In both Oranjestad and San Nicolas, long-term vacant buildings have become a growing problem. These vacant properties contribute to a rundown appearance of the main streets and hinder economic and social vitality. Many owners, often without mortgage burdens, demand...
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Vacancy Tax: A Solution for Abandoned Buildings in Aruba’s Mainstreets

Upgrading Aruba to Attract High-Spending Tourists
Aruba’s tourism industry is vital to its economy, but to attract high-spending tourists, the island must elevate its offerings. Affluent travelers seek more than sun and sand—they want luxury, exclusivity, and authentic experiences. Upgrades in accommodations,...

Editorial: A Strong Leader Makes a Strong Team: How Inspiration Makes the Difference
Leadership is more than a title. It is an art, a responsibility, and a test of character. A great team can thrive under the right leader, but it can also fall apart under a leader who doesn't know how to inspire. As the saying goes: "Under enough pressure, everything...

Vale Croes: The Pioneer of Aruban Culture and Humor
A Legendary Entertainer and Singer Rudolfo Valentino "Vale" Croes (November 5, 1951 – April 6, 2015) is considered an icon of Aruban culture. Known for his unforgettable humor, singing talent, and love for the island, he made a deep impression on the local...

Reforms for a Sustainable Budgeting System in Aruba
In the recent report on the Land Package of Aruba, titled "Implementation Agenda and Report for the Land Package of Aruba (September 1, 2024 – March 31, 2025)," financial management reforms in Aruba mark a new phase in the development of transparent, efficient, and...

Growth of Tourism in Aruba in November 2024: Key Statistics and Trends
Introduction Tourism in Aruba continues to grow, with a positive increase in the number of "stayover" guests in November 2024. This article provides a business analysis of the latest tourism figures, focusing on trends in visitor numbers, markets, and the evolution of...

Agri Innovation Park and Sustainable Growth: The New Horizon for Aruba’s Agriculture
In the recent implementation agenda for the Aruba Land Package (September 2024 - March 2025), the primary sector of Aruba is presented as a crucial pillar for sustainable economic development and food security. The report highlights various initiatives and strategies...

Changes to Aruba Online ED-Card Procedure Affecting Non-Resident Students
New Sustainability Fee and Updates to Aruba Online ED-Card for Travelers The Aruba Department of Immigration and AWSS (Aruba Web Services System) have introduced changes to the Aruba Online ED-Card process, including the implementation of a Sustainability Fee for...

Hilton Aruba Hosts Elegant Evening Reception to Thank Local Partners and Celebrate Resort Enhancements
Team members of the Sales, Catering, and Marketing departments at the Hilton Aruba Resort & Casino recently put together a beautiful evening reception to thank partners from the local business community for their continuous support in 2024. Co-hosting the...

Miss Universe 2024: Anouk Eman Shines on the International Stage for Aruba
Aruba’s Anouk Eman made her mark on the global stage during the Miss Universe 2024 pageant, held last Saturday at the Arena CDMX. While Denmark’s Victoria Kjær Theilvig ultimately took the crown, Eman’s outstanding performance brought pride to Aruba as she secured a...

Rocktober Festival 2024: Aruba’s Ultimate Rock Show Draws Unmatched Energy and Passion
Paseo Herencia, Palm Beach – For a magical night, Aruba’s Paseo Herencia became the beating heart of rock as the island’s iconic Rocktober Festival roared to life, pulling together fans, musicians, and new faces into a high-energy, unforgettable experience. Travelers...

Can the Sea Become the Next Economic Pillar of Aruba?
For many years, Aruba has heavily relied on its tourism industry as the backbone of its economy. However, as the island seeks to diversify its revenue streams, its surrounding waters offer tremendous potential for economic growth. By investing in maritime industries...

ActiveMirror Breaks Through: Indie Alt-Rock Band Joins Taco Bell’s Feed The Beat Ahead of New Album Release
Oranjestad, Aruba - Secret Agent Man Music is excited to announce that indie alternative band ActiveMirror has been selected for Taco Bell International’s Feed The Beat program. This program showcases emerging artists from the U.S. and beyond, offering them growth...

Gen Z Calls Out Older Generations in Aruba for Political Inaction
In Aruba, Generation Z is emerging as a powerful force for change, demanding more action on key issues like environmental protection, economic inequality, and social justice. Young Arubans are increasingly criticizing older generations for not doing enough to address...

Activemirror: From Humble Beginnings to Rising Stars
Who is Activemirror? In short, they’re a group of four talented young musicians from Aruba, creating a blend of sounds that's captured the hearts of listeners around the world. Let’s start with Elias Janssen, the bassist. He’s the shy, quiet one, usually tucked away...

San Nicolas, Aruba: Revitalizing Culture Through Murals
San Nicolas, affectionately known as Aruba’s “Sunrise City,” is a vibrant testament to artistic and cultural rejuvenation. Located on the island’s southeastern coast, this town has transformed into a colorful open-air gallery, thanks to an ambitious mural project that...
Other News

Kirsty Coventry Makes History as First Female President of the International Olympic Committee
In a groundbreaking moment for global sports leadership, Kirsty Coventry of Zimbabwe has been elected as the 10th President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), becoming the first female and first African to hold the position. Her election at the 144th IOC...

A New Era for the Celtics: NBA Franchise Sold for $6 Billion
In a landmark transaction that has sent shockwaves through the sports world, the Boston Celtics have been sold for an unprecedented $6 billion, setting a new record for the highest sale price of an NBA franchise. The deal marks a historic moment not only for the...

Zelenskyy Defends Ukrainian Sovereignty Over Nuclear Plants and Crimea
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has firmly reiterated that the country’s nuclear power plants belong solely to the Ukrainian people, dismissing recent speculation regarding potential U.S. ownership. Speaking at a news conference in Norway, Zelenskyy asserted...

EU’s Defense Strategy Prioritizes European Industry, Excludes U.S. and U.K. Firms
The European Union has unveiled a comprehensive defense strategy, allocating €150 billion to bolster its military capabilities by 2030. This initiative emphasizes reducing reliance on non-European defense contractors, notably excluding firms from the United States and...

Canada Seeks European Defense Partnerships Amid U.S. Tensions
In a strategic move reflecting shifting geopolitical dynamics, Canada is actively pursuing closer defense industry collaborations with the European Union (EU). This initiative aims to diversify Canada's defense procurement sources, reducing longstanding reliance on...