June 1st, 2005 Aruba’s native language of “Papiamento,” which literally translates into English as “speaking,” can appear deceptively simple, but within its history lays a complex web of circumstances which helps define the island and its inhabitants. Spoken only in the ABC islands, Papiamento is a Creole language, which as recently as March 19, 2003 was finally recognized as an official language in Aruba alongside Dutch.
Today seafood still reigns as a main staple of the Aruban diet. Whether grilled, broiled, baked or fried, the national dish of Aruba could be thought of as none other than the “catch of the day” – mainly barracuda, grouper and snapper which are found in the waters around Aruba year-round. Other favorites on Aruba’s menu include a variety of stews, whether cabrito (goat), beef or comcomber (vegetable). Stews, as well as soups such as yambo (okra) are often prepared as the main meal at midday.
With a recipe that is centuries old, a local Aruban liquor, “coecoei” was first made by Indian tribes. It has a distinctive red color, derived from one of its prime ingredients—the sap from the “kukwisa” or agave plant, which is mixed with rum and cane sugar. Coecoei is often used today in the creation of island cocktails, including the Aruba Sunset which also employs Ponche Crème, Aruba’s own potent eggnog mixture.
One of the most successfully locally-grown crops remains the aloe plant. Although not indigenous to the island, it has thrived on the island since its introduction at the turn of the 20th century. One hundred years ago, it was the island’s most profitable exports, and as important part of the island’s history holds a place of honor in Aruba’s national seal.
Aruban motifs are often also found on painted works at local markets, but also beautifully displayed in the island’s stamps series. The island’s most respected artists, such as Ludwig de L’Isle, Nigel Matthew and Stan Kuiperi, are often commissioned in the creation of stamp series marking local events, holidays and flora and fauna. The Post Office’s Philatelic Section not only sells the most recent editions of stamp series but also maintains past series of these miniature Aruban artworks.
