You’ll enjoy walking in the sands of time in Aruba with its world-class beaches and always-perfect weather making this a top destination for tourist. Aruba is constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Located in the mid-south of the Caribbean Sea. Combined with the warm and inviting culture makes it all the more irresistible. One thing you may find hard to believe is that Aruba is one of the safest vacation spots in the Caribbean which is definitely top priority. There are four languages spoken here on the island, Papiamento, Dutch, English and Spanish. You won’t have any trouble getting around! 🙂
Sitting about 29 kilometres north of the Venezuela peninsula of Paraguaná and 80 kilometres northwest of Curaçao is Aruba the happy island. Nothing beats walking in the sands of time and creating memories. The people of Aruba truly make it all that it is. The warm culture meets the warmth of the bluest sea that surrounds you. Falling in love with the island was simple and has filled my heart with so much joy ever since.
“Bon Bini!” (Welcome!)
1. Where to stay?
Fly into Oranjestad, Aruba (Queen Beatrix International airport) which is the capital city of Aruba. There are plenty of hotels and resorts to choose from and most are even located on private beachfronts! Below I’ve listed a few favorites.
- Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort Spa & Casino –
- 4.5-star luxury resort
- Located on the beach.
- About 17-minute drive to AUA airport
- 4-minute walk to Palm Beach
- Barceló Aruba –
- All-inclusive property (meaning all meals/beverages are included in the price)
- Beachfront property
- Bubali Bird Sanctuary – 10-minute walk
- Paseo Herencia Shopping Mall and Palm Beach Plaza
- About 17-minute drive to AUA airport
- Renaissance Aruba Resort – My personal favorite!
- All-inclusive option available
- Sea view property
- Access to the private island with flamingos
- Within walking distance to restaurants, gift shops and more!
HOW TO GET TO ARUBA
Like many islands, many travel by air if so, you’ll land at Queen Beatrix International Airport located in Oranjestad, Aruba. However, if you’re looking for a short stay then a cruise may be more your speed.
2. Things to Do in Aruba?
Despite Aruba being a small island, there are plenty of activities to do here and must-see sightseeing tours too. Let’s get into it! 😉 Below are some amazing activities and tours you wouldn’t want to miss!
- Some of my personal favorites:
- Fort Zoutman Historical Museum – a military fortification at Oranjestad, Aruba that was originally built in 1798 by African slaves. You can learn a lot about the history here on the island and definitely worth it!
- Bushiribana Ruins– Historic Gold Mines a 19th century gold mill
- Aruba Aloe Factory Museum – Aruba was once the largest exporter of aloe vera.
- Balashi Brewery & Beer Garden – Balashi is Aruba’s local island brew.
- Aruba Mural Tours – Take a grand tour through San Nicolaas to see amazing murals throughout the city.
- Renaissance Private Island – Nothing beats the flamingos! Here are a few things I wish I knew the day pass is $125 per person and this price includes one meal and one drink. If you book your stay at the Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort, you will have access to this private island at no additional cost! Be sure to carry quarters with you to buy food for the flamingos. A quarter will get you a large handful! This way you’ll attract them for photos and videos!
- Snorkeling – You can never go wrong with this great experience in turquoise blue water 🙂
3. Best time to Walk the Sands of Time in Aruba?
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT ARUBA
Although Aruba has amazing weather all year round, the best time to visit is between April and August the island’s high prices take a holiday and rainfall is at its lowest. January to March features very pleasant weather. Keep in mind anytime of the year is a perfect time to visit the island. Most of the rain falls from late October through early January.
Pictured above are photos of me feeding a flamingo and sipping coconuts and walking the sands of time. Ahh, living the life! 🙂
WHAT DOES IT COST TO TRAVEL AROUND ARUBA
Firstly, round trip flights can cost between $250-$400 depending on the time of year. I love to shop around for the best deals. Lastly, hotel/resorts cost were about $1,200USD. I stayed at the Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort. Undoubtedly, the best decision. The cost of $1,200 included 5 nights/6 days stay with a gorgeous sea front view and free access and boat ride to the Renaissance Private Island! Additionally, I booked an hour and a half full body massage in a private cabana at the Renaissance Private Island. Experience the pinnacle of pampering at Okeanos Spa where they offer facials, full-body wraps, massages and so much more. In conclusion, this is the place for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation.
Walking in the sands of time – Aruba
