Radisson or Renaissance

[jamaicamom]

I have made reservations for my first trip to Aruba. It was a package deal at the Renaissance for $1100. It includes everything, a manacure, pedicure a couple of drinks at the Martini place and a trip on some bus that starts with a K. But, after reading reviews of the flies and not having a beach to walk around on,but the private island and use of all of their toys sounds great- I am still hesitant. I looked up the Radisson and liked what I saw.The beach...They had 3 nites for 234 a nite and 150 food credit. I would like to try a few of the restaurants everyone raves about so this seems okay too. Please this is all so confusing. I never had this much trouble picking a place in Jamaica.....Thanks Ann

[cindyo]

Please this is all so confusing. I never had this much trouble picking a place in Jamaica.....Thanks Ann

Ann, I had to laugh, this is aruba, right??? LOL...
Anyway, we have been going to aruba for 12 yrs, own at the Renaissance Suites. We love the privacy of the private island, the boat ride, the local restaurants, the downtown area to shop...couldn't be happier. There is no getting up early to get a prime space on the beach, the private island has lots to do; tennis, eat, float, drink, work out....no lines, plenty of seats, great waiters on the island....Heaven to us. If you have any more questions feel free to ask...Bringing kids?? How long ya staying??

[jamaicamom]

Cindyo, LOL. I did say vacation, right. No kids!!! yes I have decided the Ren is the way to go. No headaches, no worries. We leave 10/23 and go back 10/26. Short I know, but only had that much time. Scoping it out for Feb vacation!
Thanks for all the posts. Going to start packing.

[jamaicamom]

Did have another question...We are only doing carry on. Is it the same at the airport have to drop your luggage off or just walk over and have them scan it? SIlly but never have been there. We did the same for Jamaica. Worked out great. 3 Hours before you leave-ugh. We depart at 4:45 pm am thinking of trying to stay at hotel until 2 pm... Crazy or what!

[Arubalisa]

Originally Posted by jamaicamom

Did have another question...We are only doing carry on. Is it the same at the airport have to drop your luggage off or just walk over and have them scan it? SIlly but never have been there. We did the same for Jamaica. Worked out great. 3 Hours before you leave-ugh. We depart at 4:45 pm am thinking of trying to stay at hotel until 2 pm... Crazy or what!

If you are departing on a weekend, 3 hours prior to your flight is a good rule to follow. Otherwise, 2 hours will be a safety net. When you depart Aruba you will also be going through US Immigrations and US Customs. There is a very thorough description of the process at http://www.orrin.org/aruba/. Scroll down to the bottom of the page to "airport notes".

As to your carry-on, when departing Aruba, you will as noted in the link above, be going through " x-ray security (possible long queue)" as soon as you enter the main building following airline check-in. You will later pass through " a second x-ray security (possible long queue)" after leaving US Immigrations & Customs.

When you arrive deplane in the US, you will not be going through US Customs or Immigration.

For a short trip, I think the Renaissance is a good choice for scoping out the island. Do though take a ride down to Eagle and Palm Beaches to see if those beaches, or any of their resorts compare to the Ren and it's private island.

[wnysnow]

Jamaica Mom,
We will be vacationing at the Renaissance from October 17-31st. If you need any help, let me know.

We LOVE Aruba,
Snow

[jamaicamom]

Wow, great. After reading that last post on the Ren Marina I was worried. I guess some people are never happy. It was the same when we went to Beaches Negril.Read the reviews and some people were miserable. Got there and it was fantastic. So, I will just have to see for myself! LOL. I'm too excited to sleep!

[wnysnow]

Jamaica Mom, try to book at the Renaissance Aruba Ocean Suites, much nicer and roomier than the Marina Towers. You might get lucky by posting a Suite wanted ad on the timeshare portion of this message board. Renting from an owner can be very cost effective.

Good luck,
Snow***

[cpjones]

Simple...(yeah right!) Both are great. I'm a huge Radisson fan, but the big difference is: do you wanna be right on the beach with a beautiful pool and tropical feeling grounds available or do you wanna be closer to the downtown shopping areas in a downtown setting? Both have lots of great restaurants within walking distance and both are quality hotels. Whatever you choose will be the right choice and you'll love your trip and you'll love Aruba!

[cindyo]

Jamaica, definately try to get to the suites instead....as wnysnow suggests....she definately knows the difference. cindy