@Gandalf4568 the water in the netherlands its not nice at all as the one in Aruba so what has the dutch to do with it? Aruba is part of the netherlands but it’s not dutch. We still have our own official language and etc.
Hello I love ur island I hope I can find a job as a trucker there one day it's such a beautiful place I am from the Netherlands and u guys also speak Dutch so why not the Netherlands is cold Grey and boring can't wait
Also 1 question if I may ask are there alot of natural disasters over there or does it almost never happen like hurricanes and all that scary stuff lol
Wolter - I had an interesting experience a few years back. I booked a quick trip in the Savaneta district of the island. Didn't realize it was their Labor Day - just about everything was shut down. The nearby Dutch/Aruban joint patrol base threw their gates open, an annual event that I was luckily there for. What a cool experience - vendors selling food, and demonstrations of military equipment, including a "shooting range" where we were able to fire M-16s loaded with blanks.
I’ve been going ever since I was born, I’m now 22, it’s is without a doubt my happy place😌. I have the islands coordinates tattooed on my arm, The BEST Island in the Caribbean with such a diverse and rich history of Dutch, Spanish, and Native cultures, every islander knows 4 languages by age 12, including the native creole language, Papiamento which is a gorgeous language, also a pirate watch tower right in the middle of the capital which is cool🔥
@@evagezymalla Prepare for a hell-like experience with the government paperwork. It takes ages and lots of energy to get documents done with the government unless you have special contacts.
@@evagezymalla Second of all, learn papiamento straight away! It will help you so much! I’ve made the mistake of not learning it in my first year and it took me much longer to find my place that way.
As an Aruban that lives in the poor district (San Nicolas) we have some good places here to eat at as well. And way cheaper. Like O'Niel Caribbean Kitchen which is in the main street of San Nicolas. Amazing food for a good price. As well as Zeerover's in Savaneta. And just a bunch of food trucks in general are awesome. Two people can eat for 25 fl at certain food trucks.
I always make a stop at Saco Felipe one night. It's one of my favorite meals on the island. I also liked Kamini's Kitchen. I would stop on the way back from Baby/Rodger's Beach.
I love the natural bridge and the parrot with the ice cube! Aruba looks beautiful, thanks for posting this video to help us all dream about warm beaches! 🙌🏻
No natural bridge did collapse in 2000s(very bad hurricane). And locals like myself called it natural disaster. But the bridge you are talking about its called the baby bridge being smaller and what not.
Aruba was a great time. Loved going there in December. Staying in Santa Cruz vs oranjestad was a great choice. Had more fun with the locals. The beaches were empty. Best beach trip ever.
Aruba is my favourite vacation destination spot❣️😎can’t wait to go back. No worries about food quality - excellent. The beaches are beautiful, people are friendly and safe to walk around.
Its all in the eye of the beholder. Come from Europe and it might seem Americanized or Latinized. Come from the US and it might seem European. Everyone is correct. Aruba is a mix of West Indian, Latino, Dutch, and American cultures(among others). In Curacao you will find a lot more Dutch people in general than in Aruba. They lean much more heavily towards the Dutch tourism market. Whereas Aruba leans towards the more affluent US market. There are many differences between Aruba and Curacao, but both are worth visiting.
Why is that a shock? The ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao) are dutch. Saba, st. Eustatius and Saint Martin are Dutch also (known as the SSS islands). All those islands together are the Dutch Antilles.
Great video! I love that Aruba has invested in infrastructure with the WattyVos highway that takes airport visitors direct to the main resort areas and the addition of linear parks lining much of the coastal roads from the northern point to the airport - demonstrates an appreciation for the tourism and not taking it for granted. 14 trips since 2001 thanks to the friendly Aruban people that make me feel so welcome
The Dutch government also really cares about their islands! The Dutch recently invested millions for a better ferry connection. And they also invested in restoring the old buildings and helping poor people out!
Thank you for visiting, love the video! The reason restaurants are so expensive over here is because we need to import everything! But I think you definitely went to the expensive spots, there are plenty of decently priced restaurants that us locals enjoy.
Aruba is the most expensive of the ABC islands, but none are overly cheap. Curacao is roughly what you would pay in the states for meals but if you get off the Tourist trail the Mom and Pop restaurants are less expensive with usually better food.
Hahahaaa I had to laugh when you spoke of food prices. I’m a local and yes, unfortunately it’s very expensive. Believe it or not... even for locals going to the supermarkets to buy regular food. Aruba is paradise but it does come with a heavy price-tag.
One thing I have to correct the beaches are not really east and west. The main difference is south and north. The southern half of the island is the tranquil white sandy beaches and the northern coast of the island is the rough Atlantic ocean side. With the dark lava rocks which are shown in the video. Besides that the video is really accurate.
