Tourism Cleanliness & Operations: The Aruba Tourism Authority (A.T.A.) says cleanliness is a top driver of visitor satisfaction, backing it with more waste bins, sargassum removal support, and monitoring by the Tourism Security Patrol Aruba. Cruise Economy: A.T.A.’s 2025 cruise survey shows Aruba’s itinerary pull is rising (81% say Aruba influenced their booking) and cruise spending averaged about $197 per person, with beaches, safety, and hospitality scoring highest. Tourism Growth Update: June 2026 stayover numbers stayed strong: 143,343 visitors, 912,256 visitor nights, and a 6.4-night average stay; North America led (73.6%). Regional Market Push: A.T.A. is exploring new tourism markets and air access goals, including Switzerland and renewed Latin America focus, while keeping an eye on the Middle East as conditions stabilize. Venezuela Air Border: A.T.A. won’t confirm the reported Venezuela air border reopening, saying it’s outside its mandate, but it’s been running scenarios and expects any restart to be gradual. Trade & Food Supply: Aruba is looking to import more fresh fruit and vegetables from Peru, with talks highlighting demand for items like blueberries and grapes. San Nicolas & Refinery Debate: Local leaders continue weighing how the refinery could become a regional “upgrader” that boosts San Nicolas through cooperation and specialization. Transport Links: Aruba cancelled a ferry-study tender to Curaçao after bids exceeded the budget by over 20%, delaying next steps. Local Business Spotlight: The San Nicolas Food Truck Festival returns Aug. 1, aiming to draw thousands and support local vendors.