Aruba is a very tiny island about 25 miles long by six miles wide. It is unlike most of the Caribbean islands, because most are tropical while Aruba has more of a desert climate. Seventy square miles of the island is absolutely covered in pipe organ cactus. It's very dry and windy, so all of the Divi trees are severely bent toward the southwestern shore. Also unlike the other Caribbean Islands, Aruba is totally outside of the hurricane belt. It has never been hit. The closest hurricane was Emily which caused a little wind damage. The average temperature in Aruba is 82 degrees year round. We recommend beach attire, sandals, and sunscreen for visitors, but bring a sweater because the evening winds or an air conditioned restaurant can make you feel cold if you are sunburned.
It's very easy to get around in Aruba. How can you get lost on a 25 mile island? We have a very simplistic road structure, but I don't find that most people even need a car, because we have an excellent bus system to your hotel from the airport. The bus system also tours the island. To see the beautiful scenery on the West, North, and East Shores, you'll take the bus, rent an ATV or jeep, or ride on horseback. The North Shore has a lot of beautiful waterfalls and rock structures like natural arch bridges because of the waves hitting the rocks. It's not good for beaches. That's why all the resorts are on the sandy south side.
The native language of Aruba is known as Papiamento; however the official language is Dutch. English and Spanish are both widely spoken. Our schools teach several languages. Much of our population has traditionally been older, retired people, but I think that's changing as the island markets honeymoon packages to Americans. Aruba has very little crime and has always been considered an extraordinarily safe destination.
