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ARUBA<br />
SPRING & SUMMER GUIDE 2008<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>best</strong> <strong>places</strong> <strong>to</strong> <strong>eat</strong>, <strong>sleep</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>play</strong><br />
<strong>in</strong> <strong>Aruba</strong> <strong>this</strong> spr<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> summer<br />
With more than 15 million reviews <strong>and</strong> op<strong>in</strong>ions, TripAdvisor makes travel plann<strong>in</strong>g<br />
a snap for the 25 million travelers visit<strong>in</strong>g our site each month.
INTRODUCTION<br />
TripAdvisor, the most trusted source for where <strong>to</strong> <strong>eat</strong>, <strong>sleep</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>play</strong> <strong>in</strong> thous<strong>and</strong>s of dest<strong>in</strong>ations around<br />
the world, has collected the <strong>best</strong> <strong>in</strong>sider tips from its 25 million monthly visi<strong>to</strong>rs <strong>to</strong> produce a unique<br />
series of travel guides. In addition <strong>to</strong> the <strong>best</strong> hotels, restaurants <strong>and</strong> attractions for every type of traveler,<br />
you’ll get gr<strong>eat</strong> advice about what <strong>to</strong> pack, how <strong>to</strong> get around <strong>and</strong> where <strong>to</strong> f<strong>in</strong>d the <strong>best</strong> views. Be sure<br />
<strong>to</strong> check out the guides at www.tripadvisor.com.<br />
You’ll f<strong>in</strong>d reviews for more than 215,000<br />
hotels, 75,000 attractions <strong>and</strong> 260,000<br />
restaurants on TripAdvisor.com. Learn from<br />
other travelers what <strong>to</strong> expect before you<br />
make your plans.<br />
PACKING TIPS<br />
1. Don’t forget your passport—even<br />
for travel from the United States. It’s<br />
required for all air <strong>and</strong> sea border<br />
cross<strong>in</strong>gs.<br />
2. “Br<strong>in</strong>g some cheap rafts from home<br />
for the lazy river as they will soak you<br />
for them at the resort.”—TripAdvisor<br />
Member, Moul<strong>to</strong>nboro, N.H.<br />
3. “If you have the space <strong>to</strong> br<strong>in</strong>g your<br />
own f<strong>in</strong>s, mask <strong>and</strong> snorkel, it<br />
might be worth it. Or br<strong>in</strong>g your own<br />
snorkel <strong>and</strong> mask <strong>and</strong> just rent f<strong>in</strong>s.”—<br />
TripAdvisor Member, United States<br />
4. “Br<strong>in</strong>g a collapsible cooler for<br />
the beach.”—TripAdvisor Member,<br />
Massachusetts<br />
Inside<br />
ARUBA<br />
If you like <strong>to</strong> travel <strong>to</strong> a new dest<strong>in</strong>ation with every vacation,<br />
<strong>Aruba</strong> isn’t what you’re look<strong>in</strong>g for. This t<strong>in</strong>y isl<strong>and</strong>—with the<br />
highest rep<strong>eat</strong>-visi<strong>to</strong>r rate of any country <strong>in</strong> the Caribbean—is<br />
the k<strong>in</strong>d of place that will entice you <strong>to</strong> return year after<br />
year. But don’t worry, you won’t m<strong>in</strong>d. Despite <strong>Aruba</strong>’s<br />
Lilliputian size, other, much larger dest<strong>in</strong>ations have a hard<br />
time compet<strong>in</strong>g with all of its seductive attributes: reliable <strong>and</strong><br />
nearly perfect w<strong>eat</strong>her (plus it’s nowhere near the hurricane<br />
belt), friendly residents, ideal beaches <strong>and</strong> a stunn<strong>in</strong>g range<br />
of quality hotels, truly decadent d<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g options <strong>and</strong> a range of<br />
activities from horseback rid<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong> rock div<strong>in</strong>g <strong>to</strong> gambl<strong>in</strong>g<br />
<strong>and</strong> club-hopp<strong>in</strong>g. With all <strong>this</strong>, you just might f<strong>in</strong>d your visit is<br />
the first of many.<br />
tripadvisor.com 2
Top<br />
VIEWS<br />
ARUBA’S BEST VIEWS<br />
“For hik<strong>in</strong>g, climb Hooiberg. Take a lot of<br />
water, <strong>and</strong> try <strong>to</strong> go early <strong>in</strong> the morn<strong>in</strong>g<br />
