No Place Like Aruba

Aruba has a beauty all its own. White sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and friendly people make this an excellent vacation spot.

Activities abound in Aruba and there is something for everyone. Our memorable moments include watching the amazing sunsets, snorkeling, partying on the Kukookunuku, and dining at great restaurants.

Quick Tips:

Arriving at the airport is always interesting in a foreign country. Make sure you complete the top and bottom of the entry form. You will need both at immigration. Taxis are easily accessible when you exit the airport ( to Divi Village), as are rental cars. There are two excellent grocery stores called Ling and Sons and the Kong Hing. You can get anything you would get in the US, plus lots of neat things from Aruba and Holland. Prices are all in Florins, but US dollars are accepted. Stock up on snacks, soda and beer but don't worry about bottled water. It's safe to drink right out of the tap, and it actually tastes pretty good.

Best Way To Get Around:

We rented a 4x4 jeep from Hertz at the Divi. It was per day plus per day for insurance. We also used the bus, which was clean and convenient. Pay the driver when you board and tell him roundtrip. He will give you a transfer ticket for the return. The bus will take you to the main bus terminal in Orangestad. To return, go back to the bus terminal and look for the hotel area bus. Bus routes are posted on the sign next to the bus. We only took a taxi to and from the airport, each way. You can hire taxis to take you on a tour of the island for about per hour. Be warned, when you are outside of the main areas, most of the roads are not paved. However, they are passable by most vehicles if you are careful. The downside is that there are virtually no road signs identifying which road you are on. This is a problem in town when you are trying to find restaurants.

Our one bedroom at the Divi Village was clean and spacious. The living room had a fold out couch, extra linens and drawer space so that it could be used for a family of four, or four VERY close friends. I would not recommend the one bedroom for two couples. There was one "master" bath which had a whirlpool tub/shower and lots of drawer space for toiletries. There was no in-room hair-dryer. An additional 1/2 bath in the main living area is convenient. The kitchen was well equipped for four people and had new appliances including a microwave, coffee maker, blender and toaster. Towels, both bath and beach, are changed daily, but full maid service is an additional fee of $60. A spacious balcony with table, chairs and chaise lounge was a nice place to enjoy early morning coffee or late afternoon nap.

There are two pools, but only one whirlpool tub, which seemed inadequate for such a large resort. Currently, construction of a golf course and additional units is ongoing. It was somewhat loud during the day, and many units did have views of the construction. This did not hamper our enjoyment of the unit.

The existing buildings have 3-5 stories, but only one building has an elevator. Definitely request handicapped facilites if you need them. Vending machines and laundry ($2/load) are on site.

In a word, it's crazy. When you board the bus, you are given maracas to shake along with the music. This seems silly at first, but after several drinks, you can't imagine not joining in.

The bus picks you up at your hotel and proceeds to pick up guests until all are on board. Then, you head to the California Lighthouse for a sunset toast and orientation to the evening.

After sunset, the bus heads on to dinner at a local house. The dinner isn't special, but you get one free drink and a beautiful house tour. Souvenirs are available (so you don't forget later!). Then, it's on to the bars.

The bus stops at three local bars throughout the rest of the evening. The first drink is included and there is lots of dancing. One bar, called "U Wanna Beer?", encourages the ladies to dance on the bar.

The best part about the trip was the diverse groups of people. I am 35 and thought we would be the oldest people on the bus. Was I ever wrong! One couple was celebrating their 55th wedding anniversary and they were partying as much as the 20-somethings.

Give it a try!

You will need a car or taxi to reach Baby Beach. The crystal clear water and soft sand make it good for families with small kids. Beach chaises and snorkeling equipment are available to rent.

The snorkeling is fantastic, but very crowded because it is so good for kids.

There are a few huts and some grape trees where you can grab some shade, but not much.

Baby Beach is listed in every travel site, but personally, I think it's overrated and crowded.

On the far end of the island near the California Lighthouse is Arashi Beach. This was my favorite one on the island.

Arashi has a long strip of beautiful white sand and turquise water. The surf is rougher here than at Baby Beach, but still good for kids since it is shallow. There is a large parking lot with trash cans and the beach is very clean. There is good snorkeling, especially for beginners.

Pelicans can be seen fishing off shore and iguanas and whiptail lizards provide entertainment if you walk off the beach.

This is an excellent place to watch a sunset too.

To me, this beach optimizes my idea of a Caribbean beach. Definitely worth the drive.