Cruisin’ in Aruba: Your Cool Guide to Driving on One Happy Island

Palm Beach Aruba

By Caribbean Blogger |

Hey there, road trippers! So, you’re thinking about hitting the road in Aruba? Buckle up ’cause you’re in for a treat! Let me take you on a spin through everything you need to know about driving on this slice of paradise.

Scenic Routes that Make You Go Wow!

First off, picture-perfect scenery is pretty much everywhere in Aruba. But if you’re up for a drive that’ll leave you breathless (in a good way), head up north from Oranjestad towards the California Lighthouse. This coastal road is like a postcard come to life—crystal-clear waters on one side and rugged cliffs on the other. Trust me, your Instagram will thank you.

Aruba Flamigos

Must-Visit Destinations Along the Way

Now, let’s dive deep into the destinations. Whether you’re a beach bum, a culture enthusiast, or an adventure seeker, this island’s got something special for everyone.

1. Eagle Beach and Palm Beach: Paradise Found

Imagine powdery white sands and waters so clear they’re practically see-through. That’s Eagle Beach and Palm Beach for you. These beaches aren’t just any beaches – they’re world-famous for a reason. Eagle Beach boasts the iconic Divi Divi trees bending gracefully in the breeze, while Palm Beach is where the action is with bustling resorts, water sports, especially kitesurfing and windsurfing, and vibrant beach bars. Grab a cocktail, sink your toes into the sand, and let the stress melt away.

Palm Beach

2. San Nicolas: Where Art Meets Culture

For a taste of authentic Aruban culture, make your way to San Nicolas. Known as the “Sunrise City,” this vibrant town on the southern coast is a haven for street art lovers. Wander through the streets adorned with larger-than-life murals that tell stories of Aruba’s history, folklore, and modern-day life. Every corner is a canvas, and every mural bursts with color and local flair. Don’t forget to snap some Insta-worthy shots and immerse yourself in the artistic vibe.

3. Arikok National Park: Nature’s Playground

Ready for some off-road adventure? Arikok National Park is your playground. This rugged wilderness covers almost 20% of the island, offering a diverse landscape of dramatic cliffs, desert-like terrain, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Lace up your hiking boots and explore trails that lead to ancient cave paintings, natural rock formations like the famous Natural Pool (Conchi), and stunning vistas overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Keep your eyes peeled for Aruba’s unique wildlife, including wild donkeys roaming freely. It’s a nature lover’s paradise and a glimpse into Aruba’s untamed beauty.

4. Oranjestad: Where History and Modernity Meet

No trip to Aruba is complete without a visit to its capital, Oranjestad. This colorful city blends colonial charm with a cosmopolitan vibe. Stroll along the waterfront boulevard lined with pastel-hued Dutch colonial buildings, boutique shops, and inviting cafes. Discover landmarks like Fort Zoutman, home to the Historical Museum of Aruba, and indulge in local delicacies at bustling street markets. Dive into the island’s history at the Archaeological Museum or simply people-watch in the lively plaza. Oranjestad is where Aruba’s past and present converge, offering a delightful mix of culture, shopping, and dining.

Free Trolley / Tram ride in Oranjestad

Whether you’re soaking up the sun on Aruba’s best beaches, exploring the vibrant streets of San Nicolas, trekking through Arikok National Park, or immersing yourself in the charm of Oranjestad, each destination paints a unique picture of Aruba’s allure. So, grab your sunglasses, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to discover why they call this place “One Happy Island.” 🌴

Road Rules (No Stress, Just Chill)

Okay, rules of the road. Keep it cool, folks. Drive on the right side—yeah, American style. Speed limits are in km/h, so watch those signs. Seat belts are a must (safety first, right?). Oh, and if you see a roundabout, yield to the left. It’s like a dance, just go with the flow.

Road Conditions: Smooth Sailing

Good news! The roads in Aruba are like butter – smooth and easy. They keep ’em in tip-top shape, so no pothole dodging here. Just be mindful of some one-lane roads in more rural spots, where you might need to share with the occasional local goat.

Tips for the Ultimate Road Trip

Lastly, a few tips for your road trip playlist. Gas up before you hit the road – stations are scattered around. And hydrate! It gets sunny out there.

