Yello knows the Caribbean!  We are based in 20 countries across the region, and each one of them is quintessentially Caribbean while also offering visitors a one-of-a-kind cultural experience.

Our British, French and Dutch colonial past can be seen in our food, art, fashion, music, and languages. but, as a region, we are also slowly developing our own unique Caribbean identity based on our distinct geography, values, and experiences.

It’s time to appreciate our shared Caribbean culture and find out more about the islands in our region – let’s visit Aruba.

National Day: 18 March 

Capital: Oranjestad

Background: Aruba is an independent country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The island was initially colonised by the Spanish after being discovered by explorer Alonso de Ojeda in 1499 and was under Spanish control for 137 years. The Dutch occupied the island in 1636, briefly lost it to the British during the Napoleonic Wars, before regaining control in 1816.

Getting around: Getting around Aruba is relatively straightforward because of the island’s small size and extensive road network. Visitors have several transport options, including car hire, taxis and buses, or if you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a motorbike or all-terrain vehicle (ATV).

The main Arubus terminal is in downtown Oranjestad, and there are 11 bus lines to choose from, with a single trip costing about $2.30 (US).

Must-see place of interest: Arikok National Park covers about 20% of Aruba’s total land area and is located in the north-eastern part of the island. The park is a must-see attraction and offers visitors a diverse and unique landscape which includes sand dunes, caves with Arawak Indian drawings, volcanic lava formations and the natural pool also known as ‘conchi’ or ‘Cura di Tortuga’. 

Arikok has several hiking trails and is home to most of Aruba’s flora and fauna, including two unique species of snake and two bird species. It’s also the site for the two tallest hills on the island. 

Must-do annual event: The annual Aruba Beach Tennis Open usually takes place in November. Up to 1,000 international, regional, and local professional and amateur players compete for thousands of dollars in prize money at the prestigious event. All the games are held at the newly built beach tennis facility on Bushiri Beach.

Quirky fact: Over 90 nationalities make up Aruba’s 110,000 population. The native language is Papiamento, but most residents can also speak Dutch, English, and Spanish.

Slogan: ‘One Happy Island’.

Aruba is open to tourists, but because of COVID-19 restrictions, you should visit the official Aruba tourism website for up-to-date travel information.

Sources: Visit Aruba and Aruba.com.

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