Digital Nomads Welcome! 5 Tips for Working from Aruba
Working remotely is now more common than ever.
Many digital nomads and remote workers have decided that a change of scenery is exactly what they need right now. And what better backdrop for your Zoom meetings than the stunning vistas of the One Happy Island? As someone who works from paradise every day, I can teach you what I know about making the best of your One Happy Workation in Aruba. But don't just take my word for it. Check out these testimonials first!
Tab Hauser
Working in Aruba during the pandemic has been good for our spirit, body and relationship. We escaped the cold winter, and we can still work and Zoom with friends but now from our balcony facing the sea.
Kacie Darden
My 6-year-old twin boys and I spent two months in the fall of 2020 on a work- and school-cation, and it was absolutely the best experience! When my husband came down to the island at the end of the 2 months, he saw why we kept extending our stay. We had days of remote work and virtual school followed by afternoons and evenings by the beach and pool with weekends exploring the island. We couldn't have imagined a better experience thanks to the great people and island of Aruba!
1. Staying Connected
One of the most important elements of a successful remote work environment is technology. You won’t get very far without a stable internet connection. Rest assured that most hotels and vacation rentals offer great wireless internet. You will be able to join your meetings, send your emails, and submit your projects with ease.
If you would like to stay online when you’re not home, be sure to check if your phone plan has international data coverage. You can also buy a sim card and get mobile data from one of Aruba’s telecom companies, Setar or Digicel. That way you don’t have to miss a thing while you’re on the go. I do recommend disconnecting every now and then so you can be fully immersed in all that Aruba has to offer.
If you need to replace any of your electronics during your stay, rest assured that there are some very modern electronics stores in Aruba. Some great ones are Boolchands, Sams, Lucky Electonics, RadioShack and more!
workation setup by Boardwalk Boutique Hotel
2. Your (Home) Office
No matter where you’ll be working, it is important to have a comfortable workspace where you’re free to let your creativity and productivity soar. Many hotel rooms and vacation rentals have a nice desk area or a table where you can set up your workspace. Be sure to look out for that in the amenities list before you book. I personally recommend spending some time working outdoors or on your balcony if you have one. Some fresh air and the warm Aruba weather work wonders for your mood, and it shows in the work you produce!
While most remote work is digital, I know that many of us still use traditional office supplies like planners, notebooks, and sticky notes. If you’re like this, don’t forget to pack that stationery. If you prefer traveling light, some great stores for office supplies are Paper Sisters, DeWit &VanDorp, Plaza Bookshop, and more!
3. Breaks Beyond the Water Cooler
It’s a good idea to explore your surroundings whenever you have some downtime. Take a lunch break on the beach, for example. I promise you, it’s one of the best ways to relax your mind before an afternoon of hard work.
4. Timezone Turmoil
One thing to be mindful of when workationing abroad, possible differing timezones! If you are used to jotting down all your meetings and deadlines in a physical planner or to-do list, consider using a digital calendar instead. You will be able to set your timezone to Aruba’s, and it will adjust the times on all your meeting invites. If you are still unsure, there are many timezone converters available online. You’ll never have to miss a thing.
5. Unwind after Work
When it’s time to clock out, you’ll have the One Happy Island to enjoy at your leisure! These are the things I like to do after a long day at work.
Grab dinner
While you should definitely try learning how to cook some dushi local dishes while you’re here, Aruba just has too many great restaurants not to try them! These are some spots that are popular with locals.
Learn a new skill!
Being productive doesn’t have to be boring in Aruba. Why not learn something new while you’re here? Here’s some inspiration:
- Go horseback riding.
- Get PADI certified. Learn how to explore Aruba underwater, it’ll be worth your while.
- Take some dance classes! Salsa is very popular around here.
Go see a movie!
There are quite a few movie theaters spread over the island. My personal favorite way to enjoy a good movie is at the newly re-opened The Movies @ Drive-in, be sure to check it out!
There are so many more ways to enjoy One Happy Workation here in Aruba. We’re happy to share a slice of local life with you while you’re here. See you soon!