So, there you have it. Driving in Aruba is like gliding through a dream. Scenic routes? Check. Awesome destinations? Double check. Road rules and conditions? No sweat. Now grab that rental, roll down the windows, and let Aruba work its magic on you. It’s one happy island for a reason – get out there and soak it all in! 🌴🚗

Secure your car rental in St. Croix with Thrifty Aruba, they are listed on CoolestCarib’s Network of 55+ Caribbean websites.

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About the publisher CoolestCarib

Coolstcarib.com is a website that focuses on Caribbean travel and lifestyle. It features articles, guides, and information about various destinations, activities, and culture across the Caribbean region. The website covers topics such as travel tips, local events, cuisine, attractions, and even practical advice for travelers visiting different Caribbean islands. If you’re planning a trip to the Caribbean or just curious about the region, checking out coolestcarib.com provides you with insights and inspiration for your adventure.

CoolestCarib is very well-suited for local Caribbean businesses, providing them with opportunities to list services such as restaurants, water sport rentals, car rentals, and accommodations. These business listings then appear on more than 55 reputable Caribbean websites.

Please Note:

Caribbean website creation and solutions. gandor.tv creates, hosts, maintains and promotes websites in the Caribbean

Photo Credits:

Palm Beach
Oranjestad
Flamingos

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Moving to the Island of Aruba

By CoolestCarib.com

Rodger's Beach, San Nicolas, Aruba
Rodger’s Beach, San Nicolas, Aruba

If you want to enjoy beautiful white sand beaches, friendly locals, windsurfing, kitesurfing or terrific diving – Aruba is a good place to call home (1). You may have been searching for the perfect spot in paradise to retire – or you may just be looking for adventure in a faraway and tropical country. Either way, Aruba could be the right choice for your next destination.

Though you may have spent months or years looking before deciding to choose Aruba, the process of moving can also take time. You’ll need to prepare yourself beforehand, by packing up your household and selecting a qualified international moving service provider. A key part of preparation is also getting all the required paperwork pulled together, and learning about the various import regulations and duties. Here’s most of what you need to know, in one easy guide.

What Are the Duties?

Sunset in Aruba
Sunset in Aruba

Duties can add a significant amount to the total cost of your move, but fortunately Aruba allows you to be exempted from this expense. To receive import duty exemption, there’s a handful of requirements that you must meet.

First, your primary place of residence must have been outside of Aruba, for a minimum of the last year. This means you must have lived at that address, for a minimum of 185 days in the previous 12 months. You must demonstrate that you lived there for a job, and if not – then show documentation proving you were indeed residing there (not just had an address at that location). Second, you cannot already be a resident of Aruba.

The third requirement is that the belongings you’ll be importing, be used in the same way as in the origin country. For example, if an item was for personal (not commercial) use in your previous residence, it should remain so in Aruba. Fourth, these goods are required to have been used by you, in your residence within your country of origin for at least six months. Fifth, only used goods are eligible for duty exemption (2). Finally, you’re not allowed to sell, let others borrow or even give away these items while in the country (3).

Import Regulations

A Shade Tree on a Beach in Aruba
A Shade Tree on a Beach in Aruba

Customs has some regulations that you must follow, when importing your belongings into the country. There’s a time limit to receive duty exemption, and you can’t import a shipment more than 12 months after you enter Aruba (some sources say 6 months). However, if you need more time, it’s possible that an extension may be granted by the Customs Commissioner (if you request it). You can also only receive duty exemption on two shipments total of household goods (4).

Appeal Process

If your shipment is denied duty exemption by customs, you have one month to appeal this decision (the Commissioner of Customs will make the final determination). If your appeal to the Commissioner of Customs is again denied – you have another month to appeal to the Board of Appeals in Tax Affairs. It appears that the board’s decision will be final (5).

Clearance Process

Aruba requires that you be at the point or port of entry, during the processing of your shipment. Be aware that customs has the full legal authority to examine your shipment, and this could take up to one month to complete. If your shipment violates the import regulations, the Customs Authority can impose fines or disciplinary action. Finally, you’re required to speak with the agent working on your behalf in Aruba, as soon as you enter the country (6).

What Paperwork Will You Need?

