The flag consists of a red star with a white outline set against a sea-blue background with two parallel yellow stripes. The star represents the four points of the compass, denoting the varied source of more than 40 nationalities living on Aruba. The red color of the star symbolizes love of country, the white outline on the star represents the white sandy beaches surrounding Aruba, and the blue denotes the color of the sea.

The two yellow stripes indicate the free position of Aruba with respect to The Netherlands and other islands, while maintaining a close relationship with them.

Most visitors stay either in the capital, Oranjestad, or just to the north in one of the many resort complexes on Eagle and Palm beaches. The remainder of the island is much less developed and in the arid interior there is nothing more substantial than cacti, divi-divi trees, contorted by the consistently strong trade winds, and herds of goats. For those who demand more than simply soaking up the sun there are plenty of activities available. There is good diving and snorkelling along the reef on the protected leeward coast and windsurfing is excellent a little further north at Fisherman’s Hut. Deep-sea fishing can be arranged through many of the hotels.Details

The wind-swept island of Aruba was discovered and claimed for Spain in 1499, later acquired by the Dutch in 1636.

Once part of the Netherlands Antillies, Aruba withdrew, and subsequently became an independent member of the Kingdom of the Netherlands

Oil refining (even gold mining) were the major industries here, but then tourism developed, and the economy of Aruba changed. In fact, Aruba remains one of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean.

This sunshiny place of balmy (some say perfect) weather, sandy beaches, duty-free shopping, and one of the most fascinating ecosystems on the planet, is surrounded by the warm, aquamarine waters of the Caribbean Sea.

Official Name Aruba, an autonomous member of the Kingdom of the Netherlands

Population 69,000

Capital City Oranjestad (20,000)

Languages Dutch (official), Papiamento, English. The official language is Dutch but English and Spanish are taught in school and are also widely spoken. Some French is also understood. Most islanders also speak the native language Papiamento at home or between friends.

Time: GMT -4.

Entry Requirements: A passport is not required for US nationals providing they have other documents with proof of identity, such as an official birth certificate, certificate of naturalization or alien registration (green) card. A visa is not required for stays of up to three months. All passports must be valid for period of intended stay. Visitors must hold sufficient funds, onward or return tickets and all documents for next destination.

Electricity: Electric current is 127 volts, 60Hz. Flat two- and three-pin plugs are standard.

Official Currency Aruban Guilder The official currency is the Aruba Florin or Guilder (Af), which is tied to the US Dollar. US currency is accepted everywhere and other major currencies can be exchanged at banks. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted and there are ATMs in Oranjestad. Travellers cheques are also widely accepted.

Religions Catholic, Protestant, others

Land Area 74 sq miles (193 sq km)

Latitude/Longitude 12º 30N, 69º 58W

Highest Point Mt. Yamanota, 620 ft. (188m)

ABOUT THE ISLAND

San Nicolas

The industrial centre of Aruba, San Nicolas is the island's oldest and largest town. Until the late 19th century it was a small fishing village but all this changed with the mining of phosphate on the island, and more recently the discovery of oil off the coast of Venezuela. The town provides a glimpse of old British-Caribbean charm and contains a handful of restaurants and shops. There are a few popular beaches to the east of the town that offer good swimming and snorkelling opportunities and are suitable for families.


The Natural Bridge

The most photographed attraction on the island, the Natural Bridge is halfway along the rocky North Eastern shore. More than 100ft (30m) across and rising 25ft (eight metres) above sea level, this natural coral archway spans a small bay and has been carved by thousands of years of strong winds and crashing waves. Another beach can be accessed by crossing the bridge; it is a good spot for experienced boogie-boarders. The less energetic can enjoy a drink at the café on the cliff-top. A little further down the coast is Daimari, a lush oasis comprising a coconut plantation and a ranch from which one can hire a horse and ride to a the stunning natural pool at Boca Ketu. There is also a 4WD track to the pool.


Arikok National Park

Arikok National Park encompasses a significant chunk of the interior and a long stretch of the northern coast. The park has miles of well-marked hiking trails and this, for most, is the best way to discover its attraction. Between the towering cacti and the contorted divi-divi trees can be found the best preserved Indian cave paintings on the island, deserted plantation houses, and the ruins of an old gold mine. Within the park is Mount Jamanota, which at 620ft (188m) is Aruba's biggest hill. From the top one can enjoy good views of the island and on a clear day one can see across to Venezuela. At the southern reaches of the park are the Guadirkiri Caves and the Tunnel of Love. Legend has it that the headstrong daughter of an Indian Chief was trapped here with an unsuitable suitor and left to perish but their love-boosted spirits shot through the roof of the cave and into heaven.


Oranjestad

Aruba’s capital, Oranjestad, is the first stop for most visitors. Its small harbour, once reserved for schooners and fishing boats, now attracts cruise ships from all over the world, and the airport is located just south of the city. Despite the thousands of tourists that pour into the town it has managed to retain its charm. The downtown streets are lined with pastel-coloured Dutch colonial houses adorned with ornate gable roofs, and the average tourist will be unaware that many are recent imitations. The small Archaeological Museum has exhibits on Aruba's Arawak inhabitants and, in the restored 18th-century Fort Zoutman, the Museo Arubano, displays Aruba's pre-European and colonial eras while the Numismatic Museum has a large collection of coins from over 400 countries, many salvaged from shipwrecks in the surrounding area. Although shoppers will find central Oranjestad packed with boutiques and shopping complexes and glitzy 24-hour casinos, it is possible to escape this tourist zone and discover the more authentic town with its lively, if slightly run-down bars where one can enjoy a beer and meet the locals.


Beach Strip

Just north of the capital, Aruba’s best stretch of beaches extend four miles (seven km) between Eagle Beach and Palm Beach. The endless fine, golden sand and the crystal-clear shallow waters have not surprisingly attracted the crowds and with them the high-rise, luxury hotel complexes that line the beach. There are no shortage of bars and restaurants to choose from and beachgoers are able to hire all sorts of toys including kayaks, windsurfers, snorkelling gear and catamarans. North of Palm Beach are some colourful reefs and shipwrecks to entice divers and snorkellers. Diving trips, windsurfing and sailing lessons can be arranged through most hotels. For those looking to take a break from the beach, distractions include the nearby Butterfly Farm and the Bubali Bird Sanctuary, a small marshland where visitors can view hundreds of species of migratory waterfowl including coots, cormorants, terns and herons. A favourite place to enjoy the sunset is at the restaurant by the California lighthouse on the northern tip of the island. The lighthouse was built after the British steamship, the California, ran aground here in 1891.

Tipping: A 10 or 15% tip is automatically added to restaurant, bar and room service bills in most hotels. Taxis should be tipped around 15% and porters expect a tip of US$1 per bag.
Climate: With an average temperature of 82°F (28°C) Aruba is kept relatively cool by the constant trade winds. The peak tourist season is between mid-December and mid-April, and if you can visit outside this period you can expect room rates to be almost halved.

Safety: Crime is not a major problem in Aruba and most visits are trouble-free, however visitors are still advised to take common-sense precautions, locking valuables in the hotel safe and taking care when walking home at night.