It does not take a wizard with words to realise that Aruba’s capital, Oranjestad, is so-named because it is in some way connected to the colour orange. Disembarking from the nearby port or airport, it is difficult for any visitor to the town not to be dazzled by the row of orange facades that brightly array the architecture. Of course, the colour indicates Aruba’s historical ties with The Netherlands: although seceded from The Netherlands in 1986, its head of state is still the Dutch ruling monarch.

Arubans know that they live on an island with the best that Caribbean sea and sand has to offer. Progressing on from Oranjestad, it is not just the main town that is colourful. The Chapel of Alto Vista is a vivid yellow. The sea is populated by creatures of all colours: parrotfish splashed in dazzling teal and gold are a popular sight in Aruba’s waters. Indeed, Aruba’s waters are popular full-stop: there is something for everyone, with certain beaches regarded best for activities such as snorkelling, surfing, windsurfing, diving and, even, lounging.

But Aruba does not just offer the option of beaches. Oranjestad has some of the best duty-free shops in the Caribbean. There are flamingos to spot in the national park, desert flora to see, caves with ancient drawings to explore and natural phenomena to gawp at.

The trademark windswept divi-divi trees in the Cunucu look like they are leaning back and relaxing, staring up at Aruba’s light blue skies, rather than being blown into that position by northeasterly trade winds. It is not difficult to lean back and take it easy on an island such as Aruba. Its way of life is just the tonic for any frazzled visitor: like the aloe vera gel whose origin of plant is everywhere on the island, there is something here to soothe anyone’s daily stresses and abrasions.

193 sq km (74.5 sq miles).

100,500 (UN estimate 2006).

520 per sq km.

Oranjestad. Population: 30,000 (UN estimate 2005).

Dependency of the Netherlands. In 1986 Aruba separated from the rest of the Netherlands Antilles.

The official language is Dutch. English and Spanish are also spoken. The islanders also speak Papiamento, which is a combination of Dutch, Spanish, Portuguese, English and Indian languages.

80% of the population are Roman Catholic. There are also Protestant, Hindu, Muslim, Confucian and Jewish communities present.

GMT - 4.

Much of the social activity takes place in hotels where the atmosphere will be informal, often American in feel. The islanders do not wear shorts in town though it is acceptable for visitors to do so. Bathing suits are strictly for beach or poolside. In the evenings people tend to dress up, especially when visiting the casinos. Jackets are not required for men, except for official government functions.

110 volts AC, 60Hz.

Prime Minister Nelson Oduber since 2001.

Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands, represented locally by Governor-General Fredis Refunjol since 2004.