Palm Beach, Aruba
Palm Beach, Aruba

When it comes to importing your household belongings, customs requires that you provide the necessary paperwork for your shipment. This includes your passport and Original Bill of Lading (for sea shipments) or Air Waybill (for air shipments). An import declaration and Tax ID from the Tax Service Office are also required (7). An ID card may also be needed, and whether this is a separate document isn’t clear.

For census purposes, you’ll also need a Certificate of Registration from the Population Register in Aruba (customs will want this in triplicate). You’ll also need a Residence Permit from the Directorate of Alien Integration, Policy & Admission (DIMAS for short). A packing list is also mandatory documentation, along with a Household Goods Form and Exemption Declaration Form. A Duty Exemption Request Form (Form C420) should also be provided (8).

Finally, customs will need to see a comprehensive inventory, which includes monetary values for all of your items. This also must be submitted in triplicate, and it should bear your signature and the date (9).

What Are the Duties For Your Vehicle?

Sailboat Off the Coast of Aruba
Sailboat Off the Coast of Aruba

Turning from the importation of your household goods to your vehicle, you may be wondering what duties you’ll pay. You’ll be relieved to discover, that Aruba does allow you to be exempt from import duties – if you meet a single requirement. You must have owned and used the vehicle at your previous primary residence, for a minimum of the last six months.

If your vehicle successfully receives duty exemption, you’re not allowed to sell or transfer ownership of it while in the country. The vehicle also can’t be lent to others, used as security or placed in escrow. Exceptions to these rules are possible, but you must request one from the Commissioner of Customs. You also must give the Technical Department of Customs the Excise Documents for the vehicle – and you’re not guaranteed approval of your request (10).

Import Regulations For Your Vehicle

Oranjestad, Aruba
Oranjestad, Aruba

Aruba is quite open to the importation of all different types of vehicles. If you meet the requirement for exemption covered above, it’s possible to import not only your personal motor vehicle – but also your motorcycle, boat, sports craft or airplane without paying duty. Whether you can bring in more than one of these vehicles at a time isn’t specified, so speak to customs to learn more.

Another regulation imposed by customs, is that your Original Bill of Lading display the engine and chassis numbers, make, model, year and the size of the engine (11). Your shipment can also be examined by customs. Just like with your household goods, this process may take as long as one month. Also, once again if you’re found to be in violation of any regulations – you could face fines or disciplinary action (12).

What Paperwork Is Required For Your Vehicle?

J.E. Irausquin Blvd 59, Oranjestad-West, Aruba
J.E. Irausquin Blvd 59, Oranjestad-West, Aruba

Failure to provide the necessary paperwork, can delay the processing of your shipment – or cause it to be denied entry altogether. Therefore, it’s important that you have the correct documentation. According to knowledgeable international vehicle shipper A1 Auto Transport, Inc. – you’ll need to have your passport, driver’s license and proof of insurance. You’ll also need to show both the title (from the origin country) and a purchase invoice or receipt (13).

Registration from the origin country and insurance documents proving you’ve used the vehicle are also required. Finally, any paperwork that demonstrates you’ve owned the vehicle for the necessary six months to receive duty exemption, should also be provided (14). Typically, the purchase invoice is sufficient for this purpose, but you may choose to give customs additional paperwork – like your maintenance records or receipts.

Lastly, if you’ve never been to Aruba and want to experience this paradise island for a few days or weeks, we suggest you book a room at a resort on the beach and rent a car from a local car agency.

SOURCES:

(1)

https://www.royalresortscaribbean.com/top-ten-reasons-to-visit-aruba.php

(2)

http://www.iamovers.org/ResourcesPublications/CountryGuides.aspx?ItemNumber=3457

(3)

Found on Atlas Int’l “Importing Personal Property Into Aruba” page.

(4)

Ibid.

(5)

http://www.iamovers.org/ResourcesPublications/CountryGuides.aspx?ItemNumber=3457

(6)

Found on Atlas Int’l “Importing Personal Property Into Aruba” page.

(7)

http://www.iamovers.org/ResourcesPublications/CountryGuides.aspx?ItemNumber=3457

(8)

Found on Atlas Int’l “Importing Personal Property Into Aruba” page.

(9)

Ibid.

(10)

http://www.iamovers.org/ResourcesPublications/CountryGuides.aspx?ItemNumber=3457

(11)

Found on Atlas Int’l “Importing Personal Property Into Aruba” page.

