Major credit cards are almost universally accepted in Aruba. Visa and MasterCard seem to dominate the landscape, with Discover making a comeback and American Express being at times shunned due to the alleged fees it charges.
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Both are commonly-accepted forms of payment in Aruba, so it depends on your preference and the specific circumstances. Credit cards can be a convenient and safe way to make purchases, but having cash on hand is always a good idea, especially if you plan to visit less touristy areas.
In Aruba it's not mandatory to tip, but it's your choice if you do so. However, some restaurants and bars add service charge to your bill. Usually, this adds up to about 10 to 15 percent on food and beverages. If you really like the service, you can still tip, of course!
Advantages of using cashIf your spending discipline breaks down when you use credit cards, cash may be a better choice while you let loose on vacation. No foreign transaction fees: Many credit cards charge an extra fee of up to 3% on purchases made outside the country, although you can find cards that don't.
A quick-drying microfiber towel. While many resorts provide beach towels, a lightweight, packable towel will come in handy at the beach as well as on excursions like snorkeling trips or adventures into Arikok National Park.
It is illegal to take out any conch shells, sea stars, turtle eggs and/or any form of coral. No liquids, gels, and/or aerosols are permitted except when packed in a clear transparent resealable 1 quart (1 liter) size plastic bag. Liquids, gels, and/or aerosols in containers of 3.4 oz.
While credit cards are easy to carry and more secure than cash, you should always have some local cash on you when traveling. It's just good sense. Besides the fact that some local shops and vendors won't accept credit cards, having some cash provides a safety net in case your bank shuts off your card for any reason.
Cash is the best — and sometimes only — way to pay for bus fare, taxis, and local guides. If you'll be shopping a lot or settling bills at pricey business-class hotels, you might use your credit card more than I do — but you'll still be better off using cash for smaller purchases.
Taxi drivers won't be offended, many are happy enough to recieve the fare plus a thank you. A conversation is worth more than a tip when the fare is fair. 15 to 20% is within norms. The 15-20% is usually just a dollar or 2 at most.
While using Uber in Aruba is not currently an option, there are plenty of other transportation options to travel around the island. Whether you choose to rent a car, take a taxi, use the bus, or book a tour, you are sure to have a good time.
While you're out exploring, forgetting to bring dollar bills when you're out can be a big inconvenience, especially when it comes to public restrooms. Unlike the United States, Aruba lacks free restroom facilities, instead, many shops and public restrooms charge $1 per visit.
While tipping may not be required at some all-inclusive resorts, many guests prefer to do so. In the event that you would like to tip staff during your all-inclusive vacation, it is important to find out in advance whether staff would even be allowed to accept those tips.
You don't need to tip French waitstaff because they get a living wage and benefits. Unless a restaurant is hiring workers illegally, its waitstaff is being paid a living wage and has benefits, as well. So tips aren't a crucial part of a server's income in France.