It's been really interesting reading everyone's viewpoints on the current conditions in Aruba. I was initially shocked and saddened by the news of all of the garbage and homeless people. We will be leaving for our first visit to the island in two weeks and I have to admit that this put me in a panic. It was not a description of the dream vacation I had been envisioning. I am so glad that so many people have posted their opinions on this topic because it has reminded me that perspective is sometimes at play in these situations although I don't doubt that things are different than they used to be. I think Carsten makes a great point that once a place becomes desirable by many it is bound to eventually become corrupted by a lot of things that are undesirable. I am thankful that these situations and specific places have been pointed out so that I will be aware of them on our trip. I'm sure there is still a lot of beauty to be found on the island and I have decided to make this my focus. My heart goes out to those of you who have had dreams of living on the island and have been crushed by the current happenings. Thank you everyone for your honest opinions (the good, the bad and the ugly!)