Your Travel Guide
Travel Note
Brad & Thi’s Insider Travel Tips
We want your trip to Aruba to be as smooth and stress‑free as possible, so we pulled together a few of our favorite travel hacks for the island. These are the big ones to know before you fly: 1. Complete Your ED Card Aruba requires an online ED Card before arrival. It’s quick, but don’t forget it — it speeds everything up. 2. Stop at the Duty‑Free Store When You Land Right after baggage claim, there’s a duty‑free shop with some of the best alcohol prices on the island. It’s a convenient spot to browse if you want to pick something up before heading to the hotel — and it can save you an extra trip later. 3. Taxis Are Right Outside Baggage Claim No need to pre‑book. Walk outside, and taxis are lined up and ready. 4. Pack Extra Sunscreen We’re close to the equator — the sun is no joke! Bring more than you think you’ll need. 5. Text Us When You Arrive We want to know you made it safely — and we’d love to see you as soon as you’re settled.
Travel Note
Pre-Flight Requirements for Travel
Passport: A valid passport (that does not expire within 6 months of travel date) is required to fly internationally. Please be aware that passports may take a few months to be processed if applying for the first time or renewing. Visa: U.S. Citizens do not need a visa for short visits on the island. Embarkation/Disembarkation (ED) Card is required for entry into Aruba. This can only be done SEVEN (7) days before entering Aruba. The ED card must be presented at check-in before your flight, your boarding pass will receive a check mark which will be required to board your flight to Aruba. This fee supports Aruban sustainability efforts. Please apply at this link.
Flight
Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA)
Please note that guests will be responsible for coordinating their own air fare. Travelers will need to go through customs and immigration once arrived in Aruba, where questions will be asked regarding travel plans, accommodation, and duration of stay. Taxis will be readily available outside the airport to take you to your accommodation.
Travel Note
Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app
When departing back home, please plan to arrive at the airport 3 hours before your flight. You’ll need to pass through airport security and U.S. Customs before reaching your gate. To save time and avoid long lines, we highly recommend using the free Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app. By filing your customs declaration through the app as soon as you arrive at the airport, you can access dedicated fast-track lanes, making your journey home smoother and quicker without additional costs. Download the MPC app in advance and enjoy a faster, stress-free airport experience when leaving Aruba!
Travel Note
Taxi Fare
Taxis are the most accessible and reliable form of transportation for tourists on the island. You can go to any restaurant or hotel, and staff will gladly call a taxi for you. Additionally, you can text +297-280-8850 on WhatsApp to schedule a ride. Drivers accept U.S. dollars in cash, but very few accept credit cards.
Travel Note
Restaurants
We’ve got you covered — one of our favorite things to do in Aruba is EAT. Food prices vary across the island, but there are great options for every vibe and budget. Below are some of Brad & Thi’s favorite places, all within a 15‑minute walk or a quick 2‑minute taxi ride: 🐟 🎣Wacky Wahoo + Fishes & More + Fisherman’s Hut 🪵🔥 Azar 🇧🇷🥩 Tango 🍺🍗🍔 Local Store & Smokey Joe’s 🇮🇹 Azzurro & Gianni’s 🍕 Pizza Italia & Calabria Trattoria 🍨 Gelatissimo 🍓🍊 Eduardo’s 🇬🇷🍦 Kouzina 🇳🇱🥞 Linda’s ☕️ Santos 🍺🌴 Moomba Beach, Bugaloe, Pelican Pier Beach Bar, Amare Beach Bar If you’re feeling adventurous and want to explore beyond Palm Beach — whether by taxi or rental car — these local spots are absolutely worth the trip: Zeerovers, Wilhelmina, Driftwood, Lima Bistro, O’Niel’s Caribbean, and The Dutch Pancake House.
Travel Note
Excursions
Discover a whole new side of Aruba! If you’re excited to venture beyond the hotel area — or want a little adventure between your beach time — these excursions are an incredible way to experience the island. Whether you’re craving a sunset cruise with cocktails, a snorkeling trip in crystal‑clear water, or an off‑roading ATV tour through Aruba’s stunning landscapes, there’s something here for every vibe. We’ve included a few Viator links below. Some excursions offer direct hotel pickup, while others are just a quick 5–10 minute taxi ride from the resort — all super easy to get to. If you have any questions, please contact us! Sunset Cruise Options https://www.viator.com/search/37387P2?mcid=70066 (5 min walk from Raddison Blu) https://www.viator.com/search/119085P2?mcid=70066 (10-12 minute walk from Raddison Blu) Snorkeling Options https://www.viator.com/search/37387P3?mcid=70066 (5 min walk from Raddison Blu) https://www.viator.com/search/8936P1?mcid=70066 (15 minute walk from Raddison Blu) ATV Tour Options https://www.viator.com/search/47774P3?mcid=70066 (hotel pick up and drop off available)
Travel Note
Currency
The official currency in Aruba is the Aruban Florin. However, currency exchange is not necessary. USD is widely accepted on the island. Many businesses accept credit cards and debit cards. However, it is always a good idea to carry cash, especially for taxi rides.
Rental Car
Sunset Car Rental Aruba
Drive like a Local! We have used Sunset Car Rental Aruba multiple times in the past and they have consistently been helpful and understanding. It's a great way to explore the island on your own time!
Travel Note
Water Advisory
In Aruba, the tap water is perfectly safe to drink and is of high quality, so there's no need to buy bottled water unless you prefer it.
Travel Note
Groceries
Super Food Plaza delivers groceries (including beer and alcohol). Just download the app! Click on the link for more information.
Travel Note
No need to worry about roaming fees! WhatsApp works on Wi-Fi, so as long as you have internet access, you can text or make international calls without additional costs! ** You can message Brad and Thi directly on WhatsApp using our regular cell numbers once you download the app. If you have any questions at all, just reach out — we’re here to help. **
Travel Note
Languages Spoken
The official languages of Aruba are Dutch and Papiamento, a mix of Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, English, and African languages. Most Arubans speak English and Spanish, especially in tourist areas.
Travel Note
Weather
Aruba in May is warm and sunny, with average daytime temperatures around 86–90°F (30–32°C) and nighttime temperatures around 78°F (26°C). It’s one of the driest months, with little rainfall and low humidity thanks to the constant trade winds. The ocean is warm, around 81°F (27°C), making it great for swimming and water activities. May is outside the hurricane season, so the weather is generally stable. Aruba is also outside the hurricane belt, so there’s little risk of major storms. The island’s trade winds provide a steady breeze, keeping things comfortable.