Senior travel: Oranjestad (Aruba)
An easier pace for an older traveller: how many stops fit in a day, which places are step-free, and what the guide says about getting around, medicines and stairs.
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Pace for a day
About 3 stops a day. 5 h out − 45 min rest, divided by an average visit of 48 min (from this city’s guide) + 30 min to move.
Places, easiest access first
- Wilhelmina ParkStep-free: yes · about 25 minPaved paths; level ground.
- Waterfront promenade and cruise terminalStep-free: yes · about 40 minLevel paved promenade; long and shadeless.
- Main Street (Caya G.F. Betico Croes)Step-free: yes · about 45 minNarrow pavements; some kerbs and shop steps.
- National Archaeological Museum ArubaStep-free: yes · about 60 minSmall indoor galleries on the ground level; check the toilet.
- Renaissance Marketplace and the marinaStep-free: yes · about 70 minMostly level and paved; a few steps at some terraces.
- Fort Zoutman and Willem III TowerStep-free: partial (check before you go) · about 50 minUneven old stone and a few steps at the fort; the tower is narrow.
Getting around in Oranjestad (Aruba)
Town pavements are narrow with kerbs and few ramps; the marina and waterfront are level but hot. Taxis and hotel shuttles are the workable route.
- Streets:
- Narrow pavements, kerbs and vendors; slow for wheelchairs and strollers.
- Public transit:
- The public buses have limited accessibility; use a taxi.
- Hotels:
- Beach hotels have lifts and ramps; older guest houses may not.
- Beaches:
- Some resorts offer beach wheelchairs; ask ahead.
Medicines and health on the ground
- Travel insurance · before flying: Advised; medical evacuation is expensive.
- Sun and heat:
- Strong sun all year; drink water, use sun cream and rest in shade every hour.
- Water:
- Tap water is desalinated and safe; bottled water is common.
- Sea:
- Rip currents and boat traffic: swim near lifeguards and use licensed operators.
- Mosquitoes:
- Use repellent in the wetter months.
- Insurance:
- Private care is expensive; buy travel insurance with medical cover.
More: how much medicine to pack, medicine times across time zones.
Ask your insurer
Age limits and prices differ by policy and the guides do not hold them, so put these to the insurer before you buy.
- What is the oldest age the policy covers, at purchase and on the last day of the trip?
- Does the price or the cover change after a certain age?
- Are existing conditions covered, and what must be declared?
- Does the cover include medical evacuation and trip interruption?
Not medical advice. This page does not know anyone’s health. Ask a doctor before the trip, and carry a list of medicines and conditions.