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Aruba - Suggestions Please

TXCyclones

TXCyclones

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Sep 13, 2011
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Having already visited most of the Caribbean we are planning on heading to Aruba in February. But, having never been to Aruba before I'm looking for suggestions on where to stay and any tips you may have for things to do while there. So in order of importance: resorts, restaurants, activities, attractions. Go!
 
Restaraunts: Flying Fishbone (reserve early, it goes quickly), West Deck, Zeerovers, Madame Janettes are some of our favorites. You really cant go wrong, even the smaller local shops are phenomenal.

Beaches: Eagle is the best, but every beach has something to offer. If you prefer quiet and shallow water try Baby or Mangel Halto. Try them all if you have time though!

Activities: We love doing ATV/UTV excursions to the Natural Pool and Bridge, Caves, Gold Mine, etc. But if you rent a Jeep or another durable vehicle you can explore Arikok National Park on your own a bit and hit some of those locales. Most of the shopping is done in Oranjestad, its very touristy and much of it caters to the ships. Go see the lighthouse up north and take some time to explore the dunes, they are very cool.

Accomodations: We typically AirBnB but you cant really go wrong with any of the resorts, they are positioned on great beaches and very close together.

Weather is always perfect, if it rains, it does so for about 10-15 minutes and then POOF, gone. Water is warm and clear.

We love Aruba and have been there many times now. The East side of the Island has the most nature and history but the water is rough so dont plan on swimming there or at least wade out far. Very treachurous. The landscape is very rocky and reminiscent of Mars. The whole island is only 20 miles or so, so getting around is very easy and fairly quick.
 
I’m going in January and got many of the same recs as bos posted. We are doing a Airbnb by Miguel Halto instead of the resort thing. My only concern is cabs but I’m hoping to make friends with a driver so we can get around hassle free.

One other rec I received multiple times was Charlie’s Bar
 
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ForbinsAscynt said:
I’m going in January and got many of the same recs as bos posted. We are doing a Airbnb by Miguel Halto instead of the resort thing. My only concern is cabs but I’m hoping to make friends with a driver so we can get around hassle free.

One other rec I received multiple times was Charlie’s Bar
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Curious what AirBnB you got over there. We know a few, the area over there can look a little sketch in some places but its safe. Mangel Halto is probably my favorite beach honestly.

Your cab rides from the Oranjestad are and up north will be a little longer from Mangel, but they are priced fairly.
 
Seeing you guys are going in January and Feb, you may be hitting Carnival. If you have a chance to go to the parade and party, do it. Its crazy. You will NOT be able to out-party an Aruban during it though. I promise you.
 
Another note, stick with USD, dont use Florins/Guilders, they will give you the stink eye, because even though its local, they dont want it. Ha.
 
I say a trip to Arashi Beach on the north end of the island is worth your time. Fantastic beach and you can grab some cold beer or a snack at the Arashi Beach Shack.
 
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bos said:
Curious what AirBnB you got over there. We know a few, the area over there can look a little sketch in some places but its safe. Mangel Halto is probably my favorite beach honestly.

Your cab rides from the Oranjestad are and up north will be a little longer from Mangel, but they are priced fairly.
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I am a little confused as to where they will put us but I believe the address might be wattstraat 1. The owner may manage a few more along the water there so we will see where they stick us. All the reviews I found seemed pretty good. Access to a pool, hot shower and a clean bed is all I need.
 
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Start making reservations now btw. We had to make concessions on Flying Fishbone and Madame Janettes but we still got in.
 
I put together an itinerary if you’d like to take a look. Just message me your email and I’ll send it later tonight.
 
cycloneted said:
I say a trip to Arashi Beach on the north end of the island is worth your time. Fantastic beach and you can grab some cold beer or a snack at the Arashi Beach Shack.
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My only beef with that beach is the whipping wind sometimes but it really is a nice one.
 
ForbinsAscynt said:
I am a little confused as to where they will put us but I believe the address might be wattstraat 1. The owner may manage a few more along the water there so we will see where they stick us. All the reviews I found seemed pretty good. Access to a pool, hot shower and a clean bed is all I need.
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This.
 
First, it's a desert, think Arizona, catus plants all over the place, never had a hurricane in that area. Very easy to get around, they have a great bus service, that is cheap. Eagle beach is great, but I would try Baby Beach on the far side of the island. Be sure and take a tour of the island, so you can see the whole thing and get a feel for what you like and dislike.
 
bos said:
My only beef with that beach is the whipping wind sometimes but it really is a nice one.
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Ha, now that you mention this it did get a tad windy there a time or two! Stayed at an Airbnb right by there, had some good days at Arashi Beach.
 
Sent you my itinerary.
I had some good insight from another forum.

“I have been 15 times
there is nothing to do there, which is why I go”

This isn’t normally my style but I’m going to fully enjoy checking out for a few days.
 
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