Welcome to the r/Aruba monthly Discussion / Q&A thread! This space is dedicated to general discussion and answering your pressing questions about Aruba, especially those that don’t quite need a dedicated thread of their own. Whether you’re curious about local tips, where to find the best bites, or what spices are a must-try, this is your go-to spot. The community here is always ready to share insights and help you make the most of your Aruba experience.
What to Bring and Prepare Before Visiting Aruba?
When planning your trip to Aruba, a few essentials can significantly enhance your experience. First off, it’s a great idea to bring along some cash. This comes in handy for tipping at restaurants, paying small fees to use beach bathrooms, and making minor purchases, especially since some establishments might have minimum credit card limits. Given Aruba’s abundant sunshine, sunscreen and hats are not just recommended, but truly essential to protect yourself from the strong Caribbean sun. For those planning on hiking or engaging in other outdoor activities, remember to pack water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized. Also, if your adventures include exploring rocky areas like cave pools, water shoes will be your best friend, providing comfort and protection.
Understanding the ED Card
Before you can step onto Aruba’s beautiful shores, you’ll need to complete the Embarkation/Disembarkation (ED) card. This is a mandatory pre-registration form for all visitors. You can easily find the official form and more information on their website edcardaruba.aw. For non-residents, there’s a sustainability fee of $20 USD per year, which helps support the island’s conservation efforts.
All-Inclusive Resorts: The Aruba Perspective
While all-inclusive resorts are popular in many destinations, they are generally not the most recommended option for a trip to Aruba. The island boasts an incredibly safe environment, an incredibly vibrant local dining scene, and numerous opportunities for independent exploration. Unlike some destinations where staying within a resort is preferred, Aruba encourages visitors to venture out. Renting a car, for instance, allows you to discover diverse restaurants, hidden gems, and beautiful public beaches all around the island. Many travelers find that exploring independently provides a more authentic and deeply fulfilling vacation experience, often proving more cost-effective than an all-inclusive package when considering all that Aruba has to offer.
Top Snorkeling Spots in Aruba
Aruba is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, making it a snorkeler’s paradise. If you’re looking for the best spots to don your mask and fins, we highly recommend Tres Trapi, known for its shallow, calm waters and sea turtles. Boca Catalina is another fantastic choice, particularly if you visit early in the morning, ideally between 6 AM and 8 AM, when the water is calmest and marine life is most active. For families or those new to snorkeling, Baby Beach offers incredibly shallow and clear waters, especially near the rocks, making it perfect for a relaxed and safe experience.
Exploring Conchi/Natural Pool via Daimari Beach
For the adventurous at heart, a trip to the Conchi/Natural Pool by Daimari Beach is an unforgettable experience. It’s accessible via a hike from Daimari Beach or the nearby horse ranch. Depending on your pace and familiarity with the trail, this trek typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes each way. Do be aware that the path is quite rugged, with rocky terrain and some steep sections. There’s also very little shade along the way, so proper footwear and plenty of water are absolutely essential. To beat the heat and avoid crowds, it’s best to start your hike early in the morning, ideally around 7 AM to 8:30 AM. Using navigation apps like AllTrails can be incredibly helpful to ensure you stay on the correct path. Remember, access to this area requires a park pass from Arikok National Park’s visitor center, which opens at 8 AM. Here’s a tip: you can purchase your day pass the day before to save time. Hiking later in the day is strongly discouraged due to the intense heat.
Unique Animal and Nature Experiences
Beyond the beaches, Aruba offers some delightful opportunities to connect with its unique wildlife. Visiting the Donkey Sanctuary comes highly recommended for a fun and truly unique experience. It’s a wonderful way to learn about the island’s history and interact with these gentle creatures in a caring environment.
Dining and Shopping at Aruba Airport
Before or after your flight, you might be wondering about amenities at the airport. You’ll be pleased to know that Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA) is quite a lively hub. It features a variety of shops and restaurants both before and after customs, offering plenty of options for a meal, a snack, or some last-minute souvenir shopping.
Currency: USD or Florin?
When it comes to currency, ease of use is key. The good news is that US dollars are widely accepted everywhere in Aruba. Therefore, bringing USD is the most convenient option for your visit, eliminating the need to exchange currency.