before it gets <strong>to</strong>o hot. <strong>The</strong> view from the<br />
<strong>to</strong>p of the Hooiberg is gr<strong>eat</strong>!”—TripAdvisor<br />
Member, M<strong>in</strong>neapolis, M<strong>in</strong>n.<br />
Hooiberg, the second-highest po<strong>in</strong>t of<br />
elevation on the isl<strong>and</strong><br />
Where<br />
<strong>to</strong> PLAY<br />
TOP 10 Attractions<br />
1. JADS Dive Center, Seroe Colorado z/n San Nicholaas, 297 584 6070<br />
2. <strong>The</strong> Antilla, Northwestern <strong>Aruba</strong><br />
3. ABC Jeep Tour, Oranjestad, Hotel pick-up, 297 582 5600<br />
4. Rancho Daimari, Tanki Leendert 249, 297 586 6284<br />
5. Natural Pool, W<strong>in</strong>dward Coast<br />
6. Arashi Beach, Northwestern <strong>Aruba</strong><br />
FAMILIES<br />
“I loved Baby Beach. We snorkeled <strong>and</strong><br />
someone was feed<strong>in</strong>g the fish, so we were<br />
among a swarm. <strong>The</strong> beach was clean, <strong>and</strong><br />
the water was crystal clear. We thoroughly<br />
enjoyed it <strong>and</strong> had most of the beach <strong>to</strong><br />
ourselves.”—TripAdvisor Member, San<br />
An<strong>to</strong>nio, Texas<br />
Baby Beach, Southeast Coast<br />
ROMANCE<br />
Rid<strong>in</strong>g horses down the beach is about as<br />
romantic as it gets. Br<strong>in</strong>g the fantasy <strong>to</strong> life<br />
with Rancho No<strong>to</strong>rious.<br />
Rancho No<strong>to</strong>rious, Boroncana, Noord,<br />
297 586 0508<br />
Call an Expedia Travel Specialist now 877 633 3716<br />
“<strong>The</strong> Natural Bridge’ is gone, but there<br />
are two lesser known (<strong>and</strong> much smaller)<br />
natural bridges still on the isl<strong>and</strong>. One can<br />
be found a little <strong>to</strong> the north of ‘<strong>The</strong> Natural<br />
Bridge,’ <strong>and</strong> the second is <strong>in</strong> the area of <strong>The</strong><br />
Colorado Light, down by Baby Beach. Even<br />
if you don’t f<strong>in</strong>d it, the view at <strong>this</strong> elevated<br />
po<strong>in</strong>t along the Southern Coast is worth<br />
the trip.”—TripAdvisor Member<br />
“Butterfly Farm is gr<strong>eat</strong> for both kids <strong>and</strong><br />
adults. It is basically an enclosed garden<br />
filled with many varieties of beautiful<br />
butterflies. <strong>The</strong> entrance fee is m<strong>in</strong>imal,<br />
<strong>and</strong> it <strong>in</strong>cludes an <strong>in</strong>terest<strong>in</strong>g <strong>to</strong>ur. All the<br />
kids were mesmerized <strong>and</strong> asked a <strong>to</strong>n of<br />
questions.”—TripAdvisor Member, New<br />
York, N.Y.<br />
Butterfly Farm, J.E. Irausqu<strong>in</strong> Blvd.,<br />
Oranjestad, 297 586 3656<br />
Perhaps you’ll be <strong>in</strong>spired <strong>to</strong> buy a<br />
certa<strong>in</strong> piece of jewelry at Diamonds<br />
International Outlet S<strong>to</strong>re. “<strong>The</strong><br />
employees were very knowledgeable,<br />
courteous <strong>and</strong> friendly. Gr<strong>eat</strong> deals, unique<br />
items. It’s worth a visit.”—TripAdvisor<br />
Member, Green Bay, Wis.<br />
Diamonds International Outlet S<strong>to</strong>re, L.G.<br />
Smith Blvd. 17, Port of Call Marketplace,<br />
Oranjestad, 800 515 3935<br />
“Go <strong>to</strong> the California Lighthouse not<br />
only for the lighthouse itself, but for the<br />
view, which is just beautiful.”—TripAdvisor<br />
Member, Massachusetts<br />
California Lighthouse, Northern <strong>Aruba</strong><br />
7. Butterfly Farm, J. E. Irausqu<strong>in</strong> Boulevard, Oranjestad, 297 586 3656<br />
8. Natural Bridge, W<strong>in</strong>dward Coast, 297 582 3777<br />
9. Fort Zoutman, Zoutmanstraat 1, Oranjestad, 297 582 6099<br />
10. Malmok Beach, West Side<br />
Go under the sea <strong>to</strong>gether with Atlantis<br />
Submar<strong>in</strong>es <strong>to</strong> view <strong>Aruba</strong>’s underwater<br />
attractions, like sea cr<strong>eat</strong>ures, coral reefs<br />
<strong>and</strong> even two shipwrecks.<br />
Atlantis Submar<strong>in</strong>es (<strong>Aruba</strong>) N.V., Atlantis<br />
Adventure Center, L.G. Smith Blvd. 82,<br />
Oranjestad, 297 588 6881<br />
“All the kids were<br />
mesmerized”<br />
Pack some sweets, take a hike <strong>to</strong> Seroe<br />
