Papiamento is the most widely spoken language in Aruba, serving as a vital part of the island’s cultural identity. It is a creole language that blends elements from Portuguese, Spanish, Dutch, African languages, and Arawak, reflecting the diverse influences in the region’s history.
While Aruba is multilingual, with many people also speaking English, Spanish, and Dutch, Papiamento remains central to everyday communication, media, and education, distinguishing it as a unique and integral aspect of Aruban life. This is why it is really good to learn a few words before starting your project:
Everything is possible | Tur cos ta posibel |
Good Morning | Bon dia |
Good Afternoon | Bon tardi |
Good evening / night | Bon nochi |
Welcome | Bon Bini |
How are you? | Conta bay? |
I am fine | Mi ta bon |
Fine, thank you | Bon, danki |
Very good | Hopi bon |
Goodbye | Ayo |
See you later | Te aworo |
Have a good day | Pasa un bon dia |
What time is it? | Cuant’or tin |
Where do you live? | Unda bo ta biba |
I can speak Papiamento | Mi por papia Papiamento |
Happy Birthday | Masha pabien |
Me | Ami |
You | Abo |
How much | Cuanto |
I’m hungry | Mi tin hamber |