Oranjestad is the capital and largest city of Aruba .

Understand

Oranjestad is on the southern coast of Aruba. The city combines governmental buildings, a picturesque ocean, and a busy shopping center. Both tourists and locals occupy the city throughout the year.

Getting there

If you are going in from the high rise hotels, just to walk around downtown, you are better off riding the bus. It is $2 round trip, (vs taxi, 20 round-trip).

Things to do

• There are several carnivals, festivals, and parades that take place throughout the year. Check the event calendar

• Oranjestad is a fun place for water activities such as snorkeling, boat rides, parasailing and fishing.

Eat

The Paddock has a view of the cruise ships, and the lunch special state (skewers) are reasonably priced.

Sleep

• Paradera Park Apartments, ☎ +297-5823289/5823278 (info@paraderapark-aruba.com, fax: +297-5823261), Paradera Park is a large apartment resort with studios and 1-bedroom apartments, all have private terrace/balcony and aircondition. Tropical gardens, large swimming pool, cabanas and hammocks $70-100/$95-130 (studio/1-bedroom).

• Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino, ☎ 011 297 5 836000 (fax: 011 297 5 834389), Two distinctive lodging options for young couples and families respectively. Both have pools and 40-acres of private beach

• Talk of the Town Hotel and Beach Club, ☎ +297-5823380 (fax: +297-582-0327), Across the street from Surfside Beach, the this recently-renovated hotel is located 1 mile from the airport and a pleasant 10-minute walk from downtown.

Buy

• Shop Oranjestad's marketplace to find locally made art and handicrafts.

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• Purchase fresh fish from merchants along the wharf.