Flamingo beach at the Renaissance Hotel
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For almost 20 years I have made the annual trip to one of my favorite places in the world, the Southern Caribbean island of Aruba. The allure of powdery soft white sands of Eagle Beach and the year round bathtub warm water makes this the ultimate escape.
Visitors can experience Aruba on any budget, and most come for the best deals. Non-stop flights are not expensive from the US, and hotel rooms are plentiful at all price ranges. Most of the people I come across are from the East Coast, New York, New Jersey, Boston, and Chicago. Their enthusiasm for Aruba results in countless proclamations on what they consider the best food and activities they have ever experienced.
Located 15 miles north of Venezuela, and out of the hurricane zone, Aruba is only 19 ½ miles long and 6 miles wide, yet it is filled with so many things to do and see you are hard pressed to make decisions. Most visitors return to their favorite restaurants and hotels, but I wanted to get a few insiders views of what is new and noteworthy on the island.
Beachfront of Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort
Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort
Getting to Aruba this month was not particularly easy as arriving travelers must adhere to the island’s entry protocols, including taking a negative PCR (not Antigen) test 72 hours prior to or upon arrival, completing the island’s detailed ED Card and purchasing the mandatory Aruba Visitors Insurance. For the most up-to-date entry requirements and on-island protocols, visit the islands official website.
The airport was packed upon arrival and long lines winded through the terminal as multiple check points made sure to confirm documents. It took me almost 90 minutes from landing to my rental car. The departure experience is also a long journey as travelers are told to get to the airport four hours early since you also clear US customs in Aruba. However once you are on the island you will notice it is not crowded at all, as tourism is just now starting its rebound.
Aerial view of the Palm Beach area where most of the large hotels are located.
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I spoke with Ronella Croes, CEO of Aruba Tourism Authority, who filled me in on the many new developments on Aruba. “In the last 18 months, Aruba has rolled out a slew of exciting new developments and offerings, including the addition of the new 133-suite …….