Why is everything so expensive in Aruba?

Shipping costs, along with import duties and residual costs such as labor, result in prices somewhat higher than what you might find back home. So next time you're in Aruba and the cost of food strikes you, remember that the higher prices are a fundamental part of helping you have a worry-free and enjoyable holiday.



People Also Ask

The iconic Divi Divi trees and scenic views of Aruba contribute to its unique and breathtaking landscape. Aruba offers a safe and welcoming environment, with friendly people, beautiful beaches, and a wide range of activities for travelers of all ages.

MORE DETAILS

Aruba is definitely worth considering for your next vacation destination! You'll fall in love with its gorgeous white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and warm, sunny weather.

MORE DETAILS

Although Aruba and Hawaii are both great beach destinations, they have substantial differences making both places a unique holiday experience. I'd argue that Hawaii has a more epic landscape, but Aruba is easier to get to (as long as you have a passport).

MORE DETAILS

The currency on the island is the Aruba Florin. You can exchange U.S. dollars, but it isn't necessary. Using American money in Aruba is common and widely accepted. You may receive Aruba currency as change.

MORE DETAILS

Almost all of the food must be shipped in to Aruba so you're paying for transportation costs for the food to get to the island. Aruba is a desert island (looks similar to Arizona) so very little can be grown on the island (same with livestock.)

MORE DETAILS

Aruba is known for being the “happy island” for seafood lovers since fresh-caught fish is abundant. Fishermen haul in wahoo, snapper, shrimp, lobster, oysters, mahi-mahi, grouper, conch, and more. The delicious seafood comes grilled, fried, and served in soups and stews.

MORE DETAILS

The best time to visit Aruba is from mid-January through May. Those months mark the heart of Aruba's dry season and the island's long stretch of comfortably warm, sunny days. The island lies in the far south of the Caribbean, below the hurricane belt, the region most affected by seasonal storms.

MORE DETAILS

There are also great conversations to be had with the local artisans. While not everyone is willing to haggle, many booths are more than happy to go back and forth on an item's price.

MORE DETAILS

If You Are A US/Canadian Citizen If you are the US or Canadian citizen, you enjoy the benefit of visa-free travel as long as you complete the ED Card registration process. You may stay in Aruba for a maximum of 90 days for a 180-day period. However, it is possible to extend your stay for up to 180 consecutive days.

MORE DETAILS

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!

MORE DETAILS

Arm Yourself with Small Bills -- Bring a bundle of small bills (if your currency is American dollars) to make for easy tipping and small purchases. There's no need to bring large sums of cash, unless you're planning to make big purchases and prefer not to use a credit card.

MORE DETAILS