Aruba
Aruba is a small island (within the Kingdom of the Netherlands) in the Caribbean sea, known for its white sandy beaches. A mixed population of about 120,000 inhabitants and a pleasant nature makes Aruba one happy island. The islands main attraction is the hospitality of the inhabitants, the various hotels and the beautiful weather, a guarantee for a pleasant stay.

Weather
Aruba has a sunny climate; this makes it a paradise for the inhabitants and visitors throughout the year. The average temperature is 82ºF (28ºC), with constant cooling trade winds from the Atlantic Ocean.

Economy
Aruba has one of the highest standards of living in the Caribbean region and a low unemployment rate.  Its main economic activity is tourism or related activities.  The island also has a refinery.

Culture
The origins of the population and location of the island gives Aruba a mixed culture with a strong Dutch influence.
Christmas and New Year are celebrated with the typical music, food and drinks. One very important holiday is the annual Carnival, as it is in most Caribbean and Latin American countries.
There is an increased visibility of the American culture with the celebrations of Halloween and Thanksgiving Day in November. An obvious influence of the many American tourists that visit the island all year through.

Language
The two official languages are Dutch and Papiamento. Papiamento is a Latin language with recognizable Dutch, African dialects, English, French and most important Portuguese and Spanish influence.  Papiamento has evolved through the centuries but has not been officially synchronized with Papiamentu spoken in Bonaire and Aruba. English and Spanish are known by most Arubans.

Doing business in/with Aruba
Aruba has an open economy, which because of its small scale is dependant on imports from and exports to other countries.  The main economic activities are tourism, banking and transportation. The locally manufactured goods presently exported are semi-finished petroleum products, plastic bags, soaps/disinfectants, printed textiles, and refined sugar and rice products. At the moment the government is actively stimulating the establishment of “export-oriented” or “import-replacement” companies in Aruba.  Examples are companies in the area of telecommunications, international financial services, international trade, free trade zone activities/services and small scale high tech operations in agriculture, husbandry and fisheries.
More information is provided on www.aruba.com