Aruba: A Small Pearl In The Caribbean Sea
Aruba is a small island in the Caribbean Sea, located just off the coast of Venezuela. The island is only 19 miles long and 6 miles wide, making it one of the smallest islands in the Caribbean. Despite its small size, Aruba is a popular tourist destination, known for its white sand beaches, clear blue waters, and year-round sunshine and summer temperatures.
A little of history
Aruba’s history is a long and varied one, but let’s take a shorter approach. The island has been inhabited by the native Arawak people for over 2,000 years. In 1499, just seven years after Columbus disembarked in what today is the Bahamas, Aruba was claimed by the Spanish Empire, who used the island as a base for smuggling operations for decades to come.
More than a century later, in 1636, the Dutch crown took control of Aruba -along with its neighbor islands Curaçao and Bonaire- and all those territories have been under Dutch rule ever since.
A perfect destination for nature lovers and watersports enthusiasts
Aruba is a top destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The island’s clear waters and reefs are home to a variety of tropical fish and other marine life. Aruba is also a popular spot for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and other water sports.
What to see in Aruba
This paradise island, although rather small in geographical extension, has a lot to offer its visitors.
But first things first: let’s talk about accommodation. The end of the year usually offers tourists many black Friday deals to save a good deal of money. You should check all the Aruba Black Friday deals 2022 offers to make your Caribbean dreams come true.
Once this topic has been thoroughly planned, let’s keep on what you can enjoy just after arriving in Queen Beatrix International Airport.
Oranjestad
Oranjestad is the capital and largest city of Aruba. The city is located on the southern coast of the island. Oranjestad is a lively city with a diverse culture. The city’s architecture is a mix of Dutch colonial and Art Deco styles. It is also home to a number of museums, galleries, and other cultural attractions.
The city’s main shopping district is located along Front Street. Here you’ll find a variety of shops selling everything from traditional small souvenirs to designer clothes. There are a number of restaurants, cafes, and bars where tourists can enjoy the best of its gastronomy.
The city comes alive at night, with a lively nightlife scene.
Eagle Beach
Eagle Beach is one of Aruba’s most popular beaches. The beach is known for its white sand and clear blue waters. Eagle Beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the Caribbean ever present sun. The beach is also a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and windsurfing, since tides are usually moderate to strong.
Eagle Beach is located on the west coast of the island, 6 miles northwest of the center of Oranjestad. This beach is accessible by bus or taxi from Oranjestad, in just a 10-minute trip. Locals often go there by bicycle or even on foot.
There are a number of hotels and resorts located near the beach. Eagle Beach is also a place with a number of tourist-oriented restaurants and bars.
Aruba’s Beaches
Aruba is home to some of the best beaches in the Caribbean. The island’s beaches are known for their white sand, clear blue waters, and year-round sunshine. Aruba’s beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and windsurfing.
Aruba has over 30 beaches to choose from. Some of the most popular beaches include the aforementioned Eagle Beach, Palm Beach, and Hadicurari Beach. Being such a small island -20 miles long, 6 miles wide- all beaches are easily accessible by bus or taxi from Oranjestad. There are a number of hotels and resorts located near the beaches.
Noord
Noord is a small town located on the northern coast of Aruba. The town is known for its beaches, restaurants, and bars. Noord is also home to a number of hotels and resorts.
Noord’s main shopping area is located along L.G. Smith Boulevard. Here you’ll find a variety of shops selling souvenirs, clothing, and other items. Visitors can enjoy restaurants, cafes, and bars in this little town that really comes alive at sunset, with a lively nightlife scene.
