Practical info Aruba, Aruba
Getting around the city
Hiring a car is a great way to get around the island, and many companies offer three-day specials for such excursions; however, travellers planning to stay on or near a resort will quickly find they don't really need a car. Aruba has a good bus system that connects most hotels with downtown Oranjestad, running roughly every 30 minutes from 8am to 6pm and every hour from 6pm to midnight, Monday through Saturday. Taxis are also available (although hard to hail, so it's best to have the hotel or restaurant call for one), and a preferable mode of transport after dark. There are no meters but drivers have a list of official fares.
Time
GMT -4
Electricity
Electric current in Aruba is 127 volts, 60Hz. Flat two and three-pin plugs are standard.
Currency
The official currency is the Aruban Florin (AWG). The Florin is tied to the US Dollar. US currency is accepted everywhere and other major currencies can be exchanged at banks. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted and there are ATMs in Oranjestad.
Communication
The international dialling code for Aruba is +297. Internet cafes, as as well as hotels with free wifi, are widely available. The Aruba Tourism Authority has also introduced free wifi zones in renowned tourist areas on the island.
Emergency number
Emergencies: 911
Travel documents and health
Queen Beatrix International Airport
Getting to the city
Local buses leave regularly to Oranjestad from bus stops just outside the airport property. Tour buses can take passengers to their required destination. Taxis are also available.
Car rental
Car rental companies represented at the airport include Avis, Alamo, Budget and Hertz.
Airport taxi's
Taxis are available from the airport. Additional fees may be levied for extra luggage, public holidays and night time fares.
Facilities
The airport has a variety of shops including duty-free shopping, several restaurants and snack bars. A bank offers banking services seven days a week. A VIP lounge is available.
Parking
Short- or long-term parking is available with hourly rates beginning at AWG 3 and daily rates starting at AWG 30.
Internet
Free wifi is available.