Travelers heading to Aruba will now encounter a new $20 entry fee, effective as of July 1 this year. This fee, introduced by the Aruba Tourism Authority, aims to fund sustainability upgrades across the island.
Key Points
- Aruba introduces a $20 Sustainability Fee for air travelers.
- The fee funds sewage water treatment plant upgrades and other infrastructure projects.
- The fee is payable online before check-in and is valid for one year.
- Similar fees are being implemented in other destinations like Venice and the Galapagos Islands.
Details of the Sustainability Fee
Starting on July 1 travelers flying to Aruba must pay a $20 Sustainability Fee. This fee is collected through the island’s Embarkation & Disembarkation (ED) Card platform, which supports English, Spanish, and Dutch. The fee is mandatory and must be paid before checking in for flights, as travelers who do not pay will not receive clearance to enter Aruba.
Purpose of the Fee
The Sustainability Fee is aimed at funding critical infrastructure projects, including upgrades to the island’s sewage water treatment plants. These projects are essential for enhancing Aruba’s sustainability efforts and maintaining its appeal as a top travel destination. The fee is an addition to the existing $3 environmental tax that travelers already pay.
Exemptions and Payment Details
Several groups are exempt from the fee, including children under eight years old, Cruise ship passengers, Aruba residents, and certain students. For frequent visitors, the fee is only required once per calendar year, simplifying repeat visits. Payments can be made using major credit cards or Apple Pay through the online Embarkation & Disembarkation Card platform, and cash payments on arrival are not accepted.
Comparison to Other Destinations
Aruba is part of a growing trend among popular tourist destinations to implement entry fees aimed at managing Overtourism and funding sustainable development. For instance, Venice has introduced an entry fee to reduce the number of day-trippers, while the Galapagos Islands will soon charge $200 per adult and $100 per child starting August 1. Similarly, Amsterdam and Paris have increased their tourist taxes to support infrastructure and sustainability goals, and Iceland is considering a new tourist tax for climate initiatives.
Impact on Tourism
While the new fee adds to the cost of visiting Aruba, the island’s near-perfect weather, luxurious hotels, and stunning beaches continue to make it a highly desirable destination. The fee is expected to contribute significantly to the island’s sustainability and infrastructure, ultimately benefiting both residents and visitors.
Final Thoughts
Aruba’s introduction of the Sustainability Fee reflects a broader trend among tourist destinations to balance economic benefits with sustainability efforts. By funding essential infrastructure projects, Aruba aims to preserve its natural beauty and appeal for future generations. Travelers should plan for this additional cost but can look forward to an enhanced and more Sustainable Travel experience.
