San Nicolas: The Cultural Heartbeat of Aruba

• HelloBon dia
  [bon dee-ah]
• GoodbyeAyo
  [ah-yo]
• YesSi
  [see]
• NoNo
  [no]
• Please/You're welcomePor fabor
  [por fa-bor]
• Thank youDanki
  [dan-kee]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon
  [par-don]
• How are you?Con ta bai?
  [kon ta bai]
• Fine. And you?Bon. Y bo?
  [bon. ee bo]
• Do you speak English?Bo ta papia ingles?
  [bo ta pa-pya ing-les]
• I don't understandMi no ta comprende
  [mee no ta com-pren-de]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi ke mira e menu, por fabor
  [mee kee mee-rah e menu, por fa-bor]
• I don't eat meatMi no ta come carne
  [mee no ta com-eh car-ne]
• Cheers!Salud!
  [sa-lood]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMi ke paga, por fabor
  [mee kee pa-ga, por fa-bor]

• Help!Yudami!
  [yu-da-mee]
• Go away!Bay afor!
  [bay a-for]
• Call the Police!Yama polis!
  [ya-ma po-lees]
• Call a doctor!Yama dokter!
  [ya-ma dok-ter]
• I'm lostMi a perde mi mes
  [mee a per-dee mee mes]
• I'm illMi ta malu
  [mee ta ma-loo]

• I'd like to buy...Mi ke cumpra...
  [mee kee koom-pra]
• I'm just lookingMi ta solamente mira
  [mee ta so-la-men-te mee-rah]
• How much is it?Cuanto ta costa esaki?
  [kwan-to ta kos-ta eh-sa-kee]
• That's too expensiveEsaki ta muchu caro
  [eh-sa-kee ta moo-choo ka-ro]
• Can you lower the price?Por fabor, por bisa e prijs
  [por fa-bor, por bee-sa e prys]

• What time is it?Kuanto or ta?
  [kwan-to or ta]
• It's one o'clockTa un or
  [ta oon or]
• Half past (10)Mitad di dies
  [mee-tad dee dees]
• MorningMadruga
  [mad-roo-ga]
• AfternoonAtardi
  [a-tar-dee]
• EveningAnochi
  [a-no-chee]
• YesterdayAyer
  [ai-yer]
• TodayAwe
  [a-we]
• TomorrowMañana
  [ma-nya-na]
• 1Uno
  [oo-no]
• 2Dos
  [dos]
• 3Tres
  [tres]
• 4Cuatro
  [kwa-tro]
• 5Cinco
  [seen-ko]
• 6Seis
  [sace]
• 7Siete
  [see-eh-te]
• 8Ocho
  [oh-cho]
• 9Nueve
  [nwe-veh]
• 10Diez
  [dees]

• Where's the...?Unda ta...?
  [oon-da ta]
• What's the address?Kiko ta e adres?
  [kee-ko ta e ad-res]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Por fabor, por mustra mi (riba e mapa)?
  [por fa-bor, por moos-tra mee (ree-ba e ma-pa)]
• When's the next (bus)?Con ta e siguiente (bus)?
  [kon ta e see-gi-en-te (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (pa ....)
  [oon bo-lee-to (pa)]

San Nicolas, located on the southeastern tip of Aruba, has a rich history that dates back to the Caquetio Indians. This indigenous group, part of the Arawak people, first inhabited the island around 1000 AD. They were known for their seafaring skills and agricultural practices, which laid the foundation for the area's early development.

In the early 16th century, Spanish explorers arrived in Aruba, marking the beginning of European influence. However, it was the Dutch who ultimately took control in 1636, incorporating Aruba into the Dutch West India Company. San Nicolas, like the rest of the island, fell under Dutch colonial administration, which significantly impacted its cultural and economic landscape.

The discovery of oil in Venezuela in the early 20th century led to the establishment of the Lago Oil Refinery in San Nicolas in 1924. This refinery became one of the largest in the world and was a major employer in Aruba. The influx of workers from around the globe transformed San Nicolas into a bustling, multicultural community, contributing to its diverse cultural fabric.

During World War II, San Nicolas gained strategic importance due to its oil refinery. The refinery supplied fuel to Allied forces, making it a target for German U-boats. In 1942, the refinery and surrounding areas were attacked, highlighting San Nicolas' critical role in the war effort and its resilience in the face of adversity.

After World War II, San Nicolas continued to thrive as a cultural melting pot. The town became known for its vibrant cultural scene, influenced by the diverse backgrounds of its residents, including Caribbean, Latin American, and European immigrants. This period saw the growth of local festivals, music, and cuisine, adding to the town's unique charm.

The late 20th century brought economic challenges to San Nicolas as the Lago Oil Refinery faced declining profitability and eventually closed in 1985. This closure led to economic hardships for the town, prompting efforts to diversify its economy and promote tourism. The shift marked a new chapter in San Nicolas' history, focusing on cultural preservation and new economic opportunities.

In recent years, San Nicolas has undergone a revitalization, positioning itself as Aruba's cultural capital. The town is now famous for its vibrant street art, including murals created by local and international artists. Annual events like the Aruba Art Fair celebrate this artistic renaissance, attracting visitors and fostering a sense of community pride.

San Nicolas is located on the southeastern tip of Aruba. The nearest international airport is Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA) in Oranjestad, approximately 20 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a rental car to San Nicolas. The journey typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes by road. Public buses are also available from Oranjestad to San Nicolas and offer a more budget-friendly option.

San Nicolas is a small town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. The Arubus network operates buses that connect San Nicolas with other parts of the island, including Oranjestad and Palm Beach. Renting a car can also be a convenient option for exploring Aruba at your own pace.

The official currency in Aruba is the Aruban Florin (AWG). U.S. Dollars are also widely accepted. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available throughout San Nicolas, and they dispense both Aruban Florins and U.S. Dollars.

San Nicolas is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While San Nicolas is not known for high crime rates targeting tourists, it's always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially in more isolated areas.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in San Nicolas. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. The Dr. Horacio E. Oduber Hospital in Oranjestad is the main hospital on the island.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and casually, but remember that beachwear is not appropriate in town areas. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress modestly and avoid loud behavior. Public Transport: Do be respectful and courteous. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Good morning/afternoon.' A handshake is common when meeting someone new. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience San Nicolas like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Aruban goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss the vibrant street art in the downtown area, a testament to the town's artistic spirit. For a unique experience, visit the weekly Carubbian Festival, which showcases local music, dance, and cuisine.