Aruba

Country Profile: Aruba

Official Name: Aruba

Capital: Oranjestad

Geography:

Aruba is an island and a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the southern Caribbean Sea. It is located about 1,600 kilometers (990 miles) west of the main part of the Lesser Antilles and 29 kilometers (18 miles) north of the coast of Venezuela.

Area: Approximately 180 square kilometers (approximately 70 square miles).

Population: Approximately 106,000 people (as of 2023 estimate).

Language: The official languages are Dutch and Papiamento, but English and Spanish are also widely spoken.

Climate:

Aruba has a tropical savanna climate, with an average temperature of 28°C (82°F) and a consistent breeze coming from the Atlantic Ocean, keeping the humidity relatively low.

Economy:

Aruba has a mixed economy, with tourism, petroleum bunkering, hospitality, and financial services being the main sectors. The island has one of the highest standards of living in the Caribbean region.

Government:

As a part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the monarch of the Netherlands is the head of state, represented locally by a governor. Aruba has a parliamentary system and its own constitution.

Education:

Education in Aruba is compulsory between the ages of 4 and 16. The system follows the Dutch educational model and is conducted in Dutch.

Culture:

Aruban culture is a blend of indigenous, African, and European elements, and is reflected in the island’s cuisine, language, music, and festivals.

Noteworthy Facts:

Aruba is known for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, making it a popular destination for tourists worldwide. The island is also home to Arikok National Park, which covers nearly 20% of the island and includes native flora and fauna.

This is a general overview of Aruba. There’s much more to learn about this island, from its unique landscape to its diverse culture.