New Trip, New Year..

[SailAway]

Hi ya'll Aruba lovers. This is my first post here. I feel very fortunate to have found this forum. Hubby and I are traveling to Aruba the second week of Sept. This will be our sixth trip. (25th wedding anniversary). We used to live on the east coast, but now we live in Portland, Oregon and we STILL want to go back to Aruba. My question is, since we've been a few times (stayed at Marriott, Radisson and LaCabana) with our children and without. We've tried many different restaurants, seen all the local sites, tired out all the beaches, toured the Island, gone snorkeling in all areas offered (no interest in scuba), used red sail and Octapus tours, visited the grotto and shopped until we dropped. Anyone have a unique idea that many overlook in their visits?? I should point out that our ages are early 50's. DH is a large guy and not interested in ATV's due to weight restrictions. This trip is back to the Radisson again. I feel that the Marriott's beach is way too crowded with the timeshares to enjoy it there anymore. The Hyatt is nice, but we feel we don't need to stay there (most expensive) to use their restaurants, bars, casino. I was thinking of doing the Helicopter tour, but I myself am a little nervous flying. (putting it mildly lol). Please send along any new suggestions you may have. Thanks!

[cindyo]

Just a few of my thoughts on a to do list, that maybe you haven't done;
sunset cruise, tour of the balsashi plant, tour the desal plant, visit Renaissance island for 75.00, tour the aloe plant, go over to Curacao for the day....
I actually am laughing to myself because you could probably tell us what to see....LOL...
cindy

[SailAway]

Not true Cindy!! I have learned so much from this forum already. I never knew about "Bully" and now I have him booked. Although I've stayed in the 3 different towers at the Radisson, I didn't realize the different bathroom sizes. etc, etc. All your ideas sound good tho. Is the Renaissance Island the same as what used to be DePalm Island? We went to DePalm and felt stuck there the whole day. LOL It was fun for two hours though. I like the ideas of the tours. Thank you I'm excited about trying the new spa at the Radisson too. I've always done the one at the Marriott and last time was upset how much they tried to upsell their products right after being relaxed. I left with tension because they wouldn't stop. Oh well, live and learn. Thanks again Cindy!

[Arubalisa]

Sailaway, where did you see the subject of weight regarding ATV'S? Our last trip we did the ATV's and helicopter tour and I was asked my weight for the helicopter but not the ATV. Both were great tours, but if you are avoiding the ATV solely due to a weight issue I would contact an operator like Kini Kini to ask them directly about weight restrictions. FWIW, dd was petrified about the helicopter tour and she forgot it as soon as she sat in the front seat and was strapped in. Besides the fact it is worth the views.

If you are into museums:
The Archaeological Museum of Aruba
The Numismatic Museum of Aruba

[cindyo]

Hi, been away for a few days in toronto....Renniassance Island is a 2 beach private island that is only accesible to those who have registered at the hotel. For 75.oo you to can go over....worth it IMOP

[Dolores]

Cindy

Is it $75 a person and what do you get? Thanks, Dolores

[cindyo]

Dolores, The island is one of the most peaceful places on earth imop.
For 75 you get to be there, use of the tennis courts, boat ride to and from,mats, an alcohol drink, lunch...do I think its worth it....YES ! You can also arrange for a private massage in the private hut overlooking the ocean...Its a once in a lifetime...
I hope i remembered everything.