With its crystal clear waters, radiant beaches and prevailing trade winds that maintain a near perfect year-round climate, Aruba is a vacation island with it all. Located just 18 miles off the coast of Venezuela, yes, the journey time by plane may be a little longer than most other Caribbean islands, but believe us, it's well worth it! Once you arrive you'll be charmed by the Dutch influences and wowed by the cactus-clad desert hillsides, world-class resorts and palm-fringed beachfronts. Aruba certainly is an island of contrasts.
You'll discover beautiful hidden beaches, windsurfers gliding across the waves, dazzling casino action, a championship golf course and irresistible shopping in the charming capital of Oranjestad. Add to this a wealth of attractions including the Natural Bridge, a pretty Dutch windmill, as well as the California Lighthouse, and you'll have to agree Aruba has all the ingredients for a perfect island escape! And let's not forget that you can rest safe in the knowledge that this tropical getaway is far south of the main hurricane zone.
Most hotels are located on the west of the island in the Palm Beach and Eagle Beach resort areas. If you're looking for accommodation advice, here are some top tips:
Top choice for honeymoons: Nestled on one of the world’s most incredible white-sand beaches, the romantic Bucuti Beach Resort is the perfect honeymoon retreat featuring elegant, spacious guestrooms, gourmet dining and exceptional personal service. Honeymooners receive a complimentary bottle of champagne, gift basket and special room decorations on their arrival day.
Great resort for families: At the newly remodeled Tamarijn Aruba, kids 5 – 12 years will have a fun-filled vacation with Papiamento lessons, face painting, movies, pool games, beach games and more. Plus children under 18 stay, eat and play free all-inclusive when sharing a room with two paying adults.
Best for value:The Holiday Inn SunSpree Resort & Casino is known for unbeatable value, but there's definitely no scrimping on the facilities! With a PADI dive center, water sports, zero-entry pool with two Jacuzzis, entertainment deck, great dining options, a children's activity program, the Excelsior Casino, a full-service Intermezzo Day Spa, and a shopping arcade the fun never stops!
Top pick for spa addicts: Pamper yourself at the Westin Aruba Resort's luxurious Intermezzo Spa. This 3,500 sq. ft. spa features a sauna, relaxation garden, thatched-roof cabana for open-air massages and two couples rooms which open onto a private area with a two-person spa tub.
One Cool Island – two cool promotions And if you're thinking of booking an Aruba vacation, don't miss out on two incredible offers:
One Cool Honeymoon - At participating hotels, honeymoon couples receive a bottle of champagne upon arrival, a souvenir gift, and a free night when returning for an anniversary visit (believe us, you're going to want to come back!). You'll also be eligible for discounts and deals on tons of activities, goods and services including Atlantis Submarine, Aruba Off-Road and Economy Car Rental.
One Cool Family -
Also at participating hotels kids 12 and under receive free accommodation when sharing a room with one or two full paying adults, plus a free breakfast daily, complimentary children's activities and a family gift. There will be plenty to keep the family busy as discounts and deals are available on family activities including sailing excursions, SeaWorld Explorer and Pelican Adventures.
To find out more about vacations to Aruba and these incredible offer click here.