Level 1 “exercise normal precaution” advisory from the U.S. State Department. Once you are educated on the level, you can decide if you wish to visit where a million overnight voyagers do each and every year.

What Currency Should I Use?

American Dollars can be used here, and you will find ATMS around the island if needed for Arubian Florin (the official currency).

Is There Strong Internet?

You will be happy to know Aruba does have wifi in hotels and public places. Be sure to check with your cruise ship about wifi packages if needed, though most luxury cruise lines include them.

Will there be drinking water?

Aruba has safe drinking water that does come from the tap due to their extensive desalination programs. If you are still anxious, just use bottled waters found with your cruise, hotel, or at a local market.

Where are the resorts located?

There are two regions of resorts in the island you will find. Palm Beach (yes, Aruba has one too!) and Eagle Beach. You may also find resorts in Oranjestad or in other locations, however the two beaches are the primary. There are plenty of ways to reach the resorts, but our personal preference is luxury transfer.

Palm Beach is known for High Rise Resorts. This is an active area both day and night. You will find restaurants, cafes, and even casinos here. High end luxury hotels make their home at Palm Beach. Eagle Beach is known for Low Rise Resorts. A more laid back environment will be found here. The hotels barely go higher than two stories. You will see select resorts here on a smaller and more relaxed scale. Oranjestad will have fewer resorts, with a few close to the airport. And of course, private villas are always around the area.

What activities are there on the island?

Water activities along the crystal blue waters that surround the island are available. Snorkeling, kayaking, and more await you. Scuba diving is also a popular activity due to the over twenty dive sites, including nine diver-friendly shipwrecks. And with over 18 sport-fishing charters, this is a prime location to visit for game fish. Aruba even offers submarines to explore the world underwater even more.

For land based activities, look no further than the white sand beaches of Aruba. You will find your happy place at one of these amazing locations. The south and west beaches have the famous soft white sand that makes Aruba famous. The east beaches have hidden coves and caverns to enjoy. The north beaches provide challenges, and note that all beaches are public and do not have lifeguards. And of course, the Arikok National Park is one of the highlights of the island. You hike, horseback ride or journey around by water. You may even see amazing species like the Aruban Burrowing Owl.

West Coast Beaches along the seven mile strip have earned #1 beaches in the world from Conde Nast. Eagle Beach is located here, and is well known for water activities listed above. Eagle Beach is also home to endangered sea turtles! Palm Beach has all the happy-hour places like beach clubs and restaurants. The East beaches, also known as the Windward Coast, has hidden places to explore! Find your happy place in a secluded cove.

What are Reasons to Visit the Happy Island of Aruba?

One usually hears romance when you hear of the island Aruba. There are plenty of ways to make your wonderful journey special. From honeymoons and vow renewals to celebration parties with your gals and pals. Or even pop the question on the white sand beaches with the bright blue waters. Aruba also makes an effort for the LGBTQ+ community and is one of the most welcoming. Resorts certified in TAG must meet diversity training and LGBTQ+ hiring to receive. You will find plenty of TAG certified resorts on the island of Aruba.

Culture is a key part of what makes this island happy. The city of San Nicolas is a thirty minute drive and houses plenty of art, including the Aruba Art Fair. History lovers will enjoy the Fort Zoutman Historical Museum as well as the Archeological Museum. The California Lighthouse dots the coast with its bright white color, matching the white sand beaches below. Even more adventurous finds can be found at the Balashi Gold Mill and the Aloe Museum and Factory.

Get ready to be hungry arriving, but fulfilled when you leave. You will find award winning chefs and restaurants all around the island. Full of international cuisine, you will find your favorites along the streets of Aruba. Palm Beach and Oranjestad will have over 100 restaurants to choose from. Speciality restaurants may have you dining barefoot on the beach at sunset. Or even a chef’s table will entice you to enjoy experiential dining.

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