Marketing in Aruba comes with a unique challenge — you’re speaking to two very different audiences: tourists and locals. Each group has different needs, interests, and behaviors, which means the way you market to them needs to be just as distinct.
Let’s break it down:
Marketing to Tourists in Aruba
Tourists come for a good time, not a long time. On average, Aruba sees over 1.1 million stay-over visitors annually — and most of them are here for 5 to 7 days. That means your window to grab their attention and get them through your doors is small.
What works best for tourists?
- High-visibility placements: Tourists aren’t watching local TV or browsing local social media accounts. But they are riding in taxis, walking through the hotel zones, and scrolling on their phones looking for things to do.
- Bold, visual, and fast messaging: They make decisions quickly. Use eye-catching visuals and clear calls to action: “10% off today!” or “Walk-ins welcome!”
- Proximity & convenience: Most tourists stay in or around Palm Beach, Eagle Beach, and Oranjestad. Highlight how close you are to major resorts or offer pickup options.
- TripAdvisor and Google Reviews: 93% of travelers worldwide say their booking decisions are influenced by online reviews. Ask satisfied tourists to leave a review to keep the momentum going.
- Taxi screen advertising (like ours at LYNX): Our in-taxi screens are placed right where tourists are — in the backseats of taxis heading to and from the airport, beaches, and hotels. It’s high-impact advertising served directly to tourists while they’re actively exploring Aruba.
Marketing to Locals in Aruba
Locals are your long-term customers. Aruba has a population of about 110,000 people. They aren’t just here for a week — they’re here year-round. That means marketing to them is all about building trust, loyalty, and community.
What works best for locals?
- Word of mouth: Arubans value recommendations from family and friends. It may be wise to offer referral incentives since word of mouth goes a long way here.
- Instagram & Facebook presence: Social media is huge in Aruba. If your brand shows up regularly on their feeds, you’ll stay top-of-mind. Use stories, reels, and promotions that feel personal and community-focused.
- WhatsApp promotions: Many local businesses are tapping into WhatsApp groups or broadcast lists to send exclusive offers and updates. It’s direct and super effective.
- Community involvement: Sponsor local events, schools, or sports teams. Supporting local causes boosts your visibility and reputation with residents.
- Special pricing or loyalty programs: Locals appreciate it when businesses acknowledge them. “Locals-only” pricing, punch cards, or VIP offers can go a long way.
Final Tip: Track What’s Working
Whether you’re targeting tourists or locals, always track your results. Use trackable promo and QR codes, ask customers how they found you, and monitor engagement on your ads. Data helps you refine what’s working and what’s not.
And if you’re looking to reach more tourists directly while they’re in Aruba, our in-taxi screens are one of the most effective ways to do it. We help your message get in front of thousands of tourists every week — right when they’re deciding where to eat, shop, or hang out.
Want to advertise with LYNX or need help targeting your audience better?
Advertising in Aruba has never been this easy—or this impactful. We help businesses get the visibility they deserve in Aruba.
[Contact us today] | [Learn more about LYNX Taxi Screen Advertising in Aruba]