Expert: Andy Mendyk - 7/21/2005

Question
 hi!  perhaps you can help with this one...i am considering the subject of moving to aruba, but know nothing about what life is like there. i am in the medical field in diagnostic medical imaging, but do not know if the demand for people in my field there is large or small. i found only one hospital on the internet, and would like to know if you happen to know anything of the subject. i am going to call over there and ask, but i expect to be told they are fully  staffed. so, do you happen to know anything of the demand for people in my field?  if not, would you happen to know anyone who would? thanks!!

Answer
Hi James! Yes, there is only one hospital on the island. (Odubar Hospital, in Oranjestadt). To move to Aruba, means you must have a work permit. They are very strict on that. To live there, you must own a home, must speak their language, ( papiamento, Spanish, Dutch) are the 3 most widely spoken. You must also have proof of financial responsibility. I would attempt to continue to find something in the medical field, where the rules are a bit more relaxed for someone in that field. Life in Aruba is slow paced, with very friendly people. Tourism is their main trade and income. If I recall, I think I heard that they were going to construct another hospital in the San Nicholas area. (southern part of the island, and their other main city) The possibilities seem good if not now, but for the future. I wish you luck in your endeavors! If there is anything else I can help you with, please do not hesitate to call on me again!!