Essential Travel Information for Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao Islands

Here is the Essential Travel Information you will need to make any trip to Aruba, Bonaire or Curacao a success!

Best Time to Visit

The ABC Islands—Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao—are located in the southern Caribbean and are generally outside the hurricane belt, making them year-round destinations. However, there are some factors to consider when planning your trip:

Peak Season (December to April)

• Weather: This period offers the most reliable weather, with less rainfall and lots of sun.

• Tourism: It's the busiest season, especially around Christmas, New Year's, and Easter. Hotels and flights often book up quickly and are more expensive during this time.

• Activities: Most outdoor activities and water sports are in full swing.

Off-Peak Season (May to November)

• Weather: While there's a higher chance of rain, showers are often brief. The islands are generally less windy during these months.

• Tourism: Fewer tourists mean less crowded beaches and attractions. You're also likely to find lower prices for accommodations and possibly flights.

• Activities: Water visibility for scuba diving and snorkeling is often better during the off-peak months, especially in Bonaire, which is a renowned diving destination.

Festivals

The ABC Islands—Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao—host a range of festivals and events throughout the year that reflect their rich cultural heritage and vibrant local communities. Here are some notable ones:

Aruba

• Aruba Carnival: Usually taking place between January and March, this is a grand celebration filled with parades, music, and colorful costumes.

• Aruba International Film Festival: Held in June, this event attracts filmmakers and cinephiles from around the world.

• Aruba Summer Music Festival: This takes place in late June and features popular Latin, American, and local musicians.

Bonaire

• Bonaire Carnival: Similar to other Caribbean carnivals, it happens in the weeks leading up to Lent and features vibrant parades and calypso music.

• Bonaire Heineken Jazz Festival: Usually in May, this event brings together international and local jazz artists.

• Bonaire Regatta: Held in October, this is a week-long sailing and windsurfing competition that also features plenty of on-land festivities.

Curaçao

• Curaçao Carnival: One of the largest and most famous in the Caribbean, usually occurring between January and March. It culminates in the "Gran Marcha," a grand parade through Willemstad.

• Curaçao North Sea Jazz Festival: Usually held in late August or early September, this festival attracts big names in jazz, Latin, and R&B music.

• Curaçao International BlueSeas Festival: Taking place in April, this event is centered around blues music and features performances in the historic Pietermaai District.

Climate

The ABC Islands—Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao—are located in the southern Caribbean and are generally known for their warm, dry climate. They're situated outside the main hurricane belt, making them appealing destinations year-round. However, there are some seasonal variations to consider:

Temperature

• Average Highs: The temperature remains relatively constant throughout the year, with average highs ranging from around 86°F to 90°F (30°C to 32°C).

• Average Lows: Nighttime temperatures are also quite consistent, usually ranging from 75°F to 80°F (24°C to 27°C).

Rainfall

• Dry Season (December to April): This period is the driest, making it popular for tourists seeking to escape colder climates. Rainfall is rare and usually consists of short, light showers.

• Wet Season (May to November): This period experiences a bit more rainfall, although it's still relatively low compared to other Caribbean destinations. Showers are often brief and occur in the early morning or late afternoon.

Wind

• The trade winds are a constant feature, making the climate feel less humid and providing excellent conditions for windsurfing and sailing. These winds are typically stronger from December to August.

Sea Conditions

• Temperature: Sea temperatures are quite warm year-round, ranging from 79°F to 84°F (26°C to 29°C), making it ideal for water activities.

• Visibility: Underwater visibility for diving and snorkeling is generally excellent, though it can be even better during the off-peak season (May to November).

Special Considerations

• Sun intensity can be very high, so sunscreen, hats, and adequate hydration are crucial.

• While hurricanes are rare, it's always a good idea to check the weather forecast and any travel advisories during the hurricane season, which generally runs from June to November for the broader Caribbean region.

Packing Tips

Packing for a trip to the ABC Islands—Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao—requires some thoughtful planning to ensure you're prepared for both the adventures and relaxation that await you. Here are some packing tips:

Clothing

• Lightweight Clothes: Pack light, breathable clothing like shorts, t-shirts, and tank tops due to the warm climate.

