National traditions of Aruba. Habits, mentality and the way of living

The multi-ethnic population of Aruba is an example of the peaceful coexistence of different cultures. The vast majority of the population is a mixture of European, Caribbean, and African blood; about 15 percent of the rest of the population are Europeans, Indians, Asians, and Arawak Indians. Although Aruba remains Dutch autonomy, Arubans do not identify with the people of the Netherlands and are not interested in Dutch culture; they prefer to appeal to the local indigenous culture. The main language on the island is Creole Papiamento, most islanders speak it. Many also speak English, but Dutch remains the official language.

Arubans can be described as friendly and hospitable people; they are very fond of tourists and willingly introduce guests to their home country. Aruba justifies its tag of being the happiest island in the world. This is because everything required for a joyful and fun time is present here: a warm dry climate, unceasing winds which helps to neutralize the heat, wonderful nature, beautiful clear waters and beaches with safe white sands, as well as frequent holiday celebrations and festivals. The low crime rate also ensures that it is difficult to feel gloomy and sad when in the country. A very important rule that needs to be borne in mind when communicating with the Arubans, is that, upon meeting, you need to wish each other a good day (morning, evening). The same should also be done when parting. Arubans are polite and expect a similar attitude from guests.

During interaction, the residents of Aruba maintain at least a meter apart, but this distance is reduced between close associates. It is not customary to touch interlocutors, even during warm conversations in a narrow circle of loved ones. It is necessary to establish eye contact during a conversation in order to show your audience honesty and sincerity. The one who hides his eyes will create in the islander, a feeling of distrust. It is considered ugly to point a finger at someone or something; instead, Arubans use an open palm. In general, the behavior and etiquette in Aruba bears some similarity to that of Europe. It cannot be said that the locals are not punctual, but they can arrive at an occasion with a delay of no more than 20 minutes. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

In Aruba, there is no prejudice with regards to premarital relations, but an officially registered marriage has a large role in society. Children born out of wedlock are not considered something out of the ordinary or shameful. More often, Arubans marry members of their ethnic group, but inter-ethnic marriages are however far from uncommon. The family was and remains an important part of the life of most of the locals. Usually, the family consists of parents and children. The mother, who takes care of the children, often also working, is often considered the main parent. Arubans are serious about education, and it is rare to find a parent who does not want his children to go to college or university.

Most Arubans are Catholics. There are however other faiths in Aruba, although much less popular. They include evangelicals, Jews, and Muslims. Arubans believe in the immortality of the soul and the afterlife, as well as seeing the departed to another world. On the eighth day after a death, the bereaved traditionally open the windows of the house so that the soul of the dead can pass from this world to another. “Brua” is yet another Afro-Caribbean religion which focuses on magic. It is used mainly to cure the sick and predict the future. Little is known about this religious system. This is mainly due to the fact that believers are rarely willing to openly declare their commitment to Brua or talk about it.

The majority of adult women in Aruba have a job. This is because gender discrimination in the workplace and in the education system is minimal or absent. However, the situation of women is exacerbated by the fact that they have children who waits for them at home. Children are in need of nurturing which complicates the picture. Men also sometimes help their wives in taking care of their children and home, but for the time being it continues to be considered a female sphere. Homosexual relationships in the form of a civil partnership are allowed by law, but partners must go to the Netherlands to enter into marriage. Upon return, such marriages in Aruba are officially recognized. Surrogacy on the island is completely prohibited.

Arubans love sports, especially baseball, which is considered a national sport here. The weather on the island allows you to engage in sports all year round. Besides baseball, the islanders love golf and beach tennis. The popularity of such entertainment as bird watching is growing, and the island is perfect for this hobby. In the evenings, poker clubs are open on the island. The people of Aruba love and know how to tell interesting stories about their lives, the country, its people, culture, and nature. So for tourists who want to know more about this island of happy people, all they have to do is just inquire from the locals.