Aruba

On New Year’s Eve, groups of Arubans move through neighborhoods singing traditional songs called Dande, carrying a pole decorated with ribbons and a lantern. Householders open their doors, listen, and offer blessings or small gifts in return. The Aruba Tourism Authority documents this as a living custom that blends Indigenous and African influences. It’s a practice that unsettles the island’s popular slogan — “One Happy Island” — which implies a simplicity that Aruba’s real history doesn’t support. The Caquetio Arawaks arrived on Aruba between 2500 BC and 1000 AD, possibly as fugitives from the Carib tribes. They survived through

Aruba, famed for its pristine beaches and year-round sunshine, faces a crucial juncture. While tourism undeniably fuels its economy, the island is increasingly aware of the need to cultivate and protect its unique cultural identity in a rapidly globalizing world. This requires moving beyond a purely transactional relationship with tourism and fostering a deeper appreciation for Aruban heritage, arts, and traditions, ensuring they thrive for generations to come. Strengthening the Foundation: Education and Awareness One of the most effective ways to safeguard Aruban culture is through education. Integrating local history, language (Papiamento), and traditions into the school curriculum is

Aruba’s indigenous art might not be as well-known as some of the island’s beautiful beaches, but it tells a powerful story about the island’s original inhabitants, the Arawak Indians (specifically the Caquetío people). This art, expressed through pottery, rock carvings, and weaving – all imbued with deep symbolism – offers a fascinating glimpse into their daily lives, beliefs, and connection to the natural world. Let’s dive deep into understanding these captivating art forms and how they contribute to the vibrant culture of Aruba. Unearthing Aruba’s Artistic Roots: The Caquetío Legacy Before the arrival of European colonizers, the Caquetío people

In 2017, Aruba became one of the first Caribbean islands to ban single-use plastic bags. The government expanded that ban in 2020 to include plastic straws, cutlery, stirrers, foam containers, and decorative items like balloons and confetti. These legal shifts were not isolated policy moves — they emerged from decades of community organizing, hotel-led initiatives, and a growing recognition that the island’s economy depends on the health of its coastline and reefs. This article traces how sustainability became a shared cultural practice in Aruba, what specific initiatives look like on the ground, and where the island still faces unresolved