Aruba - Adventure Guide to Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao - page 65

Pass by the individual airlines' carry-on luggage checkpoint,
and stop, if asked, so that your bags may be searched for pro-
hibited items.

Place your checked luggage on another conveyor belt for trans-
fer to the airplane and proceed to your gate.

If you have questions about what you can bring home or the screening pro-
cedures, call US Customs and Border Protection ,

297-583-1316.
The Aruba airport is independent and sets its own security regulations,
even though it is staffed by US CBP agents. Simon Arends, director of
Queen Beatrix International Airport, insists on strict security measures,
and passengers departing from Aruba should be prepared to check various
items that are routinely allowed in carry-on bags in the US. The list of pro-
hibited objects has changed several times since the September 11 attacks,
so contact your airline or consult the sign posted in the departure terminal
for the latest information. For questions concerning prohibited merchan-
dise and duty limits, contact CBP, 297-588-7240. For clarification of lim-

its on plant and food items allowed into the US, contact CBP at 297-588-

7640.

TIP: The $34.55 international departure tax is hid-
den in most ticket prices, but check when you make
your purchase. If you do any island-hopping, you
may be charged a separate airport tax. At publica-
tion time, the tax from Aruba to Bonaire had been
lowered from $20 to $10, but the tax to Curaçao re-
mained at $20. There is an inter-island move to-
ward lower airport taxes to encourage travel for
both locals and tourists, so the rate may be less by
the time you visit.

Getting Around

Taxis
Most taxi drivers own their cabs, so they generally drive
safely and expect passengers to avoid damage to their vehi-
cle. They won't allow you to overstuff their trunk or sit on
their seats wearing wet clothes. Many drive vans that accom-
modate large groups and diving equipment. Arubans are typ-
ically happy people, and most taxi drivers have participated in the
government's Tourism Awareness Program, so you can expect a friendly
welcome when you step into their cab. Check fares before you accept taxi
services, and tip generously if you have a pleasant ride.