ARUBA
The small island of Aruba (just under 70 mi2) is located approximately 17 miles north of Venezuela’s Paraguana Peninsula. Aruba is a self-governing member of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. It is a relatively flat island with the highest elevation being 617 ft. above sea level. The population is estimated at 99,468 (2005).
The two “official” languages are Dutch and Papiamento, a Creole language derived from 16th century Portuguese. But Spanish and English are also spoken. It is not unusual for islanders to speak four languages.
The Church of the Nazarene in Aruba
The organization of the first Church of the Nazarene in Aruba took place on Sunday, February 13, 2000 in an evening service. Thirty-two people were received into membership. A church board was appointed to serve through the year with new elections to take place in January 2001. Also the secretary and treasurer were appointed for one year. Of the 32 received into membership, only two were by transfer from another Nazarene church (the pastor and his wife). Rev. Leontes Augustin was appointed pastor. Other members originate from different countries: Venezuela, Columbia, Peru, Suriname, Haiti, Dominican Republic and Aruba. The services are conducted in Spanish. Papiamento is the common language on the island. Spanish is second, however English is widely spoke due to tourism. With all these languages it is a bit surprising to learn that Dutch is the official language of the island.
The Church of the Nazarene is not yet officially registered in Aruba. However, we have a good report with the Government and some license to operate as a denomination. Currently Aruba is a part of the Suriname district (Phase 1). This church plant is unique in that the initiation and inception originated from another Caribbean country.
Work and Witness
Travel
There are many options for flying into Queen Beatrix International Airport in Aruba as it is serviced by most of the major US airlines. There are direct flights from Charlotte, Houston, Miami, New York, etc., and connecting flights from San Juan, Puerto Rico. There are also many flights from South America as well as Europe.
A passport is all that is required for citizens of the US and Canada. Citizens of other countries may be required to obtain a visa for entry into Aruba, so please check for your particular country of residence.
There is a departure tax of $36.75 for departures to the US. This tax is often included in the price of the ticket, so be sure to verify that when you purchase your ticket.
Once there, public buses cost about $1.25 US for a one way ride. Bikes may also be available if you know where to look. And, of course, many places are close enough to walk and get a good view of the surroundings.
Climate
The climate in Aruba is dry. The average yearly temperature is fairly consistent, around 82°F. What rain they receive usually falls in late autumn.
Electricity
The current in Aruba is the same as in the US, 110V / 60 Hz.
Currency
Aruba’s currency is the Aruban Florin (AWG). The current exchange rate is $1US = $1.80 AWG. To check the updated exchange rate, please see:
http://www.oanda.com/convert/classic
Many places in Aruba will accept US dollars as well, so keep that in mind before exchanging a large sum of money. Credit cards are also widely accepted.
Time
As with most Caribbean islands, Aruba is in the Atlantic Standard Time Zone. This is one hour ahead of Eastern Standard Time, except during Daylight Savings Time when it is the same (Aruba doesn’t observe Daylight Savings Time).
Food
You can bring about any kind of food with you, except for fresh fruits, vegetables and meats. You can buy what you need in Aruba but it probably will cost more than you’re used to.
There are restaurants galore in Aruba. If you chose to eat out, be sure to try the stobà, which is a type of lamb or goat stew. Aruba also has all the popular fast food restaurants if you are not into eating new foods.
Water
Aruba has one of the worlds largest saltwater desalination plants, so it is safe to drink the water from any tap there. You don’t need to buy bottled water (unless, of course, you prefer bottle water).
Free Days
There are many activities for you to consider participating in on your free days. There are island tours and cave spelunking, as well as swimming, snorkeling, diving, and horseback riding just to name a few.
Things to Bring with you
- Bible & notebook
- Mosquito repellant
- Sunscreen
- Beddings
- Light clothing
- Jeans for working
- Comfortable shoes, sandals or sneakers
- Medication (difficult to get in the country)
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Umbrella
- Camera with extra film (optional)
Papiamento Phrases
Bon Bini - Welcome
Bon dia - Good moring
Bon Tardi - Good Afternoon
Bon Nochi - Good evening
Con ta bai? Con ta? - How are you?
Con yama bo? - What is your name?
Masha danki - Thank you very much
Te aworo - See you later
Hopi bon - very good
pabien - congratulations
sunchi - kiss
dushi - sweetheart
ayo - goodbye
pasa bon dia - have a good day
Contacts
Rev. Carlos Moises
011-297-585-7113 – home
011-297-568-8149 – cell
Or write at:
Savana Basora 131b
Pos Chiqito, Aruba
OR CONTACT
Rev. Curt Luthye – Regional W&W Coordinator - cluthye@caribnaz.org
Or write at: Caribbean Regional Office
14250 SW136th St. Bay 15
Miami, FL 33186
Or call at: (305) 233-5444
SOURCES:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aruba