Aruba Food and Drink

Not much food is grown locally, but the variety in the local cuisine is extensive. There is a very wide range of international cuisine and several of the more famous fast-food chains have premises on the island.

Specialities

Keshi yena (Gouda cheese packed with a spicy meat mixture of either chicken or beef and then baked).
Stobà (lamb or goat stew).
Cala (bean fritters).
Pastechi (meat- or cheese-stuffed turnovers).
Ayacas (leaf-wrapped meat rolls).

Tipping

Hotels add a 15% service charge to any food or beverage bill. Restaurants may add 15% service to the bill; if not, 10 to 15% is normal.

Regional drinks

As ever in the Caribbean, all alcoholic punches and cocktails will usually be given a 'kick' with a liberal dose of rum.

Drinking age

18.

Visa and passport information is updated regularly and is correct at the time of publishing. You should verify critical travel information independently with the relevant embassy before you travel.