Just spent 8 great days in Aruba.

My Observations:

WEATHER: undescribable (Sunny 90 degrees, feels like 75)

HOTELS: Stayed in Hi Rise Area. RIU & HYATT are only 5 star. Marriott, Raddison, Occidential, Westin & Playa Linda all nice but a notch below. Holiday Inn just below them although the HI has the nicest stretch of beach and most convenient location. (Probably the best value of any resort in the Carribean). All are located on beautiful beach with turquoise water. All are located within walking distance to 60/70 plus restaurants.

FOOD: Everything from $7 Subway Footlong to $50pp Texas de Brazil. Tomato Charlie large Pizza $17.50, salad 8.50 and cheese steak $8.00 TGIF dinner for 7 (no alcohol) including appy's and dessert $ 150 total.

THINGS TO DO: Bus ride downtown for shopping ($2.30 r/t). Everything from flea market to Louis Vitton. Stop at Supermarket and pick up soda ($3 for 6pack) and snacks ($1.50 pringles). Mall across from Hi Rise has 50 stores and restaurants. Has a nice water/light show set to music every night at 730, 830 and 930pm. Also has live entertainment everynight dancers, bands and magicians. Watch the sunset at 7:30 on beach. Even teens were in awe.

AIRPORT: Easy in/EASIER Out Couldn't believe how easy to navigate through airport. US Customs at airport makes hassle free re-entry into states.

Hints: Water is drinkable and tastes great. Bring six pack and refill as needed. Bring "singles" ice tea and punch to add to water for kids. Sunblock, sunblock, sunblock. Watched alot of people fry. If you need anything anywhere ASK! The Arubians went out of their way to help. From the busdrivers to the towel boys to housekeepers to waiters. Everyone was friendly and helpful.

Final Words: For anyone who ever complained or had a negative experience in Aruba, look in the mirror. The island is a true gem. I traveled with a party of 7 including a 5yo, two teens and a 92 year old. Trust me, there is something to do for everyone.

Ditto, Ditto, Ditto. Thanks for all the positive thoughts and the weather report. I'll be there in two weeks. I live on the beach in New Jersey but always look forward to getting back to Aruba. There's no place like it.

thanks for the info. will be there sunday for a week. can't wait to get there .

I buy (on-line) Arizona DIET iced tea singles packs (10/box) which are good for 16 - 20 oz bottles. For use at HOME, I get Arizona DECAF Diet Iced Tea powder in little tubs that make about 2 liters of tea per tub.

Love your "final Words". And I've only been there twice. 3rd visit coming up Sept 20.

Thank you for the review.

Out of curiousity, for the future, how did the teens keep themselves occupied, especially at night?

Aruba Bound! ~ Hoosier Kitties ~ Our-Cruises ~ Blogging to Aruba
Back to paradise Trip #18
Christmas & New Years Aboard the Queen Mary 2

Great to hear you all had a wonderful vacation.

Thanks for the update. That is a very nice area to be in. Plenty to do for everyone. Thanks for all the details I am keeping some of those in mind for my next trip.

MikeM

Nice trip report.... you loved Aruba! I loved your 'look in the mirror' statement..... Thanks....

I am a Jersey girl leaving in SFO, but I have been to Aruba since 2001, and have been back 4 times since than back to back.

More helpful hints: Have cab driver wait at "Certified" supermarket on your way to resort from the airport, and get your essentials (milk, cereal, beer, liquor, etc.).

They also have this vanilla shake "stuff" in quart cartons for use in making your own "Mudslides" if this is something you like. Pack a small can of Hershey's syrup in your CHECK IN bag, buy a pint of vanilla ice cream at Certfied too, add your liquors, blend and you're good to go (the $9 mudslides add up at the pool).

If you have a full fridge at the Marriott (or other), buy some meat too, and cook it on the outdoor grill a couple of nights - they keep them immaculate. Another money saver.

Pack sunblock and inflatable rafts - both are very expensive on the island. Reapply often, especially with kids (toddlers should be encouraged to wear sun hats)

Pack children's Advil just in case the sun is too much. You'll be glad you did. For little ones, a dose 20 minutes before landing helps with the ear pressure.