Oceania

[Randi]

I can't comment on the Oceania Condos except they really do look lovely. Yes, crossing the street is perhaps a downside but not a "biggie".
However... I did notice that you mentioned your "granddaughter's graduation" trip. How old is she? The reason for the ask is that despite all of the positives that you are hearing about Oceania, if you're a teenager or young adult, they probably would be much happier on Palm Beach. Quieter and less busy is not always so appealing to a young person
So if that is the case, perhaps go back to Palm Beach where there is a bit more action.

[nancyg56]

I can't comment on the Oceania Condos except they really do look lovely. Yes, crossing the street is perhaps a downside but not a "biggie".
However... I did notice that you mentioned your "granddaughter's graduation" trip. How old is she? The reason for the ask is that despite all of the positives that you are hearing about Oceania, if you're a teenager or young adult, they probably would be much happier on Palm Beach. Quieter and less busy is not always so appealing to a young person
So if that is the case, perhaps go back to Palm Beach where there is a bit more action.

Thi sis exactly my conundrum. She has never asked for anything and has requested we return to Aruba. For Kady, that means she wants to have a "replay" of her trip. She will remember what're we ate and will manage to find her same seat, that kind of thing. She is that kind of kid. Yesterday my husband and I went with her and my daughter on her first college visit, so right about now my DH will grant her any wish.....where did the time go? This child is looking at Marine biology in general, and right now specifically captive marine mammal behavior and rescue.

[Jacki]

So the beach & time spent with the grandparents may be more appealing than the nightlife. I love it!

[Randi]

Thi sis exactly my conundrum. She has never asked for anything and has requested we return to Aruba. For Kady, that means she wants to have a "replay" of her trip. She will remember what're we ate and will manage to find her same seat, that kind of thing. She is that kind of kid. Yesterday my husband and I went with her and my daughter on her first college visit, so right about now my DH will grant her any wish.....where did the time go? This child is looking at Marine biology in general, and right now specifically captive marine mammal behavior and rescue.

So your granddaughter is going into college so I believe she is going to be more interested in just being where things are a bit more lively. As a mother of kids who are in their 20's and we have been coming to Aruba since they were in grade school I think I can suggest with confidence that Palm Beach might be more of what you are looking for. When are kids got older we moved over to Palm Beach from Eagle Beach.
Firstly you are not going during the height of the winter months when things are extremely busy. While Palm Beach will still be busier than Eagle Beach it will be fine. Staying on Palm Beach you will literally walk out to the beach with lots of people (many who will be of her age group) and wander along the beach with places to eat, drink and hang out. Oceania is lovely and as lots of people have mentioned the units are well kept (I have to take that at face value as I have not stayed there) but it will not provide (imo) the experience that your granddaughter is looking for. The Oceania is a beautiful condo complex with some buildings facing the ocean with other buildings farther back. You have to cross the road to get to the beach so not as easy to run up for a forgotten item or bathroom for that matter. The beach is lovely but as stated quiet and a bit more isolated. No places around along the beach to drop by and eat, drink or visit. Restaurants are not truly walkable like at Palm Beach.
One of the things that we all enjoy at Palm Beach even when we taxi to dinner (and most of the good restaurants are not located near either areas) its fun to come back to the strip of Palm Beach and wander around at night. Its safe and fun to see all the people. Stop in for a coffee/ice cream or just shop at the outdoor stores that are open at night time. Casinos are in many of the hotels and in the evening as you walk along the strip it is fun and lively but not crazy. For a young person this is going to be appealing. During the day she can enjoy the beach and all that it offers while at night you can walk out your door enjoy the area.
For the most part, young adults are not looking for a quiet and peaceful vacation. For them peaceful means sitting on the beach but having activity around them.
That's my opinion.

[Jacki]

So awesome to have so many different opinions and experiences.

[nancyg56]

Oh my yes! She is a sweet girl and will want time with us. She hope to take scuba lessons and get certified before the trip, and has asked my husband to take classes with her. He used to scuba years ago but it has been so long he needs it all over again, and plans to go with her. He knows she is a strong swimmer, and he knows the level of supervision, however he will never let her in that water without him, so... the two of them will take classes together.

Oh my! What will happen when she goes to college!!!