Expert: Andy Mendyk - 4/18/2008

Question
QUESTION: Can you tell me sth about the costs for an appt incl the costs linked like water, electricity, phone/internet broadband, and for food and other fees. What would be a low budget calculation? Considering working in Aruba and having a longer stay.
Thanks!!

ANSWER: Guido..I can not quote figures at this time, but I do know that utilities, in general, are much higher then in the States. Water and electricity being the highest. Phone service from Setar is about the same/average. Working... do you have a sponsor employer and have the proper work permits?? Working in Aruba (for non-residents) is not like here in the States.
The last I checked, there was hardly anything open for casual labor. Most job openings were for hotel management, Chefs, and upper level executives. Good luck with your endeavors!

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for answering so far.
Is getting a work permit for Aruba, being a EU (German) citizen, due to political reasons easier, because Aruba and the Netherlands Antilles belong to the Dutch crown?
Could you give me only an approximate figure for an appartment?

Thanks in advance.
Maybe having a drink/coffee one day on my costs.

Kind regards
Guido

Answer
Hi Guido...Aruba closely watches for illegal immigrants, as thay want to make sure all employment opputunities go to Aruban/Dutch citizens first. Anyone other then that will require a work permit. If I am not mistaken, they are good for 6 month intervals.
Regarding the apartments, as with anywhere, the prices per month vary. I have heard of lows around 250.00 to around 500.00 and higher in U.S. Dollars. Remember also, the pay scales are not that great for most casual labor.
Currency is in Aruban Florin..1.78 Florin = 1 U.S. dollar at this time.