Travel to Aruba increased by 13% in 2023, with the island welcoming nearly 1.2 million tourists to its white sand beaches.
While a hot spot for Caribbean travel, the 75 square mile island has a lot of secrets and surprises for travelers to experience when visiting.
From its desert-like climate to unexplored beaches, the Caribbean’s happiest island has some of the region’s most unique cultural and natural offerings. While many people know about its nearly perfect weather, we wanted to share some of Aruba’s overlooked experiences.
- Aruba is a desert island: While other Caribbean islands are known for their tropical climate and unpredictable weather, Aruba’s has a dry, desert-like climate. The island hardly ever experiences rain, boasting the most sunny days in the Caribbean, which might be one of the reasons why it is the happiest island in the world.
- Language in Aruba: Many Arubans are polyglots, with natives speaking up to four different languages. Dutch and Papiamento are the most popular, but Spanish and English are often spoken on the island, as well. While unique for such a small island to have so many languages, it makes it even easier for travelers to communicate with locals in their native language.
- Aruba’s Very Own National Park: Caribbean travelers are often resigned to long, relaxing days on the beach. While there are plenty of amazing beaches to lounge on in Aruba, the island is also home to Arikok National Park. The park, which covers 20% of Aruba, is situated on the island’s east coast and is home to caves, unique land formations, and cultural heritage sites.
- Aruba’s Culinary Culture: While the island’s resorts have brought some amazing dining experiences to its shores, Aruba has its own unique culinary heritage. Taking influences from the many cultures that make up the island, standout Aruban dishes include Keshi Yena, a large round ball of cheese stuffed with spicy meat; Pastechi, essentially an empanada typically eaten for breakfast; and Dutch Split Pea Soup, inspired by its colonial past.
- Explore Aruba’s Deserted Northeast Coast: Overlooked by the island’s beachfront resorts, Aruba’s Northeast Coast provides travelers with an off-the-beaten-path experience. With the help of a local 4×4 rental service, travelers can access this under-touristed area to experience private beaches and visit abandoned bars.
When visiting Aruba, travelers should look no further than The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba. Perched along the soft sands of Palm Beach, The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba embodies the rich spirit of this beautiful Caribbean Island. This Aruba beachfront resort features contemporary guest rooms, two swimming pools, a collection of five dining options, a luxurious 13-treatment room spa, a state-of-the-art fitness center and a 24-hour casino.
