First time in Aruba Nov.8th for honeymoon! RIU?

[eyoung]

We will be staying at the Riu Palace. I have read about thefts at the Riu. Can anyone give me any info on this and info on the Riu. We can change hotels, but we have to do it now. Thanks!!

[Andrea J.]

i do not know what to say

back in january the fiollowing thread was started Beware of thieves


the riu is a lovely property
beautiful building(s)
magnificent section of beach and lovely pool(s) (albeit little shady areas at the pool.

thievery can happen anywhere
home, abroad etc...
always be careul and use your room safe and not leave stuff lying about.

email the riu and tell them of your concerns

when checking in mention your concerns to the manager.

if i were in your shoes, i think again about changing resorts. the riu is really quite breathtaking.

Originally Posted by eyoung

We will be staying at the Riu Palace. I have read about thefts at the Riu. Can anyone give me any info on this and info on the Riu. We can change hotels, but we have to do it now. Thanks!!

[BOSTOAUA]

Congratulations on getting married.
I’ve been to Aruba 4 times now but have been traveling for extensively work for about 8 years. Aruba has to be one of the safest places I have ever been. It’s unfortunate that a few jerks and a few bad reviews can give a great place a bad reputation. I believe, in most cases items that are stolen were taken because they were left out. Just keep in mind anywhere you go anywhere in the world if a thief has an opportunity to take they will.
When I’m hanging around the pool/beach I tend not to keep any valuables on me, at most I keep a few bucks on me for tips. As for cameras, cash and other valuables I keep locked in the safe unless I’m using them. One thing I have learned about the all inclusive resorts is you DO NOT have to bring a lot of cash with you on your trip. In the past when I needed some extra cash I use the ATM or have taken money out off a credit card, I would rather pay a transaction fee of a few dollars than risk a few hundred being stolen or lost. The less you bring the less there is to lose.
You guys are going to have a great time in Aruba. Don’t sweat the small stuff just take a few precautions and you’ll have a blast.

[Shnyda]

I agree with Bostoaua - petty thefts are going to happen anywhere. Use your brain - don't leave valuables lying around on a beach chair... makes a much to easy target. A brand new shiny camera or a wallet covered by a towel are just too attractive for some people not to steal.

[eyoung]

Thanks everyone for responding! This will be our first time in Aruba and wanted to get some more input on our resort, the RIU and activities that are a must! I don't want to miss a thing! Also, what are you thoughts about us renting a car? Do we really need one? Thanks again!!!

[Arubalisa]

Originally Posted by eyoung

Also, what are you thoughts about us renting a car?

It is really a personal preference.

http://www.aruba.com/forum/tags/car%20rental%20vs.%20bus.html

http://www.aruba.com/forum/tags/car%20rental%20vs.%20taxi.html

[Aruba Duece]

Originally Posted by eyoung

Thanks everyone for responding! This will be our first time in Aruba and wanted to get some more input on our resort, the RIU and activities that are a must! I don't want to miss a thing! Also, what are you thoughts about us renting a car? Do we really need one? Thanks again!!!

My wife and I stay at the Westin near the RIU and enjoy taking a short walk over to Bugaloo after a day at the beach around happy hour time. It's a bar on the end of the pier that is closest to the RIU. I think they have salsa dance lessons on Wednsday night but I'm not sure.

[mrem3200]

I second the thought on Bugaloo, we stay at the Radisson and Bugaloo is a great place to go for happy hour. Nice relaxing atmosphere and they have live music 4-5 nights a week.