My husband and I are returning to Aruba for the third time only this time with an 18 month old. Are there any suggestions for restauants and activities to interest us and her? Any comments are appreciated.Were at the Costa Linds, any programs there that anyone knows of?

First of all I have to say I admire anybody who has the patience to take an 18 month old on a long flight and then spend a week chasing them around trying to keep them entertained and happy on Aruba in that heat. Anyway, the little one is probably old enough to enjoy a visit to the Butterfly Farm up by the Wyndham, it's only $10.00 and once you pay you can go back as often as you like during the week. Mornings are best as that's when the butterflies are most active and the heat hasn't become oppressive. Also, out past the airport, in the opposite direction of town is a place called Kibaima Miniature Village. Never been there and don't know anyone who has but from photos I've seen on some Aruba website or other it looks cute.
Most of all, your toddler will probably just enjoy playing on the beach with a bucket & shovel and letting the waves "chase" his/her feet and the kiddie pool if CL has one. Their website will probably mention it if they have any programs for little ones. Buccaneer is a nice place to take kids for dinner as there are fish tanks to keep them fascinated. You've chosen a lovely resort, enjoy your trip.

Linda,

Thanks for your response and the advice. I'm definately going to check out the miniature village you mentioned. And I'll be chasing my daughter for two weeks. LOL My Dad is coming along also to help out and enjoy chasing her. Thanks again.

Joann

2 things to remember:

1. Please put sunscreen on your child. The sun in Aruna is dangerous for children. Use SPF 50 of higher.

2. Please be mindful that there are many adults there who want to relax. If you are on the beach or near the pool and your child is screaming, please do something to quiet them.

Have fun!!

Am going to try to find that website that has the photos of the miniature village. There are sooo many Aruba websites but if I have any luck I'll post it.

Found many sites mentioning it, where it is, what it is, how to get there, etc. but not the one with the collection of photos. If it is as stated, it sounds like a fun place for little ones, but then again you might drive all the way there and find it's been overstated and wasn't worth the drive.
Wish someone who's been there would say how it is since so many folks ask about what there is for kids on the island.

hi the minature village is very rundown , must have been cute a couple of years ago, i just went in august, my two kids liked it age 7 and 9, i mean it was only 6 dollars for adults and three for children, but if you dont rent a car it is not worth a long cab ride, i agree the buccaneer is a good place to take a child!! try igauna joes in town , food was good and not at all stuffy or fancy!!if you have any other questions or concern feel free to email me.

Thanks Lou, I had a feeling that might be the case since nobody ever mentions it as a draw for kids. Many Aruba websites describe it as having a small zoo, animated characters, and a playground in addition to the miniature version of a typical Aruban village. Too bad they don't have something like that where it's more accessible to visitors looking for a few hours diversion for their little kids, perhaps then it be would well visited and money made to keep it well maintained, a nice escape for a few hours for the little ones who've had their fill of the beach for the day.

I am booking a trip with my two children, son 10 and daughter 4.
I would like to know if it is wise to do an all inclusive at the allegro resort. Am I choosing correctly? Please adivse. Thank you for your imput, it is greatly appreciated.

You don't need all-inclusive because you are bringing the children. Several restaurants have kid's menus and if they don't they will make a half portion for the child or even prepare something not on the menu. Our kids don't like buffets and that is basically what most of your meals will be if you go AI. Perhaps you can get a hotel with a breakfast package because the kids don't seem to mind that. When you are ready post again and there will be lots of us with advice as to where to take the kids to eat.