Hurricane Proof

Aruba

Aruba is an active island – with more than 100,000 residents, it supports a large local population which means the island has a lot to do. Expect nightlife, great dining, good shopping in the main town of Oranjestaad, and a variety of great land and water activities. Aruba is also unique in that it has amazingly consistent weather, in particular a lack of hurricanes. This makes the island a logical choice for those wanting a Caribbean beach destination from July through October.

If Aruba is for you, we recommend...

the Bucuti & Tara Beach Resorts on Eagle Beach. Located in the "low rise" hotel zone, the resort sits on a gorgeous, expansive beach, in our opinion the best on the island. That, combined with the fact that less people stay in this area means you won't encounter the wall to wall sun loungers so often seen in the "high rise" hotel neighborhood. Bucuti & Tara offers friendly service, local character so often lacking in the island's brand name chain hotels, and gorgeous, comfortable rooms. Your hope for the week is one of the Penthouse Suites in the Tara section of the resort, closest to the water.

Situated on the rooftop, these suites have...

an expansive terrace with day bed, and you'll no doubt spend quite a lot of time here! Inside is a large 1-bedroom suite with a full kitchen, spa bathroom, and four-poster bed. It just doen't get better than this in Aruba – you may never wish to leave!

But we recommend you do...

leave the resort – Aruba has much to enjoy. One day, take a snorkeling excursion; the reefs that ring the island are teaming with fish! How would you like to try either windsurfing or kite surfing? Aruba's trade winds blow year round, making it ideal for wind-driven water sports. Even if you don't participate, you'll see the colorful sails as the surfers skim across the water. If you do participate, you may feel the need for a massage afterwards to counteract the physical activity – we'll schedule a couple's massage to take care of any sore muscles! Do take the time to explore the larger island – 4x4 rental is included so you can see the dry, rocky, lunar landscape of its windward side. It's fun to go off-road as you work your way around the boulders and cacti.

Make sure to try some of Aruba's great restaurants – we've included 3 nights of "Dine Around" passes; simply choose from any of the 20+ restaurants that participate, and your dinners are included! However, while it's tempting to go-go-go on Aruba, do make sure to relax, enjoy yourselves, and sit back and enjoy the fantastic weather!

Who will enjoy this trip:

Shoppers, divers, windsport and dining enthusiasts will enjoy the range of options Aruba has to offer. Those seeking a large full service hotel will have many options here. If you require that the weather be good year 'round, Aruba is your place.

Who should avoid this trip:

If you prefer a more secluded experience, and don't want to share the beach with others, Aruba is not the best option. If you value choice in boutique luxury resorts, other islands will provide more options.