We go there every year for an extended vacation... our average plate for a good meal is 50 dollars a plate or less without drinks... I actually think it’s more expensive at home in Pa to get the same meal
I've been in Aruba like 10 times in last 4 years, and hung out for many days, each visit ( its going to be my retirement location) and don't recall those so called expensive restaurants. I never rent a car. I ride the buses. Go to Mathews on the high side. Indeed it's safe, and no hurricanes. Baby beach is nice, and check out the Flintstores figures and the bar. Go for new years eve. Talk about fireworks.
When was this vid taken? The natural bridge has been long gone (2005). And have you been around the port area in Oranjestad lately? Have you not seen the decay? Lot's of shops and bars are closed (long before COVID). But some things you're right, the beaches are beautiful. There are lot of great places where you can get great food at a good price. You should try Zeerovers (the freshest fish you'll ever eat) or O'Niel in San Nicolas or Reflexion's Beach Bar, cheaper than his neighbour Barefoot but with the same stuning sunset!
My husband and I have been going to Aruba for 30 years and I disagree with the cost of food. Yes there are plenty of good expensive restaurants in the price range mentioned; however, there are many good restaurants where a party of two can eat for less. In the high rise area, there are few fast food restaurants. The capitol may have more to accommodate cruise ship passengers who are seeking a quick bite to take to the beach.
Well priced delicious places: Kowloon, Casa Vieja, Grand Fish, Fish House, O'Neals. Also seek out thr Food trucks, like Well Done at Linear Park, Ruiz, and last but not least Urataca Center for the best home made pizza, a must have. Blossoms is pricier but worth every cent as is Local Store with their amazing American-Aruban comfort food and craft beers. Bazrrr and Green Foods are excellent vegeterian and vegan offers which are actually surprisingly inexpensive. For the Brunch, no one beats the Hyatt Regency, not even close. Enjoy, bon apetite!
Getting screened a second time before the flight back to NY by US TSA caught me off guard. I had never heard of "Preclearance" - I was annoyed at first (and glad I got there extra early), but it was actually really cool to just land in the US and not deal with Customs - just walk off the plane and out to my ride home.
@@daddydoodoo9089 Actually I've heard that both Aruba and Curacao have those concerns. But "preclearance" is something done at a select number of foreign airports to more ease landside congestion for US -bound travelers. The drug screen issue is secondary.
It is not TSA, it is U.S. Customs and Border Protection Federal Officers. An agency of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. You are being cleared for immigration and Customs before landing in the U.S.. They are located at major cities thru CANADA, BAHAMAS, BERMUDA, Shannon Ireland. There was a plan to expand them further, but that has been placed on hold.
@@RTDoh5 Ah, I do appreciate the correction. Nonetheless, for some reason I didn't know about it ahead of time, but despite the initial annoyance at being screened a second time, the upfront investment of time paid off groundside back in NY. Why was preclearance expansion put on hold? It just makes so damned much sense...
When people ask me where I'm from and I tell them Aruba they look at me like I grew a second head with three eyes and the next sentence is why are you in NY? 😂😂😂
There are plenty of expensive places to eat in Aruba, but if you do some research you will find the locally owned restaurants you'll get some great food for a very reasonable price. Ask the locals for their recommendations. Always stop at the little pastechi stands! So much good food that is not expensive.
I love Aruba been here for three months and im learning papeimento from my gymnastics and kitesurfing friends we found a house and are thinking abt moving does anyone have any advice/tips
Two shocks you didn’t mention: 1. It is a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands (so it’s Dutch), though it looks more American. If you want a Dutch Caribbean experience visit Curaçao. 2. It has a desert landscape (unlike most Caribbean islands) because it is in a rain shadow effect from the eastern islands (such as Saint Lucia, Martinique, Dominica, Saint Vincent, and Barbados) and the Venezuelan Andes.
The extremely dangerous waves are on the north and east sides. ALERT 🚨 ALLOW AT LEAST 4-4.5 hours to arrive at the airport when departing. This is no exaggeration. Such a beautiful island. Been there nine times. Number 10 coming soon! Edit: As mentioned, the tap water is DELICIOUS! So smooth and 100% safe.
Aruba also happens to have the best German restaurant (Bavaria German Restaurant ) in all the Caribbean (well not a lot of competition but it's still great food). Get a brezel. Yum.
It's apropos that I watched this video just now, because now is the 6th anniversary of my trip to Curacao (my one and only time, so far, that I've been to any of the ABC islands). When watching this video, it brings back memories of that trip of mine. I see many broad similarities between Aruba and Curacao - gentle, sandy west side beaches vs. the rough and rugged east shore (including the waves), plus oil refineries next to sites of interest (in Curacao's case, next to the old Jewish cemetery). But yeah, Curacao packs much culture and history where Aruba is more purely (but by no means 100%) a beach resort.
I respectfully disagree. Aruba has a rich history and a very interesting culture. Colonized by the Spanish, the British and the Dutch, these infliences can be seen back in everything -the language, the culture, the way of living. Of course if you stay in the resort area you are not going to get the real Aruban experience. Aruba and Curaçao (and Bonaire) are A LOT more different than people would think at first glance.
