Money Matters
Aruba Currency
Our currency is the Aruban Florin abbreviated "AWG" or "Afl", also known locally as :Guilders".
1.00AWG = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of 500AWG, 100AWG, 50AWG, 25AWG and 10AWG.
Coins are in denominations of 5AWG, 2.5AWG and 1AWG, and 50, 25, 10 and 5 cents.
The U.S. Dollar is accepted nearly everywhere. There is no need to exchange U.S. Dollars for
Florin.
Other currencies can be exchanged in banks. Currency
can also be obtained from ATMs in Oranjestad.
Credit/Debit Cards and ATMs
Major credit cards are widely accepted by many shops and hotels. They can also be used
in ATMs if the card bears CIRRUS or Plus System logos.
Traveller's Checks
To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take traveller's
checks in U.S. Dollars or Euros.
Banking Hours
Mon-Fri 0800-1200 and 1330-1600. Some remain open at lunchtime.
The exchange rate varies only slightly:
£1.00= AWG 2.63
$1.00= AWG 1.79
€1.00= AWG 2.38
Sales (BBO) Tax
In 2009 Aruba instituted a sales tax on the supply of goods and services in the amount of 3% of the sale which has been reduced to 1.5% on
January 1, 2010. As it applies to tourists, this means (among other things) a tax is charged on hotel bookings, activities and dining.
Hotel Room Tax
The Aruban Government levies a 6% room tax on all hotel and timeshare rooms. Hotels and timeshares levy an 11% hotel service charge on
rooms. Some properties also levy an energy service charge. All will be detailed on your checkout bill.
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