Aruba: One Happy Island

Bon Bini, which is Papiamento for welcome, is how you will be greeted when you arrive in one of the most remarkable Caribbean destinations. The island boasts many beautiful postcard perfect beaches, diverse accommodations, and the famous Arikok National Park – just the beginning of a plethora of reasons why Aruba is destined to impress any traveler.

Papiamento, solely spoken in the Dutch Caribbean and the language most commonly spoken on the island, is comprised of Dutch, Spanish, English, French, and Portuguese. Over 90 different ethnicities are represented in Aruba and nearly every citizen is able to speak English and Spanish, in addition to Dutch and Papiamento, which is the official language. Aruba is conveniently situated outside the hurricane belt and close to the equator, making sunshine a staple backdrop for your next tropical vacation. With temperatures ranging between 27 to 31°C all year round, there’s absolutely no way to avoid returning home looking sun-kissed and feeling totally refreshed.

The island is a tiny gem, roughly twice the size of Manhattan, allowing you to hop from daytime activities to your hotel home base and back out again to enjoy the nightlife. There are many great hotels in Aruba; however, the most impressive property is The Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort, Spa & Casino. Modern décor throughout and 5-star dining paired with first class spa facilities await the savvy traveler. The Hyatt pays incredible attention to detail in everything it does. One definitely feels like royalty when enjoying a first class treatment at the exclusive ZoiA Spa. Grab a drink, hit the relaxation area, and wait to be called into a treatment room to enjoy one of the many blissful services offered. Guests also enjoy direct beach access to Red Sail Sports behind the resort where sailing, scuba diving, snorkeling and kayaking adventures begin.

For the eco-friendly tourist, Bucuti & Tara Beach Resorts Aruba located on Eagle Beach have recently been recognized by garnering the Green Globe High Achievement Award. This adult only property is also known for providing the most blissfully romantic experience with beachfront candle lit private dining for two every night. For those seeking the all-inclusive experience, The Hotel Riu Palace Aruba also located on Palm Beach has everything one could possibly need without leaving the vicinity. The hotel is a 24-hour all inclusive property with four themed restaurants, a lavish breakfast buffet fit for a king, two fresh water pools and 450 rooms. Whatever type of accommodation one may seek, the options will surely exceed all of your expectations whether you’re a bonafide adventure seeker or a self proclaimed holiday beach bum!

All types of travel can be had in Aruba. The island provides all sorts of entertainment that varies from water sports to gourmet restaurant hopping to rum tasting and, of course, the marvelous Carubbian Festival. Top activities include kite surfing at Armando’s Kite Shack and a catamaran extreme snorkeling boat tour with Red Sail Sports. For a more relaxing day, sample the best Aruba has to offer with a private rum tasting at Happy Taste or sip on a Balashi beer poolside atThe Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino. A truly unique daytime activity is a visit to Arikok National Park. Its contrast to the rest of the island is fascinating with rocky shores and Conchi, Aruba’s natural pool on one end to desert terrain and divi-divi trees on the other. Head to the northeast coast of the park and uncover the Guadirikiri and Fontein caves, which are lined with drawings and graffiti left behind byAmerindians and early European settlers. The picturesque, calm landscapes are enchanting; a must see.

Wrap up the day with dinner at Marandi Restaurant where seaside dining meets modern Aruban cuisine. Perhaps head to La Trattoria El Faro Blanco Restaurant to watch the sunset. Situated on the hill of Hudishibana, you will definitely get that post card sunset snap! Or, try Driftwood Restaurant, a downtown hot spot for fresh seafood caught daily by the owner himself! Finish off the evening with a dance or two at Moomba Beach. On Thursday nights hit the Carubbian Festival in San Nicholas to see how Aruba’s locals party!

Finally, the best part about Aruba is the people who live there. They are just as sunny as the island itself. From the moment you arrive to the moment you leave, you are welcomed, pampered, and made to feel at home on the One happy island.

Don’t forget to pack your camera!

For more information on travel arrangements, please visit Aruba.com.

Want to check out other Caribbean destinations? Checkout Guadeloupe.