Expert: Andy Mendyk - 7/2/2006

Question
I am a concerned parent worried about teh drinking age in aruba...without my supervision, will my son of 16 years of age be able to drink, gamble, and/or get into dance/nightclubs in aruba in orangsted? Also, will hotel staff serve teens drinks as I have heard? Please be honest...meone need to tell me the truth! Thanks

Answer
Hi Jonathan... As much as I love Aruba, and being a dad myself, I have to tell you to keep a tight leash on your son. Laws are very relaxed there, and naturally, like any business, profit is profit. It will be very easy for your son to get "slipped" a drink. SOme casinos are somewhat strict as to age, but I myself fine a lot of teenagers inside gambling and drinking. To a dad, I feel good about being honest about this. Nightclubs are the worse, as they are filled with youngsters, and they tend to "blend" in. If you are doing an all-inclusive, it is much easier for them to serve minors, but in short, there always will be a good chance he can get it fairly easily. If there is anything else I can help you with, please do not hesitate to call on me again.