Grocery and Alcohol Prices in Aruba
For those planning to stock up on groceries or beverages, it’s helpful to know what to expect. Generally, grocery prices in Aruba are quite comparable to those you would find in major North American cities. This includes everything from fresh produce to pantry staples and snacks. When it comes to alcohol, you’ll find a range of options, and prices can vary depending on the type of beverage and where you purchase it.
Is Bottled Water Necessary in Aruba?
One of the best surprising facts about Aruba is its tap water. There’s absolutely no need to buy bottled water during your stay! Aruba’s tap water is sourced from desalinated seawater, processed through a state-of-the-art reverse osmosis system. This process results in water that is not only incredibly clean but also remarkably tasty. Many visitors even find it superior to regular tap water in other parts of the world and often choose to refill their own bottles with it. It’s a sustainable choice that also saves you money!
You might also want to check the Wiki/FAQ for more detailed information that might already be available.
FAQ from Previous Threads
Here are some frequently asked questions from previous discussions, offering quick answers to common queries:
What should I bring or prepare before visiting Aruba?
Bring cash for tipping, beach bathroom fees, and small purchases, as some places have minimum credit card limits. Use sunscreen and hats due to the strong sun. Bring water and snacks if hiking or doing outdoor activities. Water shoes are helpful for rocky areas like cave pools.
What is the ED Card?
The Embarkation/Disembarkation (ED) card is a pre-registration form required to enter Aruba. The official site is https://edcardaruba.aw. For non-residents, there’s a $20 USD sustainability fee per year.
Are all-inclusive resorts recommended in Aruba?
All-inclusive resorts are generally not recommended in Aruba because the island is very safe and offers a vibrant local dining scene, beautiful public beaches, and plenty of opportunities to explore independently. Renting a car and experiencing the diverse restaurants and hidden gems around the island usually provides a more authentic and fulfilling vacation. Many travelers find all-inclusive options limiting and less cost-effective given what Aruba has to offer.
What are good snorkeling spots in Aruba?
The best snorkeling spots recommended are Tres Trapi, Boca Catalina (best in the morning around 6-8 AM), and Baby Beach, especially near the rocks.
How do I get to Conchi/Natural Pool by Daimari beach?
It is possible to hike from Daimari Beach or the horse ranch, which typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes each way depending on your pace and familiarity with the trail. The path is rocky, steep in some places, and mostly exposed with little to no shade, so good footwear and plenty of water are essential. Starting early in the morning around 7 to 8:30 AM is recommended to avoid the heat and crowds. Using navigation apps like AllTrails can be very helpful to stay on the correct path. Access to the trail requires a park pass from Arikok National Park’s visitor center, which opens at 8 AM (TIP: You can buy a day pass a day before). Hiking later in the day is not advised due to the heat.
Are there any notable animal or nature experiences?
Visiting the Donkey Sanctuary is highly recommended for a fun and unique experience.
Are there food and shopping options inside the airport?
Yes, the Aruba airport has a variety of shops and restaurants both before and after customs, making it a lively place with plenty of options.
What type of cash is best to bring to Aruba? US dollars or Florin?
US dollars are accepted everywhere in Aruba, so bringing USD is most convenient.
How expensive are groceries and alcohol in Aruba?
Groceries are similar in price to major North American cities.
Is it necessary to buy bottled water in Aruba?
No, it is not necessary to buy bottled water in Aruba. The tap water is desalinated seawater, processed through reverse osmosis, and considered very clean and tasty. Many travelers refill their own bottles with tap water and find it better than regular tap water elsewhere.
References
Reddit r/Aruba Community Discussions
Aruba ED Card Official Website
Arikok National Park Information
AllTrails Hiking App Data
Aruba Donkey Sanctuary Official Website
Plan Your Unforgettable Aruba Adventure
Now that you have a wealth of information at your fingertips, it’s time to stop dreaming and start planning your perfect Aruba getaway. Whether you’re seeking tranquil beach days, thrilling snorkeling excursions, authentic culinary experiences, or unique wildlife encounters, Aruba promises an unforgettable escape. Dive into the local culture, explore hidden gems, and let the warmth of the island embrace you. Don’t just visit Aruba; immerse yourself in its magic. Start planning your journey today and discover why so many fall in love with the “One Happy Island.” Your extraordinary adventure awaits!
