IS ARUBA SAFE FOR VISITORS?

11 Nov IS ARUBA SAFE FOR VISITORS?

Is Aruba Safe?

Aruba just lifted its curfew and is beginning to unfurl the red carpet for visitors. While size of gathering restrictions are still in place the 2022 outlook for this idyllic Caribbean island is very promising with Covid 19 infections and deaths declining. If you are travelling solo or with a family and asking whether Aruba is safe, this article answers yes highlighting  safety concerns on travel, managing the searing Aruban heat, best beaches to swim, where to eat, driving, quality of drinking water and hurricanes

Location

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Situated 18 miles north of Venezuela the sun-baked island of Aruba, with Bonnaire and Curacao forms part of the ABC islands or the Dutch Caribbean. . Aruba’s development and tourism build-up has been along the sheltered western side as shown in the map above. Here most of the 116,600 population are concentrated in the capital Oranjestad and San Nicolas. The predominant language spoken on the island is a local creole called Papiamento. English however is understood in many of the tourist spots.

Aruba Is Safe for Solo Travel

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11% of all global travellers or 44.2 million people do so alone. So we understand that the needs of the solo travel market are particularly necessary to meet since a bulk of them constitute women. It’s important therefore to know if you are alone what precautions to take and whether a destination like Aruba is safe.

According to country data, Aruba’s crime levels are considered relatively low. As it relates to tourists there are only intermittent reports of theft from vehicles and bags being taken from hotel rooms. The proximity to Venezuela once made it a conduit for drug runners. However, incidents rarely include tourists and are confined to inner-city areas.

Respondents to a poll recorded a very positive outlook of 91% of the time feeling safe walking home alone at night. ,

Despite this, however, there will always be opportunists seeking to take advantage of a situation if permitted to do so. In that light, you should be more cautious in busy ‘red light’ areas such as the entertainment district of San Nicolas.

It is always a good idea to acquaint yourself with other travelers. Further, read reviews by other solo travelers to find the places you want to experience and are not prone to incidents.

Covid19 and Your Safety

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More than 75% of the Aruban population has been doubly vaccinated. This has led to Covid 19 related infections and deaths down significantly as of November 2021. This herd immunity bodes well for creating a safer environment. Consequently, there is decreased transmission risk to tourists and other persons that interact with the vaccinated local population.

All visitors are required to complete the Online ED Card Process Persons 12 and older must take a molecular Covid-19 test. This test must be taken within 72 hours of landing and results uploaded 12 hours prior to arrival. For persons unable to take an approved Covid 19 test Aruba offers a test within 4 hours of arrival in Aruba.

If you test positive you will be mandated to stay in isolation until you are declared recovered.

Visitors to Aruba must agree to government mandates and purchase mandatory health insurance. This will run you a flat cost of US$15 for a stay of up to 180 days. Travellers who are awaiting the results for Covid-19 are required to stay at a government designated isolation and quarantine location. The authorities make every effort to ensure this period does not extend beyond 24 hours.

As of 2^nd September 2021, the curfew of 10 pm to 3 am had been lifted. However, there are some restrictions to minimize the spread of Covid still in place. These include limiting seating per table and gatherings to 8 persons (excluding children), no dancing and the mandatory wearing of face masks. For up-to-date information click Aruba Entry Requirements & Travel Restrictions due to COVID-19 VisitAruba.com

Is Aruba Safe for Families to Visit?

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Mosquitos

Depending on the time of year and how much wind is at your location mosquitoes can be a little bothersome. They typically will leave you with a love bite in the early morning or late evening during the wetter months like in November. To protect yourself from being their feast apply the usual mosquito repellent 20%-30% DEET or 20% Picaridin on exposed skin. Also, utilize bed nets when provided in non-air-conditioned accommodation. If you believe you will be bitten, say at an outdoor dinner, it is also a good idea to wear neutral long-sleeved clothing.

Sun

Many of us and particularly the kids want to enjoy a full day at the beach or around the pool. But conditions can get hot particularly as Aruba is so close to the equator. With temperatures reaching 91F a long day of exposure in the sun can be detrimental. If you sunburn easily take normal precautions and protect yourself with sunscreen, shades and wide-brimmed hat. It is also advisable to drink a lot of water and to avoid direct sunlight during the hottest times of the day.