• Swimwear: Don't forget at least two swimsuits so you always have a dry one.

• Cover-Ups: Bring a cover-up or sarong for when you transition from the beach to a restaurant or shop.

• Evening Wear: While the islands are generally casual, you might want to bring one or two nicer outfits for evening dining or special events.

• Footwear: Comfortable sandals or flip-flops are essential for the beach, while water shoes might be useful for rocky shorelines. A pair of walking shoes for sightseeing is also a good idea.

Outdoor Gear

• Sun Protection: High-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-protective sunglasses are musts.

• Beach Bag: A tote bag or small backpack to carry your essentials to the beach.

• Snorkel Gear: While you can rent gear, if you're an enthusiast, you might prefer to bring your own.

• Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated without contributing to plastic waste.

Electronics

• Camera/Smartphone: For capturing memories. If you have a waterproof camera or housing for your smartphone, even better!

• Power Adapter: The ABC Islands generally use Type F plugs, with a standard voltage of 127V and a frequency of 50Hz, so check if you'll need an adapter or converter.

• Portable Charger: A portable battery can be a lifesaver for long days out exploring.

Health and Safety

• First Aid Kit: Basic essentials like adhesive bandages, antiseptics, and pain relievers.

• Prescription Medications: Bring any prescription medications you'll need, along with a copy of the prescription just in case.

• Mosquito Repellent: Particularly important if you're planning to be outdoors in the early morning or evening.

Miscellaneous

• Local Currency: While credit cards are widely accepted, it's good to have some local currency on hand for smaller establishments or tipping.

• Travel Insurance Information: Carry a copy of your travel insurance policy and emergency contact numbers.

Currency

The currency used in the ABC Islands—Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao—differs, reflecting their unique statuses within the Kingdom of the Netherlands and their local economies.

Aruba

• Currency: Aruban Florin (AWG)

• Symbol: ƒ

• Subunit: 100 cents

• The Aruban Florin is pegged to the U.S. Dollar at a fixed exchange rate. The rate is 1.79 AWG per 1 USD.

• U.S. Dollar Usage: The U.S. Dollar is widely accepted in Aruba, so you don't necessarily need to exchange money. However, you may get a better deal by using the local currency in some instances.

Bonaire

• Currency: United States Dollar (USD)

• Symbol: $

• As of 2011, Bonaire switched to using the U.S. Dollar as its official currency.

  
  

Curaçao

• Currency: Caribbean Guilder (ANG)

• Symbol: ƒ or NAƒ

• Subunit: 100 cents

• The Caribbean Guilder is pegged to the U.S. Dollar, with an exchange rate of about 1.79 ANG per 1 USD.

• U.S. Dollar Usage: U.S. Dollars are also widely accepted in Curaçao, particularly in tourist areas.

Important Points:

• ATMs: You'll find ATMs in major towns and tourist areas that dispense local currency and often U.S. Dollars.

• Credit Cards: Major credit cards are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas, although small establishments may only take cash.

Time Zone

The ABC Islands—Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao—are all located in the Atlantic Standard Time (AST) zone. This time zone is 4 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-4).

It's worth noting that the ABC Islands do not observe Daylight Saving Time, so the time remains the same year-round.

Bargaining

Bargaining is generally not a widespread practice in the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao) for most types of purchases. Prices in established businesses like restaurants, grocery stores, and most retail shops are usually fixed and not subject to negotiation.

Communication

Communication in the ABC Islands—Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao—is generally straightforward, especially for travelers. Here's a rundown of some key aspects:

Language

• Papiamento/Papiamentu: The local Creole language, Papiamento in Aruba and Curaçao and Papiamentu in Bonaire, is widely spoken and is the native tongue for many residents.

• Dutch: Given the islands' status as special municipalities or constituent countries within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Dutch is also an official language and is understood by nearly everyone.

