Believe it or not, the Spanish colonists who settled in Aruba and her sister islands of Bonaire and Curaçao in 1513 nicknamed them the “Islas Inútiles,” or Useless Islands. They couldn’t have been further from the truth. Centuries later, this southern Caribbean cluster is using an arid climate and minimal rainfall in their favor; Aruba in particular lures tourists with its blindingly white beaches and craggy limestone landscape. And with its extensive underwater visibility, this island is a preferred getaway for divers looking to explore buried shipwrecks or to study some magnificent coral reefs up close.
Inflated room rates and airfares (some of the most expensive in all of the Caribbean) have nurtured Aruba’s reputation for exclusivity, but just take one look around Palm Beach and you’ll see that’s not the case. College kids, honeymooners, young families and baby boomers are all jockeying for their own piece of shade under the nearest divi-divi tree. Those colonists be damned: Aruba is indeed being put to good use.
The best time to visit Aruba is from April to August — a huge window of time when the island’s high prices take a holiday. And since the island sits well outside the hurricane belt, there’s very little threat of tropical storms at this time. January to March features pleasant weather, but the room prices can soar. You can also find discounts if you travel in the early fall. Whenever you visit, keep in mind Aruba is prone to high trade winds, which makes for a great experience for windsurfers.
The best way to get around Aruba is by bus. Although, many visitors stay close to their resorts and respective beaches along the northwest coast. To get from Aruba’s Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA) to your hotel, take a taxi. Fixed-rate Aruban cabs are another hassle-free way of getting around. Renting a car is a good choice for exploring the island’s east coast, while renting an ATV for off-roading in the Arikok National Park is another option for the more adventurous crowd.
Aruba is also a popular port of call for cruise ships. Ships dock at the Port Authority in Oranjestad. From there you’ll find car rental agencies and taxis ready to take you to your destination.
