Aruba

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Destinations

The Caribbean

Destination Facts

Passports and Visas
Passport required for entry.
Health Information
No vaccinations required for entry.
Time
EST + 1 hour, Daylight Savings is not observed.
Electricity
Aruba runs on a 110-volt cycle. Outlets are usually the two-prong variety.
Languages Spoken
The official language is Dutch, but most everyone on the island speaks English.
Currency
The Aruban guilder or florin.
Gratuity Tips
Restaurants generally include a 10%-15% service charge on the bill. If service isn't included on a restaurant bill, a 10% tip is standard; if it is included, it's still customary to add something extra, usually small change. Taxi drivers expect a 10%-15% tip, but it isn't mandatory. Porters and bellmen should receive about $1 per bag; chambermaids about $1 a day.
Taxes and VATS
Hotels usually add an 11% service charge to the bill and collect a 6% government tax. For purchases you'll pay a 6.5% ABB tax (a value-added tax) in all but the duty-free shops.
Banks, Credit Cards, ATMs
US dollars are accepted virtually everywhere. Traveler's checks and major credit cards are also widely accepted (with ID). ATM machines can be found at major malls or along roads leading to the hotel strip. Bank hours are weekdays 8:15 - 5:45, some banks close from noon to one.
Driver License Requirements
An international driving license or any valid driver's license is required. Arubans drive on the right-hand side of the road.
Clothing Requirements
For the lovely beaches and sunny weather bring lots of beachwear. A lightweight sweater or sweatshirt is recommended for the evenings, which can be cooler.

Aruba is a bright and breezy Caribbean island with year-round sunshine, amazing azure water, beaches that glitter by day and casinos that glitter by night. This island paradise offers you with a colorful world away from home - with so much to do and it's the perfect place to do nothing at all. Relax on pristine beaches, scuba dive in the crystal clear waters, sail around the island to catch breathtaking views, visit natural bridges and pools or experience the island's winding roads on horseback or ATV. Great cuisine and nightlife keep you exhilarated long after the sun is gone. Aruba is a great place for dream vacation to experience with your new husband or wife.

Highlights

Historical Museum-Situated in the oldest building in Aruba, Fort Zoutman and Willem 111 Tower, the historical museum offers a fascinating collection of articles from the island's earliest times through early Spanish and Dutch periods, and onwards to present times
Numismatic Museum-30,000 historic coins from Aruba and around the world
Archaeological Museum-In addition to ancient artifacts, pottery tools and art, this museum's five rooms exhibit giant earthen jars of which a few contain the remains of Aruba's original inhabitants
Theme Nights-take place at local establishments and on any given night, you can catch parties with themes such as Aruba's spectacular Carnival, the island's thrilling pirate history or the traditional favorite limbo night!

Geography/Environment

Aruba lies at the heart of the southern Caribbean, about two-and-a-half hours by air from Miami, Florida and 15 miles north of Venezuela. The island is 19.6 miles long, and six miles across at its widest point, with a total area of 70 square miles. The island itself is quite arid. With steady winds, and little rainfall, Aruba can be described as the classic Dessert Island. However, the numerous resort properties have created lush oceanfront environments that give Aruba the tropical feel that travelers crave.

Activities

Aruba offers travelers many activities both at sea and on land including diving, wind surfing, golf, horseback riding, tennis, fishing, underwater tours, casinos and more.

Climate and Weather

Temperatures vary little all year. Average daytime temps (ºF) are in the 70's and 80's that dip into the 60's and 70's at night. January through June is the best time to visit but since Aruba is outside the hurricane belt, fall is fine too.

Other Important Information

More Aruba resources at Amazon.com.

Destination Wedding Information

Civil marriages are allowed in Aruba.

Waiting Period: all documents to be submitted at least one month prior (by courier) to the desired wedding date

Apostille documentation from country of citizenship verifying neither party is currently married
Civil marriages are performed in the salon of the historic City Hall building in downtown Oranjestad
If you are staying at a resort, consult with the manager or wedding coordinator to help you make arrangements to secure your marriage license

Fees:

US $80 during the week; US $200 Saturdays, holidays or after office hours
Marriage booklet (certificate) US $20.00 or US $32.00 (price difference is based on better quality of one booklet)

Identification:

Copies of birth certificates with raised seal
Proof of divorce or death certificate
Must hold a valid passport and submit copies

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Resources

Destinations

Destination Facts

Aruba

Aruba

Highlights

Geography/Environment

Activities

Climate and Weather

Other Important Information

Destination Wedding Information