Drinking laws vary in different countries. As a tourist, you want to ensure that you and your company abide by these laws to avoid getting into trouble on vacation. Besides the long stretches of white sandy beaches, there are lots of restaurants and other amenities where you can enjoy food and drinks. However, to enjoy alcoholic drinks you have to be of legal age.
The legal drinking age in Aruba is 18 years. Depending on how mature you look, you might be served an alcoholic drink. This means that the locals are not as strict about selling alcohol. It’s rare for someone to ask you for identification to verify your age in Aruba.
So, what other laws should you know as a tourist in Aruba?
- You must be 18 years to enter a casino
- Marijuana and other drugs are illegal in Aruba
- Littering is highly frowned upon, and you will pay a significant fine for leaving trash on the beach
- Single-use plastics such as straws, cups, bags are banned
Can You Drink on the Beach in Aruba?
During the recent pandemic, an alcohol ban in all public places in Aruba was issued. You can only drink alcohol in a licensed establishment like a bar or restaurant. Drinking on the beach, parking lot, or the park is illegal. Previously, you could buy your drinks, find a sunny spot anywhere on the island and enjoy your beverage.
What to Drink in Aruba?
As a tourist, part of what enhances your experience is the local food and drinks. One of the most popular alcoholic drinks in Aruba is the Aruba Ariba. It is a strong mixture of several drinks with a local secret ingredient called Coecoei.
The official local beer is Balashi or Amstel Bright. You can find these drinks and many other wines, beer, and spirits in every restaurant and liquor store on the island.
Besides the drinking laws, there are other things you should know as a first-time tourist to this beautiful island. Keep reading to find out.
When Should You Go to Aruba?
Aruba is an attractive location to most tourists because of the weather. However, you should know the high and low seasons of traveling to Aruba. January to March is the high season so expect to pay more for accommodation because of the high demand.
If you are a traveler on a budget, the best time to visit Aruba is between April and September. While other Caribbean islands are on high alert because of hurricane season, Aruba still maintains great weather. There will be rains here and there, but you will still enjoy great sunsets, warm weather, and low hotel rates during spring and summer in Aruba.
What Language do You Speak in Aruba?
Communication can be a serious barrier as a tourist. Aruba is a Caribbean Island with Dutch, English, Spanish, African, Portuguese, and French influences. The locals speak Papiamento, a creole language, but if you speak English, Spanish, French, or Portuguese, you can communicate with the locals and maximize your experience on the island.
English is the main language spoken in many tourist resorts in Aruba, so don’t stress trying to learn a new language to enjoy your vacation.
What Currency is Used in Aruba?
The US dollar is widely accepted in Aruba, but the Florin the local currency of the island. Aruban banks also exchange other currencies like Euros so you can obtain cash with your American Express Card, Master Card, Visa, and Western Union.
It is advisable to check with your bank whether your card is compatible with Aruba’s Cirrus or Visa Plus system before traveling to the island. Some ATMs will give you cash in US dollars, but most will give you money in the local currency, Florin.
The major banks are open at the airport from 8 am to 4 pm in case of any issue. However, they open from 10 am to 6 pm on the weekends. Note that some banks have several branches around the island, so you don’t have to go to the airport.
Note that Aruba is an expensive island, and experienced travelers advise that you don’t use the Florin because you can get a better deal using other types of currency.
Do You Need A Visa to go to Aruba?
Americans, Canadians, EU citizens, and most South Americans do not need a visa to enter Aruba. However, you need a valid biometric passport for the duration you intend to be visiting the island. Additionally, your passport has to be less than ten years old.
Other entry requirements include:
- Proof of why you are visiting the island. This could be an invitation from friends or family, a hotel reservation, or a vacation rental.
- You must show that you can return to your native country or transit through another country with a valid passport, residence permit, or visa.
- Proof of funds to sustain you during your stay on the island
- You should not be considered a threat to national security, public order, public health, or international relations.
Should You Rent a Car in Aruba?
If you want to explore the island independently, rent a car. Fortunately, people in Aruba drive on the same side as the US, so it’s like being home. However, public transport is pretty reliable in Aruba. The bus lines go through the major beaches, and you can easily get a taxi in popular tourist areas. If you want to keep fit during your stay, walking is also an option. It only takes about 20 minutes to walk through Palm beach.
Note that driving in Aruba will require you to study the road rules because they are different from the US. For example, you cannot turn on a red light in Aruba. Therefore, if you want to drive around during your stay on the island, ensure you study the street rules and signs.
You Can Drink Tap Water in Aruba?
Did you know that Aruba has some of the cleanest water in the world? There is no fresh water source on the island, so seawater is distilled in a desalination plant. The water produced from this process is pure and meets the highest quality standards of the World Health Organization (WHO).
Since you will be on the move often, it is advisable to carry a refillable bottle instead of buying bottled water in the supermarket. Tap water is free and available throughout the island, and you will be practicing sustainability by minimizing plastic use on the island.
Is Aruba a Safe Island?
Aruba ranks highest among the safest Caribbean islands regarding petty and violent crime. Safety is one of the reasons Aruba is nicknamed ‘one happy island.’ Besides that, Aruba is among the Caribbean islands least likely to get hit by hurricanes. This is because the island is located south of the hurricane belt.
This doesn’t mean that a hurricane cannot hit the island. In fact, in 2007, Aruba was mildly hit by hurricane Felix, a level two storm that caused minor damage. Compared to other Caribbean islands, Aruba is the safest bet to enjoy your vacation.
Are you planning a trip to Aruba? With the above information, you have an idea of what to expect. Aruba is a beautiful island where you have more to explore than drinks and food. The Carnival season starting from November is not something you want to miss.