Aruba flights and travel guide

Language

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.

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Communications

The international access code for Aruba is +297. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 001 for the United States). City codes are not required. International, direct and operator-assisted calls are possible worldwide. A GSM network covers the island. Cellular phones are available for rental andInternet cafes are widely available in tourist areas.

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Tipping

A 10 or 15 per cent tip is usually added to restaurant, bar and room service bills in most hotels, otherwise a tip should be added to the bill (usually 10-20 per cent depending on service). There is an 11 per cent room tax on hotel bills. Taxis should be tipped around 15 per cent and porters expect a tip of US$1 per bag.

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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.

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Health

There are no special health requirements for visitors to Aruba, but travellers coming from countries in Africa or the Americas infected with Yellow Fever, aged over six months, need an immunisation certificate. Aruba has experienced occasional outbreaks of Dengue Fever, a flu-like illness transmitted by Aedesmosquitoes that favour densely populated areas, therefore the use of insect repellent is advised. Visitors are warned that some types of fish, including some tropical reef fish, are poisonous when eaten, even cooked. Health insurance is recommended. Food and water are considered safe.

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Electricity

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

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