Exploring the Rich History and Culture of Aruba

Exploring the Rich History and Culture of Aruba

April 17, 2023 0 By Charm San

Welcome to my travel blog about Aruba, the beautiful island located in the southern Caribbean Sea! I had the opportunity to visit this stunning destination and I am excited to share my experiences with you.

First, let’s talk about the weather. Aruba is known for its consistent year-round warm and sunny weather, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s. The island’s location outside of the hurricane belt ensures that visitors can enjoy their trip without worrying about tropical storms.

One of the highlights of my trip was exploring the beaches. Aruba is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world, with crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft white sands. Eagle Beach, Palm Beach, and Baby Beach are just a few of the many beaches that I highly recommend visiting.

Another must-see attraction is the Arikok National Park, which covers nearly 20% of the island. The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including iguanas, parakeets, and donkeys. The natural beauty of the park is breathtaking, with rugged terrain, hidden caves, and stunning views of the ocean.

For those who enjoy water sports, Aruba offers an abundance of activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, and windsurfing. I highly recommend taking a snorkeling excursion to explore the colorful coral reefs and swim with the tropical fish.

Aruba is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and casinos. I had a great time exploring the bars in Oranjestad, the island’s capital city. The local beer, Balashi, is a must-try and pairs perfectly with the island’s lively atmosphere.

Overall, my trip to Aruba was nothing short of amazing. The stunning beaches, diverse wildlife, and vibrant culture made for an unforgettable experience. If you’re looking for a tropical paradise to escape to, Aruba should be at the top of your list.

History and Culture

Aruba has a rich history and culture, shaped by its location in the Caribbean and its colonial past. Here are some key points about the history and culture of Aruba:

  1. Pre-Columbian History: The island of Aruba was first inhabited by the indigenous Arawak people, who arrived from South America around 1,000 AD. They lived on the island for centuries, fishing, hunting, and farming.
  2. Spanish Colonization: In 1499, the Spanish explorer Alonso de Ojeda arrived in Aruba and claimed it for Spain. The Spanish established a small settlement on the island, but it was abandoned after a few years.
  3. Dutch Rule: In 1636, the Dutch West India Company took control of Aruba and established a permanent settlement. The Dutch brought slaves from Africa to work on the island’s plantations and mining operations.
  4. Mining Industry: Aruba’s economy was based on gold mining and phosphate mining in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins and other historic sites on the island reflect this mining heritage.
  5. World War II: During World War II, Aruba played an important role as a supplier of oil to the Allies. The Lago Oil and Transport Company, owned by the Standard Oil Company of New Jersey, built an oil refinery on the island, which became one of the largest in the world.
  6. Independence and Autonomy: Aruba became an autonomous country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands in 1986. It has its own government and parliament, but the Dutch monarch is still the head of state.
  7. Culture: Aruba’s culture is a mix of Dutch, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences. The island has a vibrant music scene, with traditional folk music and dance, as well as more modern genres like salsa and reggae. Local cuisine includes seafood, stews, and pastries, and the island is known for its Aruba Ariba cocktail.
  8. Languages: The official languages of Aruba are Dutch and Papiamento, a Creole language that combines elements of Dutch, Spanish, and African languages. English and Spanish are also widely spoken.
  9. Festivals and Celebrations: Aruba hosts a number of festivals and celebrations throughout the year, including Carnival, Dera Gai (a harvest festival), and Bon Bini Festival (a celebration of Aruban culture).
  10. Tourism: Aruba is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and friendly locals. The tourism industry is a major part of the island’s economy.

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQ) about traveling to Aruba, along with their answers:

  1. Do I need a passport to travel to Aruba? Yes, you need a valid passport to travel to Aruba.
  2. Do I need a visa to travel to Aruba? It depends on your nationality. Citizens of many countries do not need a visa to visit Aruba for up to 90 days. Check with your country’s embassy or consulate for more information.
  3. What is the currency in Aruba? The official currency of Aruba is the Aruban florin (AWG), but US dollars are widely accepted.
  4. What is the language spoken in Aruba? The official languages of Aruba are Dutch and Papiamento, a Creole language that combines elements of Dutch, Spanish, and African languages. English and Spanish are also widely spoken.
  5. What is the best time of year to visit Aruba? Aruba is a year-round destination with warm weather and little rainfall. The peak tourist season is from December to April, when the weather is slightly cooler and less humid.
  6. Is Aruba safe for tourists? Yes, Aruba is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any destination, travelers should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.
  7. What are some popular activities to do in Aruba? Popular activities in Aruba include beach-hopping, snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing, kiteboarding, hiking in Arikok National Park, and exploring the island’s historic sites and museums.
  8. What is the local cuisine in Aruba? Aruba’s cuisine is influenced by Dutch, Spanish, and Caribbean flavors. Local specialties include seafood, stews, rice and beans, pastechis (savory pastries), and pan bati (a type of cornmeal pancake).
  9. What is the tipping etiquette in Aruba? Tipping is generally expected in Aruba, and the standard tip is 15-20% in restaurants and for other services like taxis and hairdressers.
  10. What is the voltage in Aruba? The voltage in Aruba is 110-120 volts, the same as in the United States.

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a 7-day trip to Aruba that focuses on history and nature:

Day 1: Arrival and Beach Day After arriving in Aruba, spend your first day relaxing on the beach. Head to Palm Beach or Eagle Beach, two of the island’s most popular beaches. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters or lounge on the soft white sands.

Day 2: Arikok National Park Visit Arikok National Park, which covers nearly 20% of the island. Explore the park’s rugged terrain, hidden caves, and stunning views of the ocean. You’ll also have the chance to see iguanas, parakeets, and donkeys in their natural habitat.

Day 3: Aruba Archaeological Museum and Casibari Rock Formation Visit the Aruba Archaeological Museum in Oranjestad to learn about the island’s pre-Columbian history and see artifacts from the indigenous Arawak people. Afterward, head to the Casibari Rock Formation, a unique geological formation with giant boulders that you can climb for panoramic views of the island.

Day 4: Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins and Boca Prins Explore the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, which date back to the 19th century when gold was discovered on the island. Afterward, head to Boca Prins, a stunning natural area on the northern coast of the island with dramatic rock formations and views of the ocean.

Day 5: Fontein Cave and Baby Beach Visit Fontein Cave, a unique geological formation with ancient Arawak drawings and stunning rock formations. Afterward, head to Baby Beach, a secluded beach in the southern part of the island.

Day 6: Alto Vista Chapel and California Lighthouse Visit the Alto Vista Chapel, a historic church that dates back to 1750 and offers stunning views of the island’s northern coast. Afterward, head to the California Lighthouse, a historic lighthouse built in 1914 that offers panoramic views of the island.

Day 7: Departure Day Spend your last day relaxing on the beach or exploring any spots you may have missed during your trip before departing for home.

Of course, this is just a suggested itinerary, and you can customize it to your own interests and preferences. Enjoy your trip to Aruba!

Here are some of my pictures of my visit to Aruba: