Aruba

Getting around Aruba is remarkably straightforward, but your choice of transport depends on your itinerary. For those staying primarily around the High-Rise hotel area of Palm Beach or the Low-Rise area of Eagle Beach, the Arubus is a reliable and affordable option. A single fare costs approximately 4.50 AWG (about $2.50 USD), and you can purchase a 'smart card' for multiple trips at the main station in Oranjestad. However, to truly explore the hidden gems like Baby Beach or the rugged north coast, renting a car is highly recommended. Most international driving licenses are accepted, and traffic moves on the right side of the road.

To navigate the winding roads and find local landmarks without getting lost, ensure you have reliable data. It is wise to buy and activate a Hello eSIM before you land at Queen Beatrix International Airport. This allows you to bypass expensive roaming charges and have instant access to maps the moment you clear customs. If you are traveling with friends, you can use the Hello app to organize your daily driving routes within your trip plan, ensuring you don't miss the colorful murals of San Nicolas or the California Lighthouse at sunset.

Aruban cuisine is a flavorful melting pot of Dutch, Spanish, and Caribbean influences. Start your morning like a local with a pastechi—a deep-fried pastry filled with cheese, meat, or fish, usually costing around 3.50 AWG to 7.00 AWG ($2.00–$4.00 USD). For a traditional dinner, seek out Keshi Yena, a savory dish of spiced meat stuffed inside a Gouda cheese shell. One of the most authentic experiences is found at Zeerovers in Savaneta; it’s a no-frills, dockside eatery where you buy the catch of the day by weight, along with sides of pan bati (Aruban cornbread) and plantains.

Since many local eateries are cash-heavy or operate in the local Aruban Florin, managing your finances is key. You can use the Hello app to track your spending in AWG, helping you stay on top of your daily food allowance. When dining out with a group at upscale spots in Oranjestad, the app’s expense splitting feature is incredibly useful for dividing the bill fairly, especially when factoring in the standard 15% service charge often added to restaurant checks. This keeps the focus on the delicious food rather than the math.

While the white sands of Eagle Beach are world-famous, nearly 20% of the island is occupied by the Arikok National Park. This desert-like landscape offers a dramatic contrast to the resort zones, featuring limestone caves, ancient Arawak petroglyphs, and the famous Conchi (Natural Pool). Entry to the park is approximately 20 AWG (about $11 USD) per person, which goes directly toward conservation efforts. Because the terrain is rocky and challenging, a 4x4 vehicle is mandatory if you plan to drive yourself to the Natural Pool; otherwise, many local operators offer guided UTV tours.

Safety and preparation are paramount in the park’s arid climate. Use the Hello app to build a detailed itinerary that includes plenty of time for hiking the Miralamar trail before the midday heat peaks. Since cellular reception can be spotty in the deep valleys of the park, having your Hello eSIM active ensures you can quickly reconnect as soon as you reach higher ground or return to the main park entrance. Don't forget to pack plenty of water and high-SPF sunscreen, as the Aruban sun is deceptively strong due to the constant, cooling trade winds.