55GreenChevy

[55greenchevy]

Greetings all, we just got back from Aruba last night and were down there since 12/30. First off, if anyone has the interest and the opportunity to spend a New Years eve in Aruba, I highly recommend it. Words doesn't do it justice, but the whole island comes alive with fireworks and were in complete awe.....something I will never forget. That said, I want to let everyone know that we felt very comfortable during our entire trip.....the protocols in place and complied with by all businesses---mask wearing, distancing of tables, temp checks, sanitizers everywhere---demonstrated how serious and precautious businesses and locals are take things, but still allowing people to enjoy a "safe" vacation. As many have scribed on this thread, we are only on this ride once, so enjoy it while you can.

I will say we rented a nice 3 bedroom private villa with a pool for our 9 day trip (avoided any crowds associated with a resort or hotel), but did partake in excursions (Aruba Bob Snorkeling, UTV tour, Black Pearl Sunset Cruise), went to many beaches, went grocery shopping, went gift shopping and went out to eat often. Other than New Years eve night with the vast crowds, did we feel at negligent risk from others. We enjoyed our entire time there and have absolutely no reservations or regrets in coming here. As a matter of fact, we are coming back down, with two other couples in mid February, and are looking forward to our return.

At the end of the day, you MUST be prepared for the "possibility" of quarantining if you test positive for our return trip back home. That means preparing yourself of staying a min of 5 more days, notifying your employer of not being able to work (if not retired), extending pet care (if you have a pet at home), researching back up flight plans, extra cash needs, etc. If this presents a significant hang up or major consequences, then you should look at postponing things or taking out forms of trip insurance. Otherwise, turn off the news, relax and plan out your trip accordingly. Enjoy it while you can.
Peace!

[kimmy1956]

Can I ask you where you rented?

[WaltVB]

Sounds like you had a great time. Thanks so much for sharing!

[cpjones]

Thanks for the report and the insight! Great photos too!

[55greenchevy]

Kimmy1956, there are two villa/home rentals I highly recommend. I've stayed at six different ones on the Island, but these are the best so far with regards to meeting our requirements, location, and great communication from the owners & caretakers. 5 stars all the way. Just Google the following villa descriptions and they will pop up:

Villa Aramis Aruba - owners Shahab and Gurvinder Ravery
Villa Chuchubi Aruba - owners Paul & Sue Gibbs

They are also featured through VRBO and ABnB, but we booked them directly with the owners to save on fees.
Good luck!

[SusieLovesAruba]

Thanks for the trip report and info - photos are awesome! Sounds like you did have a great time and followed protocol - that's what we did back in September and it was so fun and relaxing - we were so happy we went. Looking forward to my April trip and will do the same while there. Happy you had a great time during such a crazy time in the world. Take care.

[sgt11946]

Thanks for your observations. You sure seemed to have a marvelous trip on our favorite Island. The photos are super! Thank you again.

[Aruba4ever]

Glad you had a great trip. Thanks for posting and the travel advice.

[bhoffdhoff]

I enjoyed your trip report. Thanks for sharing!

[ArubaAce]

I think you are spot on that the biggest factor or question we have to ask ourselves is, ?Can we quarantine for 5 days? At least it's only 5 days it used to be more. I think my employer would be ok as my new benefits for exempt employees is unlimited vacation days but to be reasonable. Thanks for sharing!