Noord City Guide

Must-try local dishes include fresh seafood, Keshi Yena (stuffed cheese), and Pastechi (fried pastries). International variety is extensive, with many restaurants offering American, European, and Asian cuisines.

Noord, particularly along the Palm Beach strip, has a vibrant nightlife with numerous bars, casinos, and clubs.

The coffee scene is growing with a mix of international chains and local cafes offering good quality coffee.

Tipping is customary; 15% is typical unless included. Added for taxis and services.

Local SIM cards can be purchased on arrival at the airport or at authorized dealer stores for providers like Digicel and Setar. Both offer prepaid plans. eSIM availability may vary by provider; it's best to check directly with Digicel or Setar.

Street cleanliness is generally good, especially in tourist areas. Waste management programs are in place.

Some pharmacies offer extended hours. Minimarts are often open late.

International products are widely available. Main supermarkets include Super Food Plaza, Ling & Sons IGA Supercenter, and Certified Mega Mall. Typical opening hours are from 8 AM to 9 PM, with some variations. Most supermarkets are open on Sundays and holidays, often with reduced hours.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at most establishments, including restaurants, shops, and hotels. Cash is also accepted, but card payments are prevalent.

ATMs are readily available at banks, supermarkets, and major tourist areas. Common banks include Aruba Bank, CMB, and RBC Royal Bank. Fees may apply depending on your bank.

Notable international schools include the International School of Aruba (ISA), offering an American curriculum. Languages of instruction are primarily English. Admissions timing and waitlist notes vary, so direct contact with the schools is recommended.

Aruba is seeing a growing interest from remote workers. While not as established as major nomad hubs, meetups and nomad-friendly cafes are available.

While main attractions focus on beaches, areas like Bubali Bird Sanctuary offer natural green spaces. Arikok National Park enhances outdoor experiences.

Popular running routes include the scenic boardwalks along Palm Beach and Eagle Beach. Safety for runners is generally good.

Several gyms and fitness studios are available, catering to various workout preferences.

Tennis courts are available at many resorts. Padel courts are less common.

Padel facilities are less common but available at select locations.

Several yoga studios and wellness centers are present, offering a variety of classes with English-speaking instructors.

Dojo and training facilities for various disciplines like Taekwondo and Karate exist. Drop-in policies and English-speaking instructors vary.

No skiing is available in Aruba.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing are widely available, especially along Palm Beach.

Surfing spots are limited, but Dos Playa and Andicuri offer waves mostly for experienced surfers.

Excellent dive sites include shipwrecks and coral reefs, with abundant marine life. Year-round diving for all levels is available.

Horacio Oduber Hospital in Oranjestad is the main hospital, offering a range of services with English-speaking staff. Private clinics are also available. Healthcare quality is generally good.

Tap water in Aruba is safe to drink and is of high quality, produced by a desalination plant.

Noord offers numerous playgrounds, kid-friendly restaurants, and attractions like Butterfly Farm and Bubali Bird Sanctuary. Baby supplies are available at supermarkets.

Aruba is generally LGBTQ+ friendly, with a welcoming atmosphere and annual Pride events.

Pet policies vary by accommodation. Veterinary services and pet supply stores are available, but pet parks are limited.