(12)

http://www.iamovers.org/ResourcesPublications/CountryGuides.aspx?ItemNumber=3457

(13)

https://www.a1autotransport.com/ship-car-to-aruba/

(14)

https://www.a1autotransport.com/ship-car-to-aruba/


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Aruba Hi-Winds: A fantasy for windsurfers AND kitesurfers. July 4-8, 2019!

Thanks to their highly favorable wind and water conditions and year-round pleasant weather, Aruba is a windsurfing mecca, and for more than three decades, the sport’s largest amateur competition has been held on Aruba. Along the way, kite boarding (including foiling) was added to the competition events.

The local community embraces this sport, with many of their youth spending afternoons and weekends on the water with the wind in their sails, joined by the adults (who are still kids at heart, after all!) who love to escape the stresses of everyday life for an exhilarating session on the water. In fact, the reigning PWA 14-time World Champion is local darling Sarah-Quita Offringa.

Every year, thousands of vacationers come to the island just to windsurf, while many others have enjoyed their first experience with the sport, learning from one of the several windsurf schools on the island. And just about anyone can learn—a 30-minute session on land to learn the basics, followed by another 30 minutes of instruction in the water will have you sailing on your own the same day!

The Aruba Hi-Winds is dominated by amateur competitors classified by sex and age, but there is prize money to be won!. Race events include slalom and long-distance courses for both windsurfers and kite boarders. All events are held at Fisherman’s Huts.

Even if you are not a competitor, the atmosphere is beach electric and contagious! Not only are the competitions exciting to watch-especially the Kite Big Air competition-but the festivities surrounding the event: live concerts and beach parties, it all creates a fun beach culture to experience! There will also be a Hi-Winds Mountain Bike Race.

The Aruba Hi-Winds will take place at Fisherman’s Huts, just a skip down the beach from The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba.

For schedules, news, sponsors and more comprehensive info go to HiWindsAruba.com

Other related info:

ACCOMMODATION:
Casa Del Mar Beach Resort and Timeshare is located on Eagle Beach, just south of Palm beach. They might still have rooms available: www.CasaDelMar-Aruba.com

CAR RENTALS:
There are many car rental agencies on Aruba, but Thrifty Car Rentals may be one with a  wider variety and more available: www.ThriftyAruba.com

WINDSURFING & KITESURFING LESSONS:
Aruba being the kitesurfing and windsurfing mecca in the Caribbean you will find several windsurf and kitesurf schools on island. Vella Aruba offers it all boasting top international instructors: www.VelaAruba.comFacebooktwitterredditpinterestlinkedinmail

A Revolution to Save the Caribbean’s Coral Reefs

A Revolution to Save the Caribbean's Coral Reefs

The Nature Conservancy is launching a revolution to save our coral reefs throughout the Caribbean and beyond. Joining forces with the world’s best scientists, we are developing and deploying groundbreaking techniques to grow new corals and bring dying reefs back to life.

Learn more about how we’re fighting to save these unique and essential ecosystems before our oceans are irreversibly damaged. The Year of the Reef! Keep up with The Nature Conservancy’s latest efforts to protect nature and preserve life on Twitter (twitter) and Facebook (facebook) Text NATURE to 97779 to join The Nature Conservancy on text.

To sign-up for nature e-news visit:  support.nature.orgFacebooktwitterredditpinterestlinkedinmail

Why Aruba Is the Caribbean Island You Have to Visit in 2018

Aruba CoolestCarib Caribbean Island

An eco-friendly movement is making this the place to be for unspoiled beaches and fresh Caribbean cuisine.

The thought of Aruba conjures up images of fofoti trees leaning lazily over white sand beaches; of tangled mangroves shading still, turquoise waters. But those who venture beyond the idyllic west coast will find it’s an island of topographical contradictions: Just minutes from those familiar tropical scenes, cacti rise from arid earth while volcanic cliffs are beaten down by powerful surf to the east.

Together, these dramatic landscapes form one breathtaking isle, but they make sustainability a complicated matter. In recent years, Aruba’s government has ramped up efforts to boost local farming, chefs have begun to focus on locally grown ingredients, and more hotels have turned their attention toward eco-friendly operations.

