Many of the people of Aruba are a combination of European, Caribbean, South American and Far Eastern descent. As of 2018, there were 116,600 residents on the island. The seat of government for Aruba is Oranjestad, where the population is estimated to be around 30,000. The island is mostly known for its pristine sandy white beaches, shipwrecks, and wind-blasted desert scenery.
Oranjestad
Religion
The most established and widespread religion practiced in Aruba is Catholicism. Around 85% of the population declares their Catholic. Other religions exist and are practiced harmoniously on the island. In Aruba, there are Methodist, Catholic, Seventh-Day
Adventist, Baptist, Jehovah's Witness, and Evangelical churches, as well as synagogues. There is also a Baha'i Faith house of worship in Oranjestad.
Language
No matter where you’re from, it’s likely you’ll encounter someone in Aruba who speaks your language. Most of this country’s tiny population is fluent in English, Dutch, and Spanish — as well as the local Creole language, Papiamento. In fact, this nation of 112,000 is home to 90+ nationalities and ethnic groups, making it one of the most diverse islands in the Caribbean. Among them are sizable European, East Indian, Filipino, and Chinese communities, whose native traditions and cultures are all celebrated on the island.
The official languages of Aruba are Papiamento and Dutch. However, most Arubans speak at least four languages. English and Spanish are usually the other two languages spoken by the natives. Papiamento is a language derived from French, Portuguese, English, Spanish, African, and Dutch dialects.
Money
The currency in Aruba is florin (AWG). Aruban florin is divided into 100 cents. One florin is equal to 100 cents. In comparison to USD, 1 florin is equal to .56 in the U.S. or 1.79 florin is equal to $1.00. There are five coins, including 5, 10, 25 and 50 cents. Paper Aruban money comes in 5, 10, 25, 50, and 100. You can receive current currency exchange rates at www.xe.com.
Entertainment
Aruba is known for its friendly atmosphere and diversity. Depending on when you visit the island, various festivals are held each year. These festivals are often held in honor of Aruban history and mixed with modern influences. Music, dancing, traditional foods, and plenty of entertainment exist all over the island.
Aruban Festival
Want to learn a little bit more about Aruba and all it has to offer to its visitors? Check out our amazing destination guide for Aruba (by clicking on the image below) to get some more ideas on what you can do on your Aruban vacation. Then, when you are ready to plan your trip, we can help you every step of the way!
Aruba
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