Aruba Tourism Authority Shares Results of the 'Local Sentiment Survey'

The first survey took place in 2018 during the celebration of Flag and Anthem Day, and the plan is to repeat it every two years. ATA did not survey in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In May 2022, with the assistance of various students from the University of Aruba, It implemented a broad method for collecting feedback using online and in-person surveys.

In March 2024, data was collected at Plaza Betico Croes during the Cultural Event, on Flag and Anthem Day at various community centers, including San Nicolas, Savaneta, Brazil, Santa Cruz, Piedra Plat, at Royal Aruba Aloe, and the Archaeological Museum. Various businesses encouraged their employees to participate, and students from the University of Aruba and E.P.I. The college also took part in this survey.

3,583 people participated in this survey, 1,053 online, and 1,530 were face-to-face. After checking for errors (e.g., incomplete surveys), the final number of valid responses was 2,592. Based on the local population of 107,566 (Central Bureau of Statistics 2023), we can conclude that the total correctly collected responses have a confidence level of 95% and a margin of error of 5%. The results reviewed by the MGM Source indicate that the number of 2,592 surveys has a confidence level of 99% and a margin of error of 2.5%, which surpasses the minimum required.

The results indicate that most survey participants recognize that tourism is a key industry and the engine of Aruba's economy. 68% of the survey participants expressed satisfaction with the tourism industry. Seventy-five percent of people who work directly in the hospitality industry say they are happy with it.

A.T.A. is taking proactive steps to redefine the tourism model through Responsible Tourism and Regenerative Tourism. These actions focus on ensuring Aruba progresses and positions itself as a leader in responsible and sustainable tourism practices for future generations.

In the Caribbean, Aruba remains a popular travel destination with great demand. Nevertheless, all agree that our destination is at a crossroads. It is essential to recognize a global shift in sentiment toward tourism. The excessive negative impact of tourism on host communities and the natural environment is a fact, and in Aruba, we are not immune to this global wave of sentiment.

Results 

On a scale of 1 to 5, 68% of the survey participants rated tourism between 4 (positive) and 5 (extremely positive). It reflects a favorable impact with an average of 3.9 points. On the other hand, among the 32% of participants who rated tourism extremely adverse to neutral, 19% chose to provide additional comments.