One Happy Island

Part of the ABC Islands, Aruba lies just off the coast of Venezuela. The beaches here are soft, powdery white sand and crystal-clear Caribbean waters. Aruba is known for sunny weather, constant trade winds, and the twisted divi-divi trees along the beachscape. The resort area along Palm Beach is especially pedestrian-friendly, with shops, restaurants, and casinos within easy strolling distance from your resort. This is one of those destinations where you are fine without an all-inclusive resort, since restaurants are so close and the food quality standards are very high.

A car rental isn’t necessary, and you can get around by either walking or taking a taxi. I recommend an island tour while visiting so that you can see the other, more rugged side of the island—wow, such a drastic difference from the calm, sandy side!

Aruba’s culture is a blend of Dutch and Caribbean, and the people are super friendly. You’ll want to get out and about beyond just your resort to experience all the island has to offer.

Snorkeling and scuba diving in Aruba are exceptional, with several choice dive spots including many sunken ships, like the 400-foot Antilla wreck, which is the largest wreck in the Caribbean. Windsurfing continues to be a popular sport, and lessons are available. Several casinos are in the popular tourist areas. For active travelers, ride a bicycle, ATV, and horse by land; or paddle board and kayak by sea. And for families, several resorts have Kids Club programs.

How to get there: Queen Beatrix International Airport, AUA. Flights connect through several major US hubs. A longer stay (5 nights or more) is recommended due to travel times.

Passports are required for all travelers. English is widely spoken. Weather is ideal year-round, and Aruba is fortunate in that it is not hurricane-prone. Value season occurs mid-April to early December.

Ideal for

• Couples
• Families
• Divers
• Small groups
• Beach lovers
• Destination weddings