Two radically different options for my next visit - NOVEMBER!

[ideastowords]

I am planning on returning to Aruba in November! I am torn between two options, so I thought I would turn to the lovely people on this board to share their thoughts.

There are three key reasons motivating my return:

1. Airline miles! I got a AA Citicard that will give me more than enough bonus miles to cover my trip to Aruba. So, basically, free flight.
2. I love animals and am sad I couldn't visit the Donkey Sanctuary.
3. I just love the island.

But where to stay!?! You see, the sensible woman in me thinks I should stay at this place: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/1419699...i9mUxmCpy%2BcE

It includes breakfast, car rental and it's a mile away from the Donkey Sanctuary. It has dozens of five-star reviews.

My only concern is the driving. However, I drove in Eleuthera, Bahamas - but the traffic isn't like Aruba's. I love the idea of being so close the sanctuary. What I'm not in love with is having to drive everywhere . And not being able to just walk to a beach and walk to the grocery store, like the situation on Eagle Beach.

But this is just such an incredible value! And the reviews are just glowing. And I do love a more isolated and intimate environment. And donkeys.

My other option is this: https://prestigevacationsaruba.com/p...-condo-e323-2/ A lot more money. Gulp. But, then, my time is more valuable. And I adore beautiful and lovely places to stay. And I love being right across the way from a beach and a nice big pool. But I am far away from the donkeys . My stay here would be far less of a gamble and probably a lot more relaxing for my type of personality (worrier and anxious). I know I would love it. However, I may be missing out on a truly special experience being able to see donkeys every day, as opposed to once or twice during my vacation, and experiencing more of the authentic Aruba.

I would greatly appreciate your insight and thoughts!!! Thank you in advance!

[Andrea J.]

I think that I would choose door #2
your words...........My stay here would be far less of a gamble and probably a lot more relaxing for my type of personality (worrier and anxious). I know I would love it.

rent a car and visit the donkeys a few times.

and visit Phillips Animal Garden too!!

When in November?

[ideastowords]

I think that I would choose door #2
your words...........My stay here would be far less of a gamble and probably a lot more relaxing for my type of personality (worrier and anxious). I know I would love it.

rent a car and visit the donkeys a few times.

and visit Phillips Animal Garden too!!

When in November?

I was thinking November 27 or 28th though December 5. I have the time off work Thank you for sorting that out for me! I am also chewing on La Cabana as well, as that would be a bit cheaper.

[Andrea J.]

We r at LaCabana late nov thru dec 11

if you are on FB join the 2 LaCabana groups.
one of them is LaCabana resort and casino. And the other is LaCabana resort rental.

I was thinking November 27 or 28th though December 5. I have the time off work Thank you for sorting that out for me! I am also chewing on La Cabana as well, as that would be a bit cheaper.

[Pegmeister]

I also would probably opt for option 2. How far is the sanctuary from that option? We have yet to make it to the donkey sanctuary but I hear they like carrots! November is a nice time to be in Aruba. We’re usually there at that time as well.

[WaltVB]

I'd also pick option #2 and as Andrea says rent a car and head out to the donkey sanctuary and Phillip's a couple of times. Driving on Aruba isn't bad at all, just remember the traffic circle rules and no right turn on red and you'll be fine. There are also forum members that own condos and rent them out. You might want to contact them and see about availability. Robin and schexc come to mind...

[B Likes To Travel]

#2 for sure! I love Oceania.

[robin]

I own a 2 bedroom at Oceania and love being here. It is gated and has 24 hour security. It is easy walking distance to many restaurants, has fantastic views of the beach/ocean. It is generally quiet. Three large pools with at least two of them with zero entry plus a kiddie pool. Tennis, racketball, squash and basketball. Two different fitness rooms(close at 8 pm). The bathrooms near the pool has saunas in them. Beautifully landscaped. You can watch the cruise ships come in. It is a 20 minute drive to see the donkeys. I love being here.

[crimms]

Remember they moved the donkey sanctuary to a new location. Getting off track, this year we visited the Butterfly Farm and were amazed how many butterflies are flying around you. Its worth a short visit. We second Phillips animal garden and the Ostrich Farm is cool too. Good luck. The pros will here will help with where to stay.
Have fun,
Sean and Susan

[ideastowords]

Hi Andrea,

Looks like LaCabana is completely sold out for those dates. However, I found another really cute place at LeVent for a good value. So I might be going with that because I can stay an extra day AND it will be at least $500 cheaper than the Oceania condo. Did I mention I am grateful for your excellent advice and tips?