# Aruba Travel Advisory Update: What Ottawa Travellers Need to Know Before Booking
Planning a sunny escape to Aruba from Ottawa this year? Canada’s government just updated its travel advisory for this Caribbean destination on April 27, 2026, and there are important changes every traveller should understand before departure. The good news: Aruba remains at **Level 1 — Take Normal Security Precautions**, the lowest risk category available.
## What Changed in the Latest Update
The most significant change is the removal of the COVID-19 travel health notice, reflecting the evolving global health landscape. This doesn’t mean health preparation is unnecessary—quite the opposite. With normal security precautions in place, Aruba remains a relatively safe destination, but smart travellers know that preparation makes all the difference between a dream vacation and a nightmare abroad.
## Safety Concerns to Keep on Your Radar
While Aruba’s risk level is reassuring, petty crime remains a reality. Pickpocketing, purse snatching, and theft from hotel rooms occur regularly, with incidents typically increasing during Carnival season from January through March. Beach visitors should never leave valuables unattended, and evening strolls should stick to populated, well-patrolled areas.
Water safety deserves special attention. Aruba’s coastal waters can be deceptively dangerous, and rescue services may not meet the standards Ottawa travellers are accustomed to at home. Before participating in scuba diving, jet skiing, or other water sports, verify that your travel insurance covers recreational activities and ensure all equipment meets safety standards.
Women travelling solo should be prepared for possible harassment or verbal abuse—an unfortunate reality that requires extra vigilance and situational awareness.
## Preparing for Your Aruba Adventure
Beyond reading advisories, proper health preparation is essential. Even though Aruba is relatively low-risk, protecting yourself against travel-related illnesses should be a priority. A pre-travel health consultation can identify which vaccinations you need based on your specific itinerary, medical history, and planned activities.
Standard recommendations for Caribbean travel often include ensuring routine vaccines are current, considering hepatitis A and typhoid protection, and discussing antimalarial medication if applicable. A travel health professional can also help you assemble a proper medical kit containing everything from motion sickness remedies to supplies for treating minor cuts—crucial when you’re dealing with water sports and unfamiliar environments.
Don’t wait until the last minute. Many vaccines require several weeks to become fully effective, and some need multiple doses spaced over time. For Ottawa travellers, starting your health preparation 6-8 weeks before departure ensures optimal protection.
## Get Expert Guidance Before You Go
An updated travel advisory is your signal to prepare properly, not just pack differently. Combining awareness of security risks with comprehensive health preparation gives you the confidence to fully enjoy everything Aruba offers.
Travelling to Aruba? Before you go, speak with one of our ISTM-certified travel health physicians – virtually, 7 days a week. A pre-travel consultation covers vaccines, medications, and destination-specific health risks. Book your virtual consultation at Orleans Travel Clinic Pharmacy.