Welcome to this paradise on earth. Some people referred to this island by its name (Aruba) and some others like to call it, one happy island! In fact, did you know that Aruba has been carrying this nickname for quite a few years now?
But I can understand if this is your first time going to that side of the world, then it is an even more valid question, especially since there have been some problems in countries that are nearby, such as Venezuela.
This is why I also recommend you to always do your research, read the international and local news and have a clear picture of how safe your next destination is in comparison to where you are from or where you live.
Is Aruba safe?
Aruba is very safe, people are friendly, and there is a relaxed atmosphere overall. However, you should always use common sense, especially if you are traveling by yourself.
Continue reading and find out about what makes Aruba such a friendly and safe destination.
Why is it called ‘’one happy island’’?
Aruba gives a peace of mind experience to the tourists who dare to visit it like no other place. In fact, it can be said that this island gives people the opportunity to get in touch with nature, enjoy the company of the locals, and, above all, it makes people happy!
This is also why visitors tend to go to the island year after year, as they know they will be received greatly on one happy island. In fact, some individuals I have spoken to have told me that they feel safer in Aruba than back in their home countries.
Also, because Aruba is such a touristy island, the governments of this Caribbean paradise has made security a top priority, not only for its locals but also for all of the international visitors this island receives year after year.
Safety and Aruba’s health care
Even though Aruba is the smallest of the ABC islands that are in the Caribbean, it also has two top-notch hospitals, a walk-in clinic, and pharmacies through the island. Medical transfers are also widely available in case there is a need to have an international medical transfer for more complicated procedures that cannot be dealt with on this island.
What about Aruba’s crime rates?
I’m not going to lie, Aruba is not an exception to crime, however, this island does have a low crime rate. It’s not like nothing ever happens on the island, but they are usually petty crimes committed against naive tourists or bigger crimes committed in order to reach the locals.
Of course, you should be alert, especially during night time. And always remember that even though a place feels like home, it is not your home, so be cautious and conscious of everything that surrounds you. However, you don’t have to worry about your safety all the time. Try to enjoy your stay as much as possible, also at nighttime.
Locals are very, very friendly
And not only they are friendly but they are also helpful. If you ever need anything, people from Aruba will try to help you the best way they possibly can. This is why Aruba is such a favorite destination for tourists from all over the world, as they feel important whenever they are on the island.
So, what makes Aruba one happy island? It is definitely a combination of beautiful white-sand beaches, crystal clear water, and the friendliness of the locals. Individuals from this island are aware of the importance of tourism, as all of its economy is solely based on this sector.
As a result, local communities across the island have become official (and sometimes unofficial) tour guides, storytellers and even hosts to the tourists that come to this Caribbean gem.
Another reason for you to feel safe when traveling to Aruba is the fact that most locals speak – at least – three languages. Usually, most Arubans will speak Papiamento, Spanish, English, and Dutch, which is also an opportunity for you to practice your language skills!
Outside the hurricane belt, safe from hurricanes
Aruba is outside the hurricane belt. In other words, Aruba’s location is so privileged that you will not need to worry about some hurricane hitting the coast. This is also the reason why you can go to the island all year-round.
So, you can also feel weather safety whenever you go to Aruba, as hurricanes usually go to other areas and islands of the Caribbean, leaving Aruba untouched. You may experience rain showers but they are usually nothing to worry about and will pass within a couple of hours.
Is it safe to drink water from the tap in Aruba?
In Aruba, tap water is potable, so this means it is safe to drink directly from the tap water. You don’t need to worry about the safety of the water you will be consuming, as this water has met all the required standards set by the World Health Organization.
Not only it is ok for you to drink from there, but this will also help you save some dollars whenever you go to the shop, so think about it as a way to save money and reduce the plastic you are consuming on the island. It’s a win-win situation if you ask me.
General safety tips for Aruba
Even though Aruba is pretty safe, there are still some tips I would like to share with you, just in case you find yourself in any of these situations. What’s more, these tips can also be applied to whatever part of the world you are traveling to, and they are:
Don’t drink and drive
Even though this may seem obvious to most people, some tourists think that because they are on foreign land thus they are able to get away with things that they normally wouldn’t even think about doing back home. Make sure you stick to the Aruba traffic laws.
Drink and drive are one of them. I know you will be on your dreamed vacation, but can you imagine going behind the wheel drunk? You may even have an accident, to say the least. So, don’t ever drink and drive as it is both dangerous and illegal, and you may be compromising some else’s life.
And if you must go to a place and you are feeling quite drunk, then you can always get a tax. Taxis on the island are relatively cheap and are around 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so don’t hesitate to take one.
Take care of yourself
This involves wearing sunscreen and drinking lots of water. I know what you are probably thinking, why should I drink water if I’m on holiday? Pass me the bear and the margaritas!
But always think ahead. Think about how much you love the sun, but also how UV rays can be truly damaging to your skin, and moreover, this heat associated to Aruba’s great weather can cause dehydration, especially if you are not used to this type of weather.
Be sure to wear sunscreen (you can even buy organic sunscreen nowadays), wear comfortable clothes that will make you feel protected from the sun, and sunglasses.
Drink lots of water – in fact, you will need to remember to drink water, as you likely won’t feel like you are dehydrated as your body is probably cool, but you don’t and shouldn’t want to take the risk.
And above all…
Enjoy yourself! Enjoy your time on this beautiful island – you deserve it! Think about everything you had to go through to finally be able to enjoy this island that is located in the Caribbean.
Treat others how you would like to be treated, and above all, have fun and be happy! After all, you are in one happy island!