You should also be aware that a long day in the sun followed by cocktails and a meal can lead to sunstroke. Symptoms include confusion, hot skin, slurred speech and seizures. If these symptoms occur seek emergency help immediately.

Beaches and Rip Currents

The simple rule of thumb is that the beaches on the west and south sides are calmer. If you want windsurf and want to see the devastating impact of rough seas on the shore look along the north and east.

With very strong winds and undertows, weak and inexperienced swimmers are highly recommended to stay away from beaches like Boca Prins beach, on the east and northeastern side of the island.

Kitesurfers you can check out Boca Grandi and Bachelors beach on the southeastern side. Interested in a calmer swim try Arashi, Surfside, Baby, Palm, Eagle and Manchebo beaches. They have crystal clear blue waters waiting for you to plunge into. As a safety alert note that none of the beaches in Aruba offer lifeguard services.

Jellyfish

Given the number of reported incidents, this is highly uncommon in Aruba. If you feel any irritation or reddened skin come out of the water and apply saltwater or hot water rinse.

Is Aruba Safe to Drive?

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Unlike the British, in Aruba, they drive on the right side of the road, as they do in the US. Traffic lights at major intersections have been replaced by roundabouts so make sure to yield to drivers on the roundabout as they have the right of way.

Many streets in Orajenstad are one way and there is no right turn on red. Also, there are hefty fines for driving without a seat belt and being intoxicated while driving. 

When you park make sure to lock your doors and keep windows up without leaving any valuables in the car. Take your camera and grandfather watch or wedding rings with you. Otherwise, leave them in the safe back in the room.

Public transport and tram are available if you really want to explore the sights and sounds of the cityscape. If you want to be on your own time but feel a little timid, I recommend you rent a jeep/car with GPS. You will find however that after a short period you will be able to navigate unaided. Just stay at 30kmph when in the city, 60kmph out of town and 80kmph for the wider roads. Also, make sure that you check your insurance. Not only for accidents but also as to know that incidents along roads to places like the California Lighthouse and Natural Pool are not covered.

If you want to play it safer and can’t be bothered with the hassle of a car there are a number of tours with competent guides available.

Driving in the Hinterland

In the rural, seaside and interior parts of the island where it can get a little rough and tumble on the dirt roadways, it would be best to go on one of the UTV or ATV type guided excursions to places like Blackstone Beach, Secret Beach and Cave Pool. Be on the lookout for delightful donkeys grazing and iguanas crossing unexpectedly.

The city roads are well lit and most of the major attractions are located quite easily.

Taxis are unmetered so be aware of the costs to travel to your intended location. Therefore prior to boarding agree to the charge so you don’t have to squabble with the taxi driver on an unanticipated high fare.

If the car in front of you stops abruptly because the driver seems to be saying hello to a passerby don’t get upset. Just know that joival spirit is how they do it in Aruba.

Are the Foods in Aruba Safe?

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The short answer is a resounding YES!.

Like anywhere else however it is always advisable when it comes to food to have common sense. When buying food make sure it does not look like it has been sitting in the sun for too long. Don’t wait till the last minute to go to all-you-can-eat buffets at Coco Plums or Sweet Peppers. Wash your fruits and vegetables.

Another good tip is to eat (street) food being prepared fresh right in front of your eyes  You can check out Ricarepa, Scotts Brats or VIP Grill. Ensure that your servers have their Aruba Food Handlers Health Certificate, practice safe food techniques and there is evidence of sterilization.

That said if you are vegetarian, worried about your sensitive stomach, or have a finicky palette no worries Aruba has over 200 restaurants, a massive number of cafés and snack shops to choose.  There’s something for everyone.

If you are playing it safe or trying to give the kids what they know you can enjoy the middle of the road items like burgers, sandwiches and salads.

If you want to live a little more on the wild side you have influences from over 90 cultures generating an orgasmic mix of traditional food offerings miles long  There is quite an array of local food as well from Keshi Yena casserole (the national dish) to Stobas (soups) to the Keri Keri fish dish with Pica (hot sauce)  onto sweets like cocada (coconut candy). Check out very popular traditional food at Saco de Felipe

What About Hurricanes?

