Name: Aruba

Language: Dutch and the local language of Papiamento. Most Arubans speak at least 4 languages including English and Spanish. Although in use as the native language for 300 years, Papiamento was only declared Aruba's official language, alongside Dutch, as of March 19, 2003.

Location: Aruba is located in the heart of the southern Caribbean, 15 miles (20 kilometers) off the coast of Venezuela. It is 19.6 miles (30 kilometers) long and 6 miles (9 kilometers) across, at its widest point, with an area of approximately 70 square miles (184 square kilometers).

Climate: A year round sunny climate with average temperatures of 82ºF (28ºC), with cooling trade winds and the rarity of tropical storms and hurricanes. Aruba lies outside the hurricane belt. Rainfall is very moderate, averaging about 16.1" (408.9 mm) per year.

Entry: As of July 1, 2006, visitors to Aruba as a tourist may do so for a period not exceeding 30 days. A valid passport is required which should be provided with a visa for Aruba. The passport must be valid for at least more than 3 months than the return travel date mentioned on the visitor's ticket. Also required is
• The necessary documents for returning to the country of origin (valid permanent resident document);
• The visitor has to be able to show to the immigration officer (if so requested) that he has a valid reservation for an (hotel/appartment) accommodation in Aruba or that he has sufficient financial resources to provide in his cost of living during his stay;
• Return or onward ticket and other documents required for the next destination (visa etc.);
• A completely filled out and signed ED-Card which you will receive on the aircraft

Please note that travel insurance is presently being considered as a requirement.

20 July 2008