Aruba / Island Essentials

All travellers to Aruba will need to know the essential island facts.  The information on Aruba shown below is current (2011).

Airport

Aruba's international airport is called Queen Beatrix (AUA) and is situated in the capital Oranjestad.

Check In/Check Out

As a general rule check-out times are around 12 noon and check-in is generally not prior to 3pm, during which time the rooms are made ready for new arrivals. Some properties may provide a day room subject to availability or shower facilities so that you can spend your last hours on the beach. If you will be arriving before the normal check-in time then they may be flexible by prior arrangement. You should make any special arrangements at the time of booking.

Departure Tax & Taxes

For US-bound passengers the departure tax is US$36.75 and for other international bound passengers the tax is US$33.50. Departure tax is generally included in the price of your airline ticket. If you are in Aruba for less than 24 hours, these charges are waived. Children under 2 years of age do not have to pay departure tax.

Electricity

The domestic electricity supply is 110 volts, 60Hz. American-style plugs with two flat metal pins are standard on the island, so remember to bring the appropriate converters if you will need them.

Embassies & Consulates

There are no embassies or High Commissions in Aruba. 

Canadians can obtain consular assistance and information from the Consulate of Canada, Maduro and Curiel's Bank, Plaza Jojo Correa 2-4, PO Box 305, Willemstad, Curaçao, t 5999 466 1115 

British citizens can obtain consular assistance and information from the British Consulate, 6 Willemstad, Curaçao, t 5999 747 3322 

American citizens can obtain consular assistance and information from the US Consulate General, at JB Gorsiraweg 1, Curacao, Netherlands Antilles, t 5999 461 3066

Emergencies

Ambulance – 911 
Fire Service – 911 
Police – 911

Nudity

Although full nudity in public is illegal in Aruba, topless sunbathing and swimming is not against the law and is tolerated on most beaches in the resort areas. Eagles beach is not officially topless but it happens there quite often.

Service Charge/Tipping

Service charge in Aruba is usually 15% and included in the bill. You are free to give more for good service as it will always be appreciated.

Time Zone

Aruba is in the Atlantic Standard Time Zone, which is four hours behind GMT, ie Britain in winter, and five hours behind Europe. During the winter it is an hour ahead of the eastern seaboard of the USA. 

Aruba has no daylight saving time, so when the clocks change in summer the island is five hours behind Britain, six behind Europe and on the same time as the eastern seaboard.