We just returned from another glorious week at our home away from home. First and foremost let me say to those who religiously check and fret over the weather channel reports that they could not have been more off for the week of November 19-26. Prior to our departure, the forecasts showed showers every day. To the contrary, the weather was typical Aruba... gorgeous.
We flew direct from Chicago to Aruba on ATA. There were eleven of us, including six children, and it was seemless. The weather on Sunday brought the only two hours of rain that we saw for the week. The kids were undaunted and played in the pool the entire time as the adults enjoyed a came of cards and a few cocktails on the patio. Even with the liquid sunshine, fun was had by all. Sunday evening we left the kids with the babysitter that we had brought along (highly recommended and worth every last dime) and were off to Madam Janettes. I had made the reservations on line and had requested a nice table in the courtyard. Our table, food, and service were absolultely perfect. Monday, the girls enjoyed a day in the sun and the guys were off to the Links for a round of golf. This is arguably the best golf course on the island. The guys enjoyed it so much that they returned three times during the week. Tuesday we took the jeeps to the uninhabited side of the island. The kids loved it. They climbed on rocks, petted donkeys, and added rocks to the wishing piles. Then we were off to baby beach. The snorkling was amazing. On Wednesday, the guys headed back to the golf course, and the girls went on a snorkling booze cruise through Robertos. It is in my opinion the best deal on the island. For thirty five dollars, we had three hours of terrific fun, endless rum punch, and lunch. In the afternoon we took a trip to our favority jewelers, Sean and Pauls. A few Balashis later and my best friend and I were "surprised" by our husbands' romantic sides and received a few bling blings to remind us of our great trip. Thursday was Thanksgiving. We had a total of over 50 family and friends staying at the Dutch Village and participated in our yearly Thanksiging Dinner. There is nothing better than to celebrate the holiday with those you love on the island that we love. Friday we took the kids snorkling and then to dinner at El Gauchos. As usual, it was fabulous. Saturday morning, I took my six year old son parasailing. We went up tandum and it was such an amazing thing to share with him, he loved it. We returned home (again with a perfect flight on ATA) Saturday evening. While we are sad to be back to the grey midwest weather, I think back to last week and smile. This was my 13th trip to the island, and every time I love it a little bit more. Thank you to the loving people of Aruba, who always go out of their way to make us feel at home.

Loved your trip report - It made me feel like we were there. You also gave us plenty of ideas on how to enjoy ourselves. We are really looking forward to our trip. We leave on Dec 17 and will return on Jan 5.

Great post! Your kids are fortunate to be included in all you wrote about.
Children are being introduced to Aruba more and more every year where as in the distant past 25 yrs ago or more Aruba was not nearly as popular as it is now.
Kids back then thought they were getting a fabulous vacation going to the beach and walking the boardwalk and a couple of rides, etc.

Our only consulation now is taking the grand kids and their parents with us for a week every year.
We have tried pretty much everything you wrote about and as I said your children are fortunate to be a part of Aruba already in the first generation.
I can read very well between the lines that you will be a great grandmother as well as you are a great hands on Mother.
Keep them close and beside all the applied disciplines that are needed in child rearing my #1 suggestion is the same one my Father instilled in me. Get them all the education you can, trade schools and especially a college. No particular learned skills or college education, will get them "lost in the sauce" as the saying goes. Our grandkids also love a dinner at the Buccanner with the 5000 gallon fish tank in the back seating area. Big fish, small fish, turtles and more and the food is good. Worth the trip! All the best to you and your family. cal

Loved reading your trip description! We are going to Aruba 1/5-1/13, group of 13, family trip. Staying at Holiday Inn. Did you rent cars? We are thinking we need 3 cars while there. Would love any suggestions. We are in our 50's, most of group is in mid-20's-early 30's, and love outdoor water/beach activities. Restaurant suggestions welcome, will have new baby and toddler with us too. Would love to hear from you!
Thanks,
Carol
(we're from Boston/Boulder, CO/San Francisco)

Hi Carol-

We did rent jeeps. The kids absolutely loved them. We went through American Car Rental. We booked online and were able to pick the jeeps up at the airport. They had all of our information in advance so it was very easy in terms of pick-up and drop off. Our favorite restaurants on the island are Madame Janettes and El Gaucho. While we did not take the kids this year (they ate in the condo with the sitter) both are kid friendly. Enjoy your trip!

Coni