More on rental cars

[arukluth]

Thank you for all the information to this point, however I still have more questions on the issue. So are you saying it is better to wait until you get there to rent a car? What about insurance? I read in a book that your current auto insurance will not cover a vehicle in Aruba. Any truth to this?

Thanks again for any assistance.

[Nancy K]

I recently researched this issue for our upcoming trip in October. If you pay for the entire rental on your credit card you may/may not be covered. You should check this out very carefully.
Discover Card--Will only insure for rentals in the US. They do not cover for theft, however.
Visa covers in the US as well as foreign countries if it is a "Signature" Visa They cover collision as well as theft. You must waive the insurance provided by the rental company. Not sure about MC or Amex.
We are renting with ABC Rental who we used in April. They pick you up at the airport in the car you will be renting and drive down the street to their office where the paperwork is completed. We found them to be reliable and the Rav4 we rented to be in excellent condition.

[Arubalisa]

http://www.aruba.com/forum/f38/car-rental-insurance-32505/ for more info on rental insurance. Best best is to check with your individual card company as well as home insurer.

As to reserving before hand? Personal preference. What will your option be if you arrive say at the airport and there are no cars available? Can you go a few days without the car if they are all booked? Are you willing to accept whichever vehicles are available from whichever company? If so, you will "probably" be fine, but there are no guarantees.

[arukluth]

This being my first trip to Aruba, what are the locals like? When I have been to Jamica and Mexico they are all over you. I understand they are making a living off visitors but at times I have felt scared. Are they like that in Aruba?

[danadog56]

Originally Posted by arukluth

This being my first trip to Aruba, what are the locals like? When I have been to Jamica and Mexico they are all over you. I understand they are making a living off visitors but at times I have felt scared. Are they like that in Aruba?

Aruluth,
The island folk are sweet, personable and willing to assist you if they can. They do not follow you around trying to make you buy things or "braid' your hair....You will be amazed at how pleasant everyone is.
As for the cars....I agree with ArubaLisa, at least I think she is trying to tell you to reserve a car before you get there. They will ask for a credit card to confirm the reservation, but if you decide not to use them you just have to email them and cancel without any penalties.
If you rent before you have the luxury of picking the vehicle you want instead of taking the left overs............
Anyway, enjoy yourself and post your experience when you get back so we can see how much you enjoyed yourself !!!!!!

[Arubalisa]

Originally Posted by danadog56

... at least I think she is trying to tell you to reserve a car before you get there.

We usually only rent a car for one day and do not normally reserve in advance. One September, one of the slowest months of the year, Hertz at the Radisson did not have any cars available for the date of our choice. We were a little flexible so it worked out ok.

This past June, again, not high season, dh had to call around to get a vehicle on the spur of the moment. Third choice was a charm to get the day we wanted, but I think you understand what I am saying. If you want to take your chances...

I am sure every poster on this forum who has already been to Aruba can tell you at least MORE than ONE story of how an Aruban has gone out of their way to assist them. Arubans are friendly and welcoming people. Show them the respect they deserve in that you are a guest in their country along with the same courtesy you give your neighbor at home and you will be rewarded double fold.