princess

Aruba is still wonderful, compared to most places in the world. Who can honestly say that they do not experience any changes of time, wherever they are from.. why would Aruba be different?

In my opinion Aruba is a result of tourists wanting to make the island "like home". If there was no demand, the size of Riu and Marriott would be smaller. To supply the needs of the visitors, Aruba has to think big, and think fast. This results in a period of time where Aruba has probably more foreign construction workers than ever, and a speed of development that society was not prepared for. Confusion always occurs with changes. Who asked for it? Popularity is perfect, and hard work. Aruba is in danger of losing its charm because potential home owners want to influence the natural pace of the place. Most of us go there to reduce stress, but what really happens now is that we implement our lifelong habbits of effiency to them, turning paradise into capitalism.. No wonder there are changes.

The locals are struggling with increased taxes, while their salaries remain the same. Does this sound familiar to anyone? Can we seriously blame anyone of the results of politics? Does this make Aruba less attractive? The beaches remain beautiful, what we do to them makes a difference. Who is still in favour of getting a nice holiday experience rather than turning a great Carribean getaway into a "we'd love to retire over there, but only if conditions meet our standards for utopia" kind of illusion.. Keep in your minds why you went there in the first place, and try to remember the value of keeping Aruba sacred, do not contribute to bad influence, beacause, after all, the mind is strong!

can't stay away

I only saw a few places boarded up near Kay's Jewelery, other than that, some places just don't open unless the cruise ships are docked. Garbage yes there is some, but as I drove around my own town today I noticed it. I did try to pick up cups and things when I saw them on the beach, but with the way the wind blows, it is easy to see how things can get away from people

danadog56

I think you have something there AuntieMame---I am going to start telling everyone that asks that Aruba is not the place to go,,,,this way those of us that are completely addicted won't have to share !!!

__________________
Michele,
Aruba- wishing I were there everyday !!!

My Countdown

Counting down to: Aruba-my favorite destination.....
180 days 1 hours 55 minutes

tds-ken

Ya know I really like that plan!!! Count me in as we start a total assault on the Island!!!

moomba melissa

My in laws recently purchased land and built a home in Aruba. My mother in law goes to Aruba every few months. The home has been comepleted since August 08 and they are thrilled. They have not stated that the island is any worse etc and they go enough to see any changes. They have been going to Aruba for over 20 years and still have time share at what used to be the Aruba Grand. My husband and I are leaving this Monday. I have been visiting Aruba for about 12 years and I have not noticed any changes. I will have to let you know after my trip. I do know it's more difficult to get a reservation at Madame Jeanettes!!

RONNIE

Well said Princesss. You make some excellant points and my husband and I agree with everything you said. thank you