The People of Aruba

Aruba's population of about 120,000 inhabitants is made up of a broad international mixture of well-educated people with a pleasant nature and a zest for hospitality. The modern Aruban is generally of mixed ancestry, claiming Caquetio Indian, African and European roots. Aruba's strong economy, excellent living conditions and prime weather continues to attract individuals from all over the world. Today, the island claims over 79 different nationalities, who live and work peacefully on the island.

The "unofficial" language of Aruba is Papiamento, also a mix of Indian, African and European. Dutch is the official language, but every Aruban child studies English and Spanish from the age of l0 and most residents speak it well.

As you explore, as you get to know Aruba, you'll soon begin to notice the smiling faces everywhere. Real smiles. Gracious smiles. Sheer-joy of living smiles. Aruba, as any traveler here will tell you, must surely be among the most welcoming places on earth.

Maybe it's the Dutch tradition of hospitality, maybe it's the long and prosperous history of the island, maybe it's the year-round warmth of the sunshine and the fresh breezes of the trade winds. Whatever it is, it's absolutely true: Aruba is a genuinely happy place to be. And the people who live here, in the cities, in the towns, in the countryside, are genuinely happy to be sharing it with you.

You see, not only is this an island where happiness lives -- in Aruba, there's so much happiness to spare, we want to be sure you take some of it back home with you.