The official language is Dutch but English and Spanish are taught in school and are also widely spoken. Some French is also understood. Most islanders also speak the native language Papiamento at home or between friends.
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The official currency is the Aruba Florin or Guilder (AWG), which is tied to the U.S. Dollar. U.S. currency is accepted everywhere and other major currencies can be exchanged at banks. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted and there are ATMs in Oranjestad. Travelers checks are also widely accepted and it is best to have checks in U.S. dollars or Euros to avoid additional charges.
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The international access code for Aruba is +297. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 001 for the United States). City codes are not required. International, direct and operator-assisted calls are possible worldwide. A GSM network covers the island. Cellular phones are available for rental andInternet cafes are widely available in tourist areas.
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A 10 or 15 percent tip is usually added to restaurant, bar and room service bills in most hotels, otherwise a tip should be added to the bill (usually 10-20 percent depending on service). There is an 11 percent room tax on hotel bills. Taxis should be tipped around 15 percent and porters expect a tip of U.S.$1 per bag.
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Crime is not a major problem in Aruba and most visits are trouble-free, however, visitors are still advised to take common-sense precautions, locking valuables in the hotel safe and taking care when walking home at night.
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There are no special health requirements for visitors to Aruba, but travelers coming from countries in Africa or the Americas infected with Yellow Fever, aged over six months, need an immunization certificate. Aruba has experienced occasional outbreaks of Dengue Fever, a flu-like illness transmitted by Aedesmosquitoes that favor densely populated areas, therefore the use of insect repellent is advised. Visitors are warned that some types of fish, including some tropical reef fish, are poisonous when eaten, even cooked. Medical care is good in Aruba, which has one hospital, the Dr. H. E. Oduber Hospital, with three classes of service for patients depending on the level of their insurance. Health insurance is recommended. Food and water are considered safe.
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Electric current is 127 volts, 60Hz. Flat two- and three-pin plugs are standard.
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