Expert: Andy Mendyk - 8/4/2005

Question
Hi Andy,
My question is regarding the native Aruba people who are of Latin descent. Which Latin countries do they come from? Do they come from Hispanic or Spanish ancestry? Do they have any African ancestry? Why do they consider themselves to be Latin and what do they look like? Do they look like the Hispanic people that we are familiar with in the U.S.?

Answer
Michael... Arubans are a mix of German, Dutch and Arawak Indian. The Arawaks inhabited the island, but in the course of history, the Spanish, German influence became prominent. They are most likely considered "Latin" due the their proximity to other Latin-American countries and Islands. Mosy Arubans speak Dutch, Spanish, some German and the local tongue "papiamento" which I am told is a mixture of all the above. Regarding skin color..once again they range from dark to white. The Majority are dark. One thing I can say about all arubans, is their friendly attitudes and politness to tourists, and among themselves, which is the reason I frequently visit the Island. I will be there again in less then 2 weeks. If there is anything else I can help you with, please do not hesitate to call on me again!!