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Within the last 17 years, three hurricanes have touched Aruba. These were Ivan (2004), Felix (2007) and Matthew (2016). Fortunately, these hurricanes did not do any substantial damage as would have occurred in other islands. This is so because Aruba sits far south and at best on the fringe of the traditional hurricane belt. The risk therefore of a hurricane hitting Aruba during hurricane season between August and September is very low.

Arising from this very low-risk Aruba is referenced as a very safe docking port for yachties and cruise liners visiting the island.

Travel Medical Kit that Can Be Packed

Prepare for whatever life throws your way. Before setting out on your next adventure, ensure o get an AMK Travel Med Kit.

Aruba Travel Insurance

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All visitors above 14 years must purchase Aruba Visitors Insurance Covid 19 Travel Insurance. This travel insurance is at a one-time fee of US$15 for up to 180 days. This coverage will see to ICU costs and offer support up to limits for transportation, doctor consultation, isolation and testing. The total value of the coverage is not to exceed US$75,000 per insured.

Is it Safe to Drink Water from Aruba?

With no rivers, freshwater does not exist in significant quantities in Aruba. Nonetheless, the island has over 90 years of experience with desalinating seawater from beach wells. Not only does the water quality meet high standards as prescribed by the WHO (World Health Organization), it tastes really good when you drink it straight out of the tap. No need therefore to boil, sterilize or buy bottled water. Just fill up your reusable water bottle and take it to the beach or wherever else you need to go.

General Common Sense Safety Tips Before You Travel

• Credit Card Purchase Protection: Being subject to credit card fraud on vacay is never fun. So check before travel what is covered by your credit card for theft, lost and damage. Make sure you have emergency bank contact details safely tucked away in the event of an emergency. Apply this approach to your bank accounts as well.
• Baggage Loss and Delay Coverage: When travelling the chance of losing your luggage increases particularly if you have several connections. To limit your exposure consider a conversation on baggage insurance for lost bags and items with your carrier.

General Common Sense Safety Tips In Aruba

• Don’t Be Excessively Flashy: After you make a big blackjack win at Casablanca or other casino don’t flash your winnings. Wait till you get back to your room to count your bounty. That way you don’t make yourself a target. By wearing expensive jewellery and leaving cash and valuables exposed invites persons with bad intentions. So play it safe and keep your baubles out of sight.
• Take Only the Necessities and Pack Away the Rest: Those must have items like keys, wallet, ID and bank cards should be kept in a safe place.
• Don’t go overboard: Throwing all caution to the wind and doing excessively daring activities is likely to land you in trouble. Do not go off hiking in remote regions on your own unless with an experienced guide. It’s not a good idea to be in San Nicolas and partake of any illegal drugs as this will get you arrested. Avoid excessively drinking and participating in lewd or vulgar behaviour.
• Keep Track of Emergency Contacts: Key numbers only become important when you are in trouble. So be smart and record or commit to memory the most important numbers (e.g., hotel emergency numbers).
• Reef Shoes: The seabed can pose a challenge at times with sea-urchins or rocky outcrops in the water. It’s a good idea to wear reef shoes if going to be in that type of environment.
• Don’t Sit Under Coconut Trees. There is the possibility of coconuts falling.This can be very dangerout so avoid if you can.

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Learn the Lingo and Emergency Numbers

• Learn A Phrase or Two: Being able to communicate with the locals can really get you out of a jam. Help (Yuda) or How do I get to …..? (Bo ta kon por a yega na?). Similarly you can keep your phone with wifi close and use a translator to communicate more effectively.
• Know The Emergency Contac Numbers: Ambulance, Police and Fire are all reachable on 911.

Conclusion

With low crime and herd immunity from Covid 19 being attained Tourists are feeling safer and more inclined to travel to Aruba, But safety does not stop there. Aruba’s developed tourism infrastructure and approach provide proper beach, road, food and other safety measures to improve the tourist experience.

If you have travelled to Aruba or are planning to we would be happy to hear your thoughts or experiences. Please let us know in the comments section below.

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