The climate is tropical marine, with little seasonal temperature variation. Because of its location south in the Caribbean there is very strong sun, but a constant light breeze keeps the temperature pleasant. The island is flat with a few hills, arid with mostly desert vegetation and negligible natural resources other than white sandy beaches. Highest point: Mount Jamanota...full of cactus too! Above all, it appears that Arubans are very aware that their economy is completely dependent on tourism - so Arubans are polite to tourists, and even street vendors don't generally seek to rip off their customers (though as in all traveling, don't let advice like this lull you into a sense of complacency). This may be helped by the fact that Aruba is a relatively expensive place to visit, so it tends to attract the reasonably well-off.
Oranjestad's waterfront has many vendors/stalls selling souvenirs. Ironically, many of these souvenirs are imported from the United States with island scenes/slogans, only to be purchased by Americans and brought back to America.
In Oranjestad, the Renaissance Mall contains various American and European major apparel brands (i.e. Tommy Hilfiger, Polo Ralph Lauren, Gucci) at essentially the same prices as in the United States. The mall and the rest of the downtown area also holds numerous other types of stores catering to visitors. With numerous cruise ships visiting, stores offer buys in jewelry, etc., typical of that in other Caribbean cruise ports.
American dollars are accepted virtually everywhere at a decent exchange rate. If you have U.S. dollars, there is no need to change money into the local currency, the Aruban florin. Because the island is a Dutch dependency, Dutch currency is easy to spend, and small change for purchases in dollars may be in florins.
Groceries and other supplies are all imported from elsewhere, so prices tend to be high. Aside from the Renaissance where I stayed, the Aruba Marriott is located right on Palm Beach, this resort is definitely one of the most luxuriant on the island. Spacious rooms with large private balconies to admire the Caribbean and tropical gardens. The stretch of Palm Beach outside the hotel is great for scuba diving, snorkeling or just laying in the sun. Also great for relaxing is the lagoon-style pool that has a peaceful waterfall and swim-up bar. Guests of the resort also have access to the spa facility at the Marriott Ocean Club. Connected to the hotel, the Stellaris Casino, the largest on the island, has good gaming and live entertainment. For such an expansive property the whole resort has a very relaxing exotic atmosphere.
No photos of sandy beaches (no time) and the more populated "touristy" areas of Aruba included in this entry. Just imagine Orlando or Daytona Beach and you get the picture...not much "exotic" in Aruba...
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