Related: Where to Find Aruba’s Most Beautiful, Peaceful, and Hidden Beaches

But it isn’t just Arubans who feel the need to preserve their precious, limited natural resources — tourists are known to pitch in at beach and reef cleanups and embrace green initiatives like the region’s first bikeshare program as though the island were their own. Aruba attracts more repeat visitors than any other Caribbean destination, after all, and they have to make sure there will always be something to come back to.

Read Full Article on travelandleisure.com

by Nina Ruggiero

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ARUBA Without Plastic Bags since January 2017

Photo taken at Casa Del Mar Resort, Eagle Beach, Aruba.

ARUBA. It’s been nearly a year since January 1, 2017 where all retailers and vendors in Aruba were no longer allowed to distribute nor sell carry-out plastic bags at supermarkets and retail shops.

This then allows tourists and locals alike to bring or buy a re-usable bag or use a carton box to put their groceries in.

Government or city inspectors can fine retailers 10.000 Aruban Guilders (which is about $5715) if they don’t abide by the law to ban plastic bags. This law was created and accepted on 30 June 2016. However, the government gave the community until the new year to adjust to the new rules.

So far this ban and its strategy have been important in a mind- and behavioral change toward increased corporate responsibility from retailers as well as locals and tourists.

You may ask how much of a difference does a plastic bag ban can make to the environment?

It’s estimated one can save 500 to 700 plastic bags from the ocean and landfills each year by bringing your own plastic bags when shopping, according to the Plastic Pollution Coalition. If you consider these facts: Plastic is a substance the earth cannot digest and 8 million tons of plastic enter the world’s oceans every year, we’d all better start refusing single-use plastic.

According to Juliet D. Carvalhal, special coordinator of the Aruban government’s Green Agenda project, “managing waste on islands, especially those heavily dependent on tourism, has been an ongoing challenge. But then again, being an island in itself also presents the community with added motivation to apply concepts of “Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, and Respect” seeing there is limited or practically non-existent access to “Recycling” facilities.”

Reducing not only your use of plastic bags, but managing your trash can also have a big impact if it is carried out daily. Take for example founder of Trash is for Tossers website, Lauren Singer of Brooklyn, New York. Lauren has proved that she could live in one of the biggest cities in the world for 4 years without producing more than one mason jar of waste.

She suggests composting and separating trash effectively, investing in a re-usable water bottle and mason jars and making sure you pack enough bags when you go out shopping to reduce your day-to-day waste. Every little bit helps, especially if everyone does their part.

In the words of the Plastic Pollution Coalition, “let’s make plastic bags go extinct!”

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Aruba – One Happy Island

By Lizpiano.

ARUBA. This week Arubans are celebrating the return of the wind! One of the most beautiful islands you’ll ever see, here the wind never stops blowing in a, mostly, northerly direction. It is advised to wear a hat to prevent your hair from being blown into a wild, vagrant-like style. And make sure you hold on to that hat or tie it with a string to your head, naturally.

Picture of Eagle Beach

But if it weren’t for the wind, this island would be very, very hot. Unless, of course, there are hurricanes in the rest of the Caribbean occupying, so to speak,  all wind space. That is why Arubans have grown to celebrate the wind, make the most of it, they even miss it when it’s gone: “Aruba has been very hot and windstill lately, so now that the breeze has come back, the sails are out!” (Posted by @dushiyoga)

It’s been said that many a serious water sport enthusiast in Aruba have been very close to Venezuela at some point in their lives. That is, because the northerly wind might have taken them off-shore easily, especially if they are kitesurfers. It’s not that far away (about 17 miles), in fact you can see the country from Aruba.

Another good thing about Aruba is that its located at the southern edge of the Caribbean hurricane belt. So it avoids most of the hurricanes and storms that blow through the Caribbean from the Atlantic Ocean each year. So the best time to visit the island is always.

Some businesses listed on CoolestCarib.com include Casa Del Mar Aruba Beach Resort & Timeshare and Vela Aruba for kitesurfing, windsurfing, kayak rentals and lessons.

Vela Aruba

LizpianoLizpiano is a journalist, health lover and piano entertainer/singer who travels the world. She holds a B.A. degree with Music and Psychology as well as an MPhil (Masters) of Journalism. Follow her on Instagram: @lizpiano, Twitter: @thelizpiano,  Facebook: lizpiano.  www.lizpiano.comFacebooktwitterredditpinterestlinkedinmail