Aruba’s Florin Explained

Some people contemplating a trip to Aruba asked me about the local currency. I explained that the florin is the name of the official money, but that US dollars are also widely accepted. In any given transaction, you might even see the two currencies mixed. Hence, a little video, explaining the exchange rate and showing the different notes and coins:

As you saw in the video, the exchange rate isn’t complicated. If you’re in the tourist area, you’ll mostly see US dollars. However, if you venture out to the local joints I mention on The Bent Page, you’re more likely to encounter the florin. Either way, with a fixed exchange rate, it’s pretty much the same, at least in terms of the ratio. Enjoy your visit whatever money you’re spending. Bon dia.

iStore, Aruba, video visit

There is an iStore on Aruba these days and how appropriate to make a visit on the anniversary of Steve Jobs’ birthday. Here’s the video:

There are friendly, helpful people at the iStore. If you need a cable or a repair or just want to check out an Apple product, feel free to stop in. And did you notice that old iMac and even older Mac 512K? (I think that 512K Mac was called the Fat Mac, but I’m not sure.) Those are real conversation pieces. Special thanks to Milo for showing me the store. Bon dia.

Essoville Rumshop, Aruba, video

People ask me what a rumshop is. I tell them a shack with a bar. Sometimes more, sometimes less, but generally a rum shop is simply a place to stop in for a cold drink when you feel like it. It’s a hangout, the local pub Caribbean style. The Essoville Rumshop is one of my favorites in Aruba. The drinks are cold and I usually chat with my friends or someone new. Here’s my video visit:

As you can see, it’s not complicated. Cash money on the countertop and plenty of shade awaits.

Published in: on February 23, 2012 at 9:28 am  Leave a Comment  
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Well Done Snack, Aruba

Plenty of snack trucks dot the island of Aruba. I’ve been driving by the Well Done at the Talk of the Town traffic circle for a quite a while and stop in there from time to time for comfort food. Here’s a quick visit on video:

That’s comfort food that will fill the hole. Plus, you get double the starch: rice and fries. All that for about 17 florins (approximately $10). Stay tuned for more visits to snack trucks, rum shops, and other interesting places here in Aruba.

Published in: on February 22, 2012 at 2:25 am  Leave a Comment  
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