My new favorite island in the Caribbean….ARUBA!
Our group of twelve decided to go to Aruba because no one had traveled there before so the experience would be new for everyone. We were mainly celebrating anniversaries and 40th birthdays – but also wanted a good excuse to escape the cold. Aruba is a destination that you could visit more than once and not get sick of it. There’s a lot to do, the people are friendly, you can drink water out of the tap (distilled in the world’s second largest saltwater desalination plant), and most importantly, the island is safe! Did I mention the beaches…softest white sand, turquoise blue ocean water for days, combined with a constant breeze it is simply heaven. I can’t wait for my next visit to the ‘one happy island’.
Things we did that I would recommend doing if you are planning a vacation there.
Riu Palace Antillas – the only true adults-only resort on the island. The rooms do need updating, but the pool, access to the beach, dining options, and the fact that it was adults-only, etc. made up for it. They are, however, planning to have the resort closed all of 2021 so they can renovate. The Riu Palace next door is family-friendly and a beautiful resort as well. It even looks like a Palace! When you book either resort you are able to dine and visit the other one, which is a nice bonus! If you’re planning a trip to Aruba I’d recommend staying near Palm Beach, the high-rise area. There’s plenty to do and venture off of the resort; endless restaurants, casinos, bars, and shopping. The area also makes it convenient to stroll along the beach, check out all the other resorts, and eat or drink at a variety of restaurants right by the water.
Around Aruba UTV Tour – by far the best tour we did while on the island. If you like off-roading this is the activity for you. I wasn’t sure if my husband would like it, but he LOVED IT! We first visited a zoo (which I thought was going to be underwhelming, but it wasn’t bad). They keep it clean and if you’re going with kids they will think it’s the coolest place because they get to pet some of the animals or get really close to them. We then went on to visit Alto Vista Chapel and Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins. During the tour we were able to see a lot more of the island and it gives some of the best scenery with the ocean nearby. Our final destination was through Arikok National Park and we took a quick swim in Aruba’s Natural Pool, ‘Conchi’.
Snorkel/Scuba tour – Most of the group wanted to snorkel while we were there and a few others wanted to scuba dive. We wanted to stay together and happened to find a company that could fit our large group on one boat. I would personally recommend doing these activities separately because it’s tough to accommodate both where it’s a good experience for all. Just comes down to what your group wants to do. We went to a location that was ideal for scuba divers, but for the snorkelers there weren’t a lot of fish to see. I did find a different tour for snorkelers that looks enjoyable; De Palm snorkel tour. With this tour you can visit the famous Antilla shipwreck while enjoying a few cocktails along the way.
Octopus Happy Hour Sunset Cruise – No one wants a trip to come to an end, but this was one way to do it. A beautiful Aruban sunset cruise on a trimaran sailboat. You can also take in views of the high-rise hotels and beach homes from a distance. Light appetizers and drinks are included and the Octopus staff are extremely friendly. I love supporting local businesses when I can and this is a great way to do it. The owner will share with you his experience of moving his family all the way from the Netherlands to start this business in Aruba. Inspiring!
Places to eat + drink:
Lola Taqueria – Craft + Lola was my happy place. Outdoor dining, fresh mouth-watering tacos, and freshly squeezed margaritas. A great spot in the heart of Palm Beach area to sit, eat, and relax. The carnitas and baja fish tacos were my personal favorite. You also have to try the elote (grilled corn with queso fresco) and their guacamole clasico appetizer. Yum!
Bugaloe Beach Bar – located on a pier in Palm Beach it’s an awesome place to go day or night. One morning we had breakfast on the deck overlooking the water. Picturesque views and the perfect way to start your day. You really feel like you’re on vacation when you sit out there. It turned from a restaurant during the day to live music/dance party at night. Very fun spot you have to go at least once!
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