• English: Widely spoken, particularly in tourist areas and by those in the hospitality industry.

• Spanish: Also commonly understood and spoken, given the islands' proximity to Latin America.

WiFi

• Hotels/Resorts: Nearly all hotels, resorts, and many rental properties offer WiFi, though the quality can vary.

• Public WiFi: Some public areas, like airports and certain plazas, offer free WiFi. Always use a VPN when connecting to public WiFi for security reasons.

• Cafes/Restaurants: Many cafes and restaurants offer free WiFi to customers. You may need to ask for the password.

Phone

• Local SIM Cards: These are available for travelers who want to make local calls or use mobile data. Ensure your phone is unlocked to use a local SIM.

• Roaming: Check with your home service provider about international roaming packages or charges.

• Emergency Numbers: The emergency number for police, fire, and ambulance services is 911 in Aruba and Curaçao, and 717-8000 or 911 in Bonaire.

• Public Phones: While increasingly rare, some areas still have public phones that use either coins or prepaid cards.

• Calling Code: The international dialing code for Aruba is +297, for Bonaire, it's part of the Caribbean Netherlands' code +599, and for Curaçao, it's also +599 but followed by a different set of numbers than Bonaire. Make sure to check the specific local numbers you will need.

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is generally customary and appreciated in the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao), particularly in the service and hospitality industries.

Electric Plugs

The type of electrical plugs and outlets used in the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao) can vary, so it's a good idea to be prepared for different configurations.

Aruba

• Voltage: 127 V

• Frequency: 60 Hz

• Plug Types: Types A, B, and F are commonly used.

  • Type A: Two flat parallel pins

  • Type B: Two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin

  • Type F: Two round pins and two grounding clips on the side

Bonaire

• Voltage: 127 V or 220 V depending on the location

• Frequency: 50 Hz

• Plug Types: Types A, B, and C are most common.

  • Type A: Two flat parallel pins

  • Type B: Two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin

  • Type C: Two round pins

Curaçao

• Voltage: 127 V or 220 V depending on the location

• Frequency: 50 Hz

• Plug Types: Types A, B, and F are commonly used.

  • Type A: Two flat parallel pins

  • Type B: Two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin

  • Type F: Two round pins and two grounding clips on the side

Sustainable Travel Tips

Sustainable travel is increasingly important for preserving the beauty and health of tourist destinations, including the ABC Islands—Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao. Here are some sustainable travel tips for a responsible visit:

Transportation:

• Minimize Air Travel: Although flying might be unavoidable to get to the islands, consider limiting the number of flights you take once there.

• Use Public Transport or Carpool: Instead of renting a car, consider using public transport or carpooling to minimize your carbon footprint.

• Bike or Walk: These islands offer beautiful scenery that can be best enjoyed by walking or biking.

Accommodation:

• Eco-Friendly Hotels: Choose accommodations that have a demonstrated commitment to sustainability, such as eco-certifications or green initiatives.

• Conserve Energy: Make sure to turn off lights, air conditioning, and electronic devices when you leave your room.

Consumables:

• Reusable Bottles and Bags: Always carry a reusable water bottle and shopping bags to minimize plastic waste.

• Eat Local: Opt for locally sourced food and beverages to support the local economy and minimize your carbon footprint.

• Skip Straws and Single-Use Items: Politely decline straws and other single-use plastics whenever possible.

Activities:

• Responsible Snorkeling and Diving: Avoid touching coral reefs and marine life. Look for tour operators who prioritize eco-friendly practices.

• Eco-Friendly Tours: Choose tour operators who operate under sustainable principles and are accredited by recognized eco-certification bodies.

Cultural Sustainability:

• Support Local Artisans: Instead of buying mass-produced souvenirs, consider supporting local artisans and craftspeople by purchasing handmade products.

• Learn Local Customs and Language: Take the time to learn a few phrases in Papiamento/Papiamentu or Dutch, and familiarize yourself with local customs and traditions.

• Attend Community-Run Events: Participate in events or activities organized by local communities rather than big corporations.