Located 15 miles north of Venezuela in the warm waters of the southern Caribbean, Aruba is home to beautiful white-sand beaches, 82-degree days, and some of the kindest people in the world. Our island is 19.6 miles long and 6 miles across, with a total area of 70 square miles. We’re located just below the hurricane belt. Xavier is located in the capital city of Aruba, Oranjestad, and the Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA) is only a 15 minute drive away.
Climate
Aruba has some of the best weather conditions in the world. The average temperature is 82° F / 28° C, and the cool breeze provides a nice relief. The climate is dry, so it rarely rains there. Weather is not something those in Aruba need to worry about.
What makes Aruba different?
With its Dutch heritage and Latin flair, Aruba is a sight to be seen. Just off the coast of Venezuela, Aruba is famous for its poster-perfect sugary-white beaches, some of the Caribbean’s top wreck diving and, thanks to nearly constant trade winds, world-class windsurfing and kite-boarding.
History of Aruba
Aruba came under Dutch rule in 1636 as part of the Netherlands Antilles. It then claimed autonomy in 1986 and is now a separate entity within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. This means that it follows Dutch law and has a governor appointed by the monarch of the Netherlands. Aruba’s government is a parliamentary representative democracy.
Travel to Aruba
Getting to Aruba is easy. You can take direct flights from major North American cities. U.S. Preclearance is used in Aruba, which means flight passengers are checked before they get on the plane, and can immediately leave the airport upon landing.
Getting around in Aruba
Aruba has a good network of paved roads allowing access to most places of interest. Arubans drive on the same side of the road as people in the U.S. and Canada. Several Aruba car rental companies are available at the airport to pick up your vehicle. You can also request pick up at your hotel. U.S. and Canadian driver’s licenses can be used in Aruba.
Phone, Internet, & Cable
Aruba has a well-developed infrastructure for phone, internet, and cable TV. We have two leading companies: Digicel, and Setar, and both offer excellent services. You can find all the information you need at www.digicelaruba.com, and www.setar.aw.
Shipping to Aruba
The four companies that you could use for shipping are FedEx, UPS, DHL, and Fast Delivery.
Currency & Banking
The U.S. dollar is accepted everywhere on the island, as well as all major credit and debit cards. ATM machines are readily available throughout the island. It is easy for students to open bank accounts in Aruba. All they need is identification and a letter from the school, which they can get from the Administrative Office on campus. The currency in Aruba is stable and has an exchange rate that is always equal to that of the U.S.
Electricity
All electrical outlets in Aruba are the same as in the U.S. and Canada. It is a good idea to bring along a surge protector as added protection for any electronic equipment.
