| Aruba's currency is the florin denoted by the letters 'Awg.'
but also widely known as 'Afl.' The official rate at which banks accept
U.S. dollar banknotes is Awg. 1,77 and checks at Awg. 1,78. The rate of exchange granted
by shops and hotels ranges from Awg. 1,75 to Awg. 1,80 per U.S. dollar. U.S. Dollars are
widely accepted in Aruba, and banks may exchange other foreign currency. |
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Traveler's checks are widely accepted and there is no
charge for using them in hotels, restaurants and stores. Major credit cards
are accepted at most establishments while personal checks are normally not accepted.
The Aruban florin is divided into 100 cents
and there are coins of 5, 10, 25, 50 cents square coin and the 1 florin (100 cents) coin
as well as the 5 florin (500 cent) coin.
The square shaped 50 cent "yotin" coin is
probably Aruba's best-known coin.
Banknotes are issued in denominations of
10, 25, 50, 100 and 500 florins. Many souvenirs are made with the square 50 cent coin
while the coin itself makes a unique gift for numismatic friends.
Cash may be obtained with MasterCard,
Visa and American Express cards at credit card offices, banks,
in some casinos and via Western Union. ATM cards and credit cards are accepted by
ATMs of Aruba Bank, Banco di Caribe, RBTT Bank, and Caribbean Mercantile Bank.
The card must have either a Cirrus or Visa Plus logo.
ATM instructions are normally given in Dutch, English, Spanish and
Papiamento. Cash is normally dispensed in local
currency.
ATM machines
Travelers with ATM cards bearing the CIRRUS, MAESTRO or Plus
System network logos can withdraw cash in Aruban florins. Home bank accounts will
be debited in dollars at a favorable exchange rate, and a service charge will apply.
Before departing for Aruba, it's important to verify whether your PIN number will work in
Aruba by calling 1-800-4-CIRRUS
Opening a bank account
You may open a bank account on the island but some restrictions may apply. Normally a
recommendation from your bank at home and/or a letter from a recognized professional such
as an accountant or lawyer is required. It is also possible for foreigners to
buy a house or property
in Aruba and in such a case it is recommended that a lawyer or a notary, who under Dutch
Law is a Doctor of Civil Law, (not merely a person authorized to witness documents),
advises you so as to protect your interests and supply you with the correct information
regarding your purchase.
Banking hours:
Weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Some banks close during lunchtime
(12:00 - 1:30 p.m.). Some are open longer on Fridays (until 5 or 6
p.m.). Caribbean Mercantile Bank's branch at the airport
is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to
6:00 p.m.
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