It is said to be the sunniest region in the Netherlands with almost 340 days of sunshine per year and temperatures rarely below 25°C. But where can it be located? In fact, this very small territory belonging to the Kingdom of the Netherlands called Aruba is located almost 8000 km from Amsterdam in the beautiful Caribbean Sea.

A short distance north of Venezuela is a small paradise bathed in sunshine and refreshed by the trade winds, a territory with magnificent immaculate beaches and crystal clear water. With these few words one understands why many foreigners settled there in search of a quiet life in the shade of the palm trees. Tourists have also understood this and are now storming this original and exceptionally beautiful destination. Here, unlike the other Caribbean islands, the island does not have lush vegetation and tropical forest it is mainly a flat tropical desert (the highest point does not exceed 200m) and rather arid. Aruba means red gold in Spanish. Indeed, after the arrival of Europeans on the island, gold was discovered. The island of Aruba is a colourful tourist destination, the dream here is within reach. Accessible from Amsterdam by direct flight or from many US cities, it welcomes a population in search of exclusive holidays. Aruba is renowned as a fairly expensive resort. The prestigious establishments welcome a clientele with strong purchasing power, one notices it by the proposed services (casinos, spas, hammam, swimming pools with overflowing with sight on sea, flights in helicopters, cruises on board of yachts, rentals of sports cars, golf courses) and also by the numerous luxury shops (the biggest marks there have gables on street). The capital Oranjenstad with its small colonial houses of all colors offers a picturesque charm conducive to visits, walks, shopping and night outings. It has a large number of restaurants, cinemas, theatres, cabaret shows, bars and discos that will delight romantic, young and festive souls. Besides, romanticism, here, is everywhere, at the bend of a street, a path, a beach, lovers have long found in this island their favorite land. Lovers of water sports and especially windsurfing and kitsurfing will go to the north coast and take advantage of the strong trade winds to practice in ideal conditions; the best spots are on the beaches of Hadicurari and Arashi. For the amateurs of diving, cruises are organized on various exceptional sites and in particular on the famous wreck of the ship Antilla, not to be missed. The aquatic fauna is also diversified, while diving you will see many exotic fish like barracudas and other green morays. Those who wish to practice hiking and explore the preserved fauna and flora, will head to the centre of the island and on the wild coast to the Cactus and Rock National Park, Arikok. The island extends its sumptuous and long beaches on the north and west coasts, the prettiest and best for swimming are those of Eagle Beach, Palm Beach and Manchebo Beach. It is here that the main hotels and prestigious establishments have settled, to allow the traveller to be as close as possible to their moments of idleness. The climate on the island of Aruba is mild all year round, with rain appearing mainly in October and November. For example, it is advisable to plan a trip to Aruba between December and July, with August and September being the hottest months.Art and culture in Aruba The rich and tormented history has strongly influenced the behaviour, habits and traditions of the people of Aruba. The first to arrive on the island were the Arawak Indians, then the Spanish, the French, the British and finally the Dutch. The names of cities and streets are actually a mixture of all these origins. The local artists are quite numerous, they are generally present where there are tourists; in hotels, galleries close to luxury shops etc. Aruba knows craft products of all kinds (contemporary and classical paintings, clothes and fabrics...), but also very good cigars and aloe products. Spend the hottest nights in the finest nightclubs.

What to visit in Aruba
Do not miss the capital Oranjestad, its colonial buildings and luxury shops, the fort of Zoutnan, the beaches of Eagle Beach, Palm Beach, Baby Beach, Druif Beach and the island near St Nicolas. Embark a tourist submarine, Atltantis Submariner, an unforgettable experience of visiting the seabed and local wrecks. Dive on the remains of the German ship Antilla sunk during the Second World War. Here are some more natural sites: Arirok National Park, Bubali Plas Reserve, Boca Prins impressive dunes, Ayo rocks, Guadirikiri caves and ancient gold mines.

Gastronomic specialities in Aruba
Due to its dry and arid climate, few fruits and vegetables grow on the island, however due to its proximity to the many other Caribbean islands, Aruba imports very good products. The cuisine here is impressively diverse, the quality of cuisine in the restaurants is really high and many international chefs have settled in some of its hotels. The local specialities are very similar to those of the other countries of the Netherlands Antilles. There are many marinated or grilled fish and seafood, fried beans, stews of goat, lamb, chicken, beef as well as iguana associated with a kind of polenta, Funchi.