Help / Advice

[nich0le1]

So I'm sure there's a million posts like this, but I figured if I gave my specifics you guys would be able to help me better. I'm looking to go to Aruba in July with my boyfriend, it will be our one year anniversary. I'm in my mid 20's. We're looking to stay somewhere all inclusive, somewhat child free ( or as close as possible, we obviously want this to be a romantic trip ). A nice room would be great. I've done some research and so far Riu seems like the way to go for us, but many of you seem to be frequent visitors, and have more experience/knowledge and would be able to tell me if I'm missing something. The only negatives I've read on Riu seem to be the pool (which I don't plan on frequenting often since there's a beautiful beach to enjoy) , and reserving an umbrella on the beach, which is not life or death for us either. Any advice / suggestions? Thank you all!

[purpleangel]

Hi, there! I stayed at the Riu two years ago around the time you are going and didn't have a problem getting a palapa on the beach. The pool is not very shady, but I'm a beach person and the only time I was near the pool was when I went to the pool bar. There weren't a lot of kids. Hope that helps!

[Shnyda]

Originally Posted by nich0le1

So I'm sure there's a million posts like this, but I figured if I gave my specifics you guys would be able to help me better. I'm looking to go to Aruba in July with my boyfriend, it will be our one year anniversary. I'm in my mid 20's. We're looking to stay somewhere all inclusive, somewhat child free ( or as close as possible, we obviously want this to be a romantic trip ). A nice room would be great. I've done some research and so far Riu seems like the way to go for us, but many of you seem to be frequent visitors, and have more experience/knowledge and would be able to tell me if I'm missing something. The only negatives I've read on Riu seem to be the pool (which I don't plan on frequenting often since there's a beautiful beach to enjoy) , and reserving an umbrella on the beach, which is not life or death for us either. Any advice / suggestions? Thank you all!

Hey there -

Just my advice... Aruba is more fun if you don't go AI. AI is great for Islands where you don't always want to leave the resorts (Jamaica, Domincan Rep.) Aruba is so much fun for getting out there and exploring.

If you are set on the AI - the RIU is really nice looking and the Occidental is gorgeous.

Either way - make sure you get out there and enjoy all the Island has to offer.

[Divibound]

We enjoy the other end. It is so laid back The AI keeps you on the beach longer you are not traveling around wasting time to eat. I would agree that the food is different but I have only had one meal I did not like in 9 trips to Aruba, and then all I did was go around the corner and get a pizza. We purchased a time share Divi Village and still use the AI at the Divi and Tam it works for us. We also agree either way get out and see the island and meet the people.

[nich0le1]

Hey guys, thanks for all your input, keep it coming please! We definitely plan on leaving the resort and exploring, however I still feel all inclusive (even if in terms of drinks only) is worth it, we are young, like to kick back and have a drink (especially on vacation!), and do plan on spending a portion of the days on the beach, so that's the primary reason we're leaning toward ai. However , Bucuti seems really appealing , so I'm not really 100% sure wether or not it will be worth it to pay the same for a not ai, I know people don't go to Aruba to stay in their hotel room, but it will be "home" for a week, I would like to enjoy the room as well. Again, any advice is welcome! Thank you all again

[Andrea J.]

my 2 cents
go with the AI
and i recommend DIVI all inclusive.
the divi is the sister property to the Tamarijn.
more adults at DIVI, more kids at Tamarijn

way less hussle and bussle at the Divi than at the RIU
Riu is not laid back at all, Divi is laid back and relaxed.

Bucuti is magnificent, do they offer AI?

My guess is DIVI would be about 1/3 to 1/2 price of RIU and if Bucuti has all inclusive , then I bet that would be almost as pricey as RIU.

wherever you choose, it will be spectacular.

Originally Posted by nich0le1

Hey guys, thanks for all your input, keep it coming please! We definitely plan on leaving the resort and exploring, however I still feel all inclusive (even if in terms of drinks only) is worth it, we are young, like to kick back and have a drink (especially on vacation!), and do plan on spending a portion of the days on the beach, so that's the primary reason we're leaning toward ai. However , Bucuti seems really appealing , so I'm not really 100% sure wether or not it will be worth it to pay the same for a not ai, I know people don't go to Aruba to stay in their hotel room, but it will be "home" for a week, I would like to enjoy the room as well. Again, any advice is welcome! Thank you all again

[Arubalisa]

After your explanation of "why" all inclusive, it sounds as if it would be your best option.

The Riu is a four star class resort and the most expensive. If you were looking to save some money to stay some extra nights or plan more excursions or dinners "off property", then the Divi, a three star resort, is your best bet. No matter where you chose to stay you are getting what you pay for.

[Love Aruba]

We stay at the Occidental AI. The food there is great IMO. This year we are going to explore the island more, but I love the AI. For me it is worth it for the drinks. LOL LOL No really the food is great, people are great--all in all it is a great place to stay. At least that is how we feel. Where ever you choose, the main thing is that you will be in Aruba and that is the BEST part! Have a wonderful time.
We can't wait to get back!
Pat