subject: Traveling To Oranjestad, Aruba [print this page] The capital city of Aruba is called Oranjestad, which is also the largest settlement in all of Aruba.
Located on the south coast of the island, Oranjestad is the place where the most important buildings of the country are located. From here, you can enjoy some spectacular views of the ocean, and you can also enjoy some shopping as the capital city of Aruba is well known for its shopping malls. Many tourists come here yearly to enjoy all that Aruba has to offer and Oranjestad in particular.
The population of Oranjestad reaches almost 30,000, but the fact that the city is on the smaller side should not bother you, since you will be able to visit all of it on foot. While walking on its quaint streets, it's easy to observe the colonial architecture built in the Dutch style, since the Dutch were the ones to colonize this island.
A walk around the harbor can prove even more picturesque. Here, Venezuelan ships stop by to sell fish, and the waterfront market is used by vendors to sell produce and exotic spices.
On your tour of the city, don't forget to visit Fort Zouman, dating from the 17th century (which is the oldest building in all Aruba), and the two most important museums, the Numismatic and the Archaeological museums. If you cross the street from the fort, you will find Wilhelmina Park, where you can enjoy a nice walk in the gardens as well as a walk on the L.G. Smith Boulevard. Here you can see a statue of the Queen, and you can enjoy a stroll around the boulevard's gardens. Walking around downtown should take you at least two hours by foot.
The city is not the only place to explore; exploring the neighborhoods can be quite rewarding as well. If you do not mind a bit of physical activity, you can climb on Hooiberg, or the Haystack, from where you can really enjoy the views of the city.
Oranjestad can also be explored by bus, and the fee is $2 USD per trip, which is fairly cheap.
There are many activities for tourists that you may enjoy in Oranjestad. You can try some snorkeling or embark on a boat ride. You can also try your hand at fishing or parasailing, if you are more of the adventurous type.
Oranjestad is known for its amazing festivals and parades which are held all through the year. The most important of them are the Torch Parade, the Children's Grand Carnival Parade and the Bon Bini Festival. Also, you should not forget about the annual celebrations for the Oranjestad Carnival, which may be the most important event on the island.
It is great to do some shopping when in Oranjestad. The local marketplace is the ideal spot for buying handcrafted items and local art pieces.
by: Archie Blazer
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