Currency:

Aruban guilder/florin (AWG)

When to go:

Anytime – the country sits outside hurricane belt

Known for:

White sand beaches

Languages:

Dutch and Papiamento

Although only 15 miles away from Venezuela, nearly 75% of the 1.5 million annual tourists come from the United States, drawn by the low crime rate and the white sand beaches. Many direct flights are available from the United States East Coast into the Reina Beatrix International Airport, south of the capital, Oranjestad. There are also daily flights from Venezuela and non-stop service from the UK and Amsterdam.

Aruba is slightly larger than Washington DC, covering 70 square miles. The flat, riverless land is dotted with cactus and enjoys a dry, even keel climate with a temperature around 81 degrees Fahrenheit.

A member of the Kingdom of Netherlands, Aruba's national languages are Dutch and local Papiamento (a mixture of different languages and dialects including Spanish, Portuguese and Duth). However, English is widely spoken.

Attractions in Aruba include the natural pools, the California lighthouse, snorkel shipwreck tours, 'natural bridges', caves and of course, the multiple beaches. For a truly local experience, pick up a six-pack of the locally brewed Balashi beer. Tours of the brewery and a local aloe factory are also available.

Learn more about Aruba at the national tourism website: www.aruba.com