Though Aruba is most often known for its tropical beaches, it also offers significant business opportunities. Thanks to its diverse economy, favorable legal system, and remarkable human development index, the island has become a favorite among investors in the know. In addition, the high living standards and agreeable year-round weather have also made it a go-to destination for international MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) events, as well as for individual digital nomads who are up for mixing business with pleasure.
Though there’s plenty to like about Aruba as a business destination, first-time visitors can be easily caught off-guard by the country’s many charms when they come unprepared. Before your next business trip to Aruba, take the time to go through these tips so you can remain productive throughout your entire stay.
1. Go With Vacation Rentals, Not Resorts
Though resorts may be a good pick for a short weekend getaway, vacation rentals will offer you more value for long business trips. Depending on your preferred mix of business and pleasure, you can easily rent a beachfront residence, luxury townhouse, or condo within a short distance of your workplace, often for less than the cost of a stay at a resort. And unlike with many resorts, you can easily invite large groups over to your rental home for meetings and team-building sessions. Get in touch with VacationAruba’s in-house activities specialist for recommendations and personalized experiences that are off the beaten path.
2. Stay Connected with Your Team
Most rental homes targeted at business travelers will come with high-speed Wi-Fi for keeping up-to-date with your team. A growing number of public venues also offer free Wi-Fi, particularly in the capital, Oranjestad. However, if you’re going to be visiting for more than just a few days, you can consider purchasing a local SIM card for your mobile data needs.
3. Try Aruba’s Co-Working Spaces
Aruba’s favorable business climate has resulted in it developing a healthy co-working space scene. If you don’t like working where you live or if you simply want to mix things up a little, these spots can provide you with a professional environment where you can stay focused. Importantly, these places may prove crucial if you want to network with locally based professionals.
4. Use Local Transportation
There are no services similar to Uber or Lyft in Aruba. However, the island does have plentiful taxicabs as well as a reliable island bus system. If you prefer to drive yourself, there are also car rental services that you can try. If you do decide to rent a car, be sure to rent a vacation home with an appropriately sized garage or parking space.
5. Commit to a Productive Routine
As business-friendly as Aruba is, it is ultimately a tropical paradise with a tourism industry that is focused on showing visitors a great time. While you shouldn’t forego all of the wonderful diversions that Aruba has to offer, it helps to keep your attention focused on business.
Before you arrive, plan out a daily routine similar to your usual workday and schedule your free time for specific activities you’d like to try. This should help you maintain productivity and ensure you can still enjoy the wonderful attractions of the island.
6. Optimize Your Workspace
If you’re working in Aruba for the long haul, you may want to set up a productive workspace that’s free from distractions. Some rentals that are designed for business travelers may have dedicated work areas kitted out with useful equipment like printers and monitors. However, you may need to confirm this before booking.
If you’re particular about your work setup, you can also bring portable monitors and other peripherals on your trip so that you have a work setup similar to what you’re accustomed to at home. If you’re from North America, you’ll be glad to know that Aruba’s electrical grid supplies a voltage of 127V through predominantly Type A or B outlets. This means that most equipment designed for the US and Canada should work just fine on the island.
7. Stay Hydrated
In contrast to the humid conditions of most other Caribbean destinations, Aruba has a dry climate similar to those of seaside deserts. This makes it important to watch your hydration levels as you work and travel around the island. You can set a timer on your smartphone to give you a quick reminder to take a few sips of water, now and then.
Many visitors instinctively reach for bottled water but, fortunately, Aruba has some of the best quality tap water in the world. Skip the commercially bottled water and, instead, bring a reusable bottle that you can fill at the tap.
8. Eat Healthily
Diets can easily deteriorate when you’re out on a business trip, especially in a destination known for its diverse culinary offerings. To maintain your health and energy levels for the work ahead, try to be mindful of the food offerings at local restaurants and try to cook meals in your rental home’s kitchen when you can.
Fortunately, Aruba produces a remarkable variety of very high-quality fruits and vegetables, most of which can be purchased at local markets. If you often find yourself peckish at work, you can also try the island’s many local snacks for a refreshing alternative to unhealthy processed treats.
From the Boardroom to the Beach and Beyond
It can be tough to keep your eyes on the prize when you’re constantly exposed to Aruba’s wonderful sights and perfect beach weather. Thankfully, these tips should ensure that your next trip to the island remains productive, even as you enjoy Aruba’s unparalleled beauty. Plan your next business trip with VacationAruba to ensure your stay in Aruba is as magical as it is worthwhile.