Ohhh what a nice video my friend !!! You talked in a very simple and friendly way !!! Good sound ... good views ... Congratulations !!! Greetings from Cusco in Perú ... hope someday you n your family wi ll come here !!!
If you want some great Italian food & gorgeous views go to Terrazza. We enjoyed the food and drinks so much we went back four nights. The owner who also cooks everything, is the sweetest woman our last night there she actually came out and gave us all a hug. I can't recommend this place enough! It's across from Eagle beach
I went to Ocho Rios, an all inclusive (I was traveleing alone) and there were large Iguanas walking all around the property, in addition to all the cactus. It was very cool.
These videos all make me want to open up a restaurant on the island. It amazes me that I literally never spend more than like 7-30 bucks depending on the place for great meals and tourists are spending 200$ for meals? Are these people just getting sent to the most expensive restaurants on the island by hotel employees instead of just going to your average local restaurant>
great video really enjoyed your insight and knowledge of the island as well as your cheery and smiley personality also you sound just like the great american actor 'Jack Black' keep up the good work
We aren't highly trained in the food industry. We are just really helpful and carrying people. That why our service is top. Our culture does that to us.
Your videos are great! I've been to Aruba about 25 times, made a Covid jailbreak for two weeks in December for two weeks. Good restaurants are expensive, we do splurge on a couple favorites when we are their and they are worth it. We stayin a low rise on Eagle beach. Easily the best beach on the island. Rent a car to get where we want to go and there is a big grocery store accros the street. They have grills so we cook out alot for dinner and make lunch in the room most days to save a bit. We know certain things that are pricy in the stores and bring them with us. The rest isn't really that much more expensive once you get over the exchange rate shock! They have also started putting the US prices on the shelve prices to help.
Try to look for inside town restaurants they are 3 times more cheaper In the hotel area is more like a luxury wich is good to go 1 time but if your on a budget there are alot of good restaurants inside the town
I live here. Restuarants in the tourism section is crazy expensive. Meanwhile we have delcious as heck truck foods and restaurants in the San Nicolas region.
Question, can we drive the ATV’s anywhere on the island, are there 2 seaters, and can we rent it for multiple days? Or would anyone suggest just renting a car instead?
Thanks for your video. My husband and I are considering Aruba but we are wondering if we need to do and All Inclusive resort or and Airbnb. I’m thinking about the cost of food and drinks and wondering if you guys have an opinion. I’m sure we won’t get the local feel on an AI resort.
I am going to live there some day it's a life goal I live in the Netherlands now and people speak Dutch there so why stay in the Netherlands it's a beautiful place I can't wait to start a career there
I'm a 55-year-old ( physically & mentally 40) single Midwest guy ( letter carrier) retiring from the United States Postal Service. I'm looking to retire in an affordable, safe & friendly Island atmosphere. I've recent recently been looking into Ambergris Caye, Belize please help me with your suggestions. Love the videos!!!
Yes, they have been very strict about these things as tourism is the largest part of their economy. They require a negative COVID test before arrival as well.
I have been here 3 months now. Been coming here for many years. Things have changed. Sorry to say buy due to covid over 650 businesses have closed. I used to eat at sbarro or other reasonable places. All gone. Taxi drivers are hurting for fares. They wait hours for 1 fare. Many are really stressed and rude. Its not the aruba I knew. Will be leaving next week. Not coming back Good luck
As a local I would say it all depends on your budget, you could stay at a fancy hotel or some nice villa. Or you can get some cheaper hotels and cheaper rooms via airbnb. Now is a great time to come the island, tickets are cheap due to covid, and if you compare us to the world, we have very few cases, so all in all it will be safe if you take the right precautions.
I always wonder what natives of these places think of us tourists and if they hate us or like us lmfao. Went to Aruba once in 2018 for my mom's wedding, it was a good time just wish I had more money to spend while I was there and it was the first international vacation with my bf. I just wanted to note people HAVE to try the different aloe products from this island, they are phenomenal whether it's shampoo or lotion,etc, the brand I got from was Island Remedy. Prices are comparable to where I'm from in the US, the state of PA. Of course we stayed in one of the resorts but I highly recommend taking a trip around the less traveled parts of Aruba, it's a fairly safe place.
Generally speaking, I'd say Arubans are naturally hospitable, friendly and curious, and we love welcoming people on our island. However, if we sense disrespect we will say something about it. We are nice people but we don't let others walk all over us.
@@heavenbound9157 I'm just curious if you hate how touristy it is and what you think of the majority of tourists. I'd say the only downside I experienced there was it's common to get drugged in the hotels, pretty sure it happened to me but that can happen anywhere. The natives seemed great to me.
Ok anything you suggest I do I’ve been here for three months don't know when we'll leave and we wanna buy a house to live in (family of 4) anything specific we should know
@@king_smitty860 you never lived there . Its very different for tourists who spend money. Its all about your money. I thought like you the first few times. Then I started to make some local friends......I thought very different experience
