ORANJESTAD, Aruba -- As is the case on many Caribbean islands,
driving on Aruba can be an adventure.
Here's a brief road map of everything clients need to know about
renting a car and taking to the road on Aruba.
Clients will have no trouble getting air-conditioned automatic
transmission models. Driving is on the right, as in the U.S., but
right turns are prohibited on red lights.
Main roads are paved, but attractions in the outlying areas
around Arikok National Park are better suited to cars with
four-wheel drive. Aruba's directional signs are adequate, but
street names often are missing.
If clients are planning to drive between the major hotels on
Eagle Beach and Palm Beach to nearby Oranjestad, there is little
danger of getting lost. The airport, right next to the capital, is
found easily, as well.
And, a well-touted tidbit from all tourism folks: the island's
native Dividivi trees all bend toward the resort area. If clients
do find themselves lost, instruct them to follow the trees back to
the hotels.
Most car rental firms provide handy maps containing
tourist-oriented information, and Aruba has a good selection of car
rental concerns at the airport, hotels and downtown. Hotel pick-ups
and drop-offs are arranged with ease.
Parking is free islandwide, although somewhat limited in
Oranjestad, depending upon the time of day. The Seaport Village
Mall near the Renaissance Aruba's Marina Tower has a large parking
lot.
One caveat: Dogs, cats, chickens and donkeys wander at will in
some areas, creating road hazards.
Among rental firms represented in Aruba are Amigo, Avis, Budget,
Economy, Hertz, Optima, Ruba, Sunshine, Super, Thrifty, Toyota and
2 Plus.
Be prepared to pay for gas in cash. While credit cards are
accepted in Aruba for most purchases, the Coastal station in
Oranjestad insisted on cash.
For more information, see related articles:Aruba's rough and rugged side, Desalination tour focuses on the sea-to-bottle
process.