Because of it's proximity to the equator, Aruba is much different
than other Caribbean Island. The island is very arid, and unlike
other islands that are very mountainous and green, Aruba is very
flat, dry and cactus lined landscape. Because of the island's
diverse geography, it stands out among Caribbean Islands. Aruba is
known for it's beautiful beaches, ocean activities including
snorkeling, diving and swimming. In addition, Casinos are abundant
and very popular on the island. In general. Aruba is a nice place to
relax on a beach or do a little shopping.
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GENERAL
Below are some interesting facts for the island:
15
Miles from South America.
19.6 Miles long
6 miles wide (at
it's widest point)
Total Area of 70 Square miles.
South and
West Coasts of Aruba are known for their pristine white beaches.
Northeast shore is very rugged and wild.
The interior of the
island has variety of cacti and dramatic rock formations.
The
island has the famous divi-divi trees which are bending southwest
due to the constant trade winds.
The climate is very consistent
in Aruba - usually dry and sunny.
The average air and water
temperature is 82 degrees,
Normal rainfall is about 20 inches -
usually falling in short periods during November and December.
The sun is especially strong during between 11:00 AM and 2:30 PM so
be sure to bring a hat, sunglasses and use sun lotion liberally.
Population 100,000 residents.
Official language is Dutch but
Papiamento (a combination of Spanish, Dutch and Portuguese with a
certain words of English, Indian and French origins) is spoken.
English and Spanish is also spoken by most residents.
Currency is
the Aruban florin.
A LITTLE HISTORY
Aruba became a separate entity of the Netherlands on January 1,
1986.
The Kingdom of the Netherlands is comprised of the
Netherlands, Netherlands Antilles and Aruba.
The Kingdom of the
Netherlands is responsible for security and international affairs
for Aruba.
The Governor of Aruba is appointed by the Queen of the
Netherlands.
The island's Parliament consists of 21 member
elected by residents.
600,000 tourist visit the island annually
for one or more night stay.
WHEN TO VISIT
Most popular
time to visit the island is January thru March.
Visitors like to
visit the island just before the beginning of Carnival (just prior
to Lent), locals conduct parades, organize parties and arrange
festivities.
Main Cruise Port located at Oranjestad,
Height of
the cruise season for Aruba is peak, October thru April.
ATTRACTIONS
Arikok National Park
Consumes
20% of the island.
A way to appreciate the natural raw beauty of
the island - Hills, Cacti, desert and ocean.
20 miles of trails
to explore - Most recommended is the Miralamar trail (literally
translated as the "Sea View")
48 Species of trees can be found on
Aruba. Some species are only found in the park.
Wildlife includes
the "shoco" a burrowing owl and the tiny "blenchi" (a variety of
hummingbird).
Visit the Ostrich Farm - where you can get up-close
and personal with Ostriches of all ages.
The Butterfly Farm where
visitors can see 32 species of butterflies in various stages from
egg, to caterpillar, chrysalis to butterfly.
Bubali Bird
Sanctuary is a bird sanctuary where visitor can examine a number of
bird species in their natural habitat.
Donkey Sanctuary - Area to
preserve the donkeys which were a main mode of transportation on the
island. Feed the Donkeys or perhaps go for a ride.
Visit
historical homes, art museums, the island's desalination plant,
California Lighthouse or Balashi Brewery Tour to see how the islands
local beer is made.
Visit Fort Zoutman and Willem III Tower - The
oldest historical structure built in 1796 which is the home of the
Aruba Historical Museum.
Visit the Natural Bridge - a rock
formation that forms a bridge with the rough sea crashing nearby
below.
Atlantis Submarine Tour - 1 hour submarine ride past ship
wrecks and coral reefs.
9 Casinos
There are many opportunities
in Aruba to shop especially in the main port Oranjestad. Most stores
are closed on Sundays - although some open if cruise ships are in
port. It should be noted that most stores close between Noon and 2
PM for Lunch. Items for sale include perfume, jewelry, cameras and
electronics, watches and fine china. There is no sales tax in Aruba
SPORTING ACTIVITIES
Horseback Riding
3 Golf Courses - plus one miniature golf course.
Tennis
Deep
Sea Fishing.
Parasailing, Scuba Diving, snorkeling, kayaking,
snuba, Jet Skiing, wind surfing and waterskiing.
Information Source: Aruba Tourism Authority.
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