Colorado cliff <strong>and</strong> witness a gorgeous<br />
sunset.<br />
Seroe Colorado, Southeastern <strong>Aruba</strong>, near<br />
Baby Beach<br />
tripadvisor.com 3
Where<br />
BUDGET<br />
ADVENTURE<br />
Test your luck at Alhambra Cas<strong>in</strong>o. “It is a<br />
very nice cas<strong>in</strong>o with plenty of slots, video<br />
poker games, etc.”—TripAdvisor Member,<br />
Arl<strong>in</strong>g<strong>to</strong>n, Va.<br />
Alhambra Cas<strong>in</strong>o, J.E. Irausqu<strong>in</strong> Blvd. 47,<br />
Oranjestad, 297 583 5000<br />
EDUCATIONAL/HISTORICAL<br />
Don’t miss the Ayo Rock Formations. <strong>The</strong><br />
“S<strong>to</strong>nehenge of <strong>Aruba</strong> is just amaz<strong>in</strong>g.”—<br />
TripAdvisor Member, San An<strong>to</strong>nio, Texas<br />
S<strong>to</strong>nehenge of <strong>Aruba</strong>, Northeastern <strong>Aruba</strong><br />
RELAXATION<br />
<strong>to</strong> PLAY<br />
Br<strong>in</strong>g your b<strong>in</strong>oculars <strong>and</strong> see how many<br />
birds you can spot at Bubali Pond, a<br />
sanctuary for black cormorants, pelicans,<br />
wood s<strong>to</strong>rks <strong>and</strong> more.<br />
Bubali Pond, Western <strong>Aruba</strong> (near Palm <strong>and</strong><br />
Eagle Beach)<br />
“…quite an experience.”<br />
“Arashi Beach is a bit more secluded <strong>and</strong><br />
less commercialized than the other popular<br />
beaches. This beach does not have any<br />
facilities. <strong>The</strong> water is calm, for the most<br />
part, <strong>and</strong> clear. Such a peaceful way <strong>to</strong><br />
spend the day!”—TripAdvisor Member,<br />
Woodbridge, N.J.<br />
Arashi Beach, Northwestern <strong>Aruba</strong><br />
Call an Expedia Travel Specialist now 877 633 3716<br />
“<strong>The</strong> Natural Pool was a highlight of<br />
our trip. <strong>The</strong> walk down <strong>to</strong> the pool was<br />
quite an experience. It was k<strong>in</strong>d of tricky<br />
gett<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> the pool. <strong>The</strong> rocks were sharp<br />
<strong>and</strong> slippery, <strong>and</strong> there were some crabs<br />
crawl<strong>in</strong>g around you didn’t want <strong>to</strong> grab<br />
hold of. But hey—<strong>this</strong> is a NATURAL<br />
POOL!”—TripAdvisor Member, Michigan<br />
Natural Pool, W<strong>in</strong>dward Coast (you will<br />
need a 4-wheel drive vehicle or horse plus<br />
directions or a guide)<br />
“<strong>The</strong> Antilla was the <strong>best</strong> th<strong>in</strong>g we saw<br />
<strong>in</strong> <strong>Aruba</strong>. We were feel<strong>in</strong>g ambitious, so<br />
we swam the 750 meters <strong>to</strong> the wreck.<br />
It was a lot of kick<strong>in</strong>g, but it made the<br />
experience more of an adventure. Gr<strong>eat</strong><br />
fish <strong>and</strong> amaz<strong>in</strong>g <strong>to</strong> see such a wreck<br />
while snorkel<strong>in</strong>g.”—TripAdvisor Member,<br />
Hous<strong>to</strong>n, Texas<br />
<strong>The</strong> Antilla, Northwestern <strong>Aruba</strong><br />
Relive <strong>Aruba</strong>’s colonial his<strong>to</strong>ry at Fort<br />
Zoutman, built by the Dutch <strong>in</strong> the<br />
late 18th century <strong>to</strong> defend <strong>Aruba</strong> from<br />
maraud<strong>in</strong>g pirates.<br />
Fort Zoutman, Zoutmanstraat 1,<br />
Oranjestad, 297 582 6099<br />
“Such a peaceful way<br />
<strong>to</strong> spend the day!”<br />
<strong>The</strong> only championship course on the isl<strong>and</strong>,<br />
Tierra Del Sol Golf Course is “a beautiful<br />
course! We <strong>play</strong>ed after 3:00 at the reduced<br />
rate <strong>and</strong> were still able <strong>to</strong> f<strong>in</strong>ish 18 holes.<br />
<strong>The</strong>re was hardly anyone on the course.<br />
It was very w<strong>in</strong>dy <strong>play</strong> but well worth<br />
the experience.”—TripAdvisor Member,<br />
Connecticut<br />
Tierra Del Sol Golf Course, Northwestern<br />
<strong>Aruba</strong>, 297 586 0978<br />
Down<strong>to</strong>wn Oranjestad has a secret:<br />
Wilhelm<strong>in</strong>a Park, named after the queen<br />
of the Netherl<strong>and</strong>s, is a bit of green on the<br />
ocean’s edge <strong>and</strong> a gr<strong>eat</strong> place <strong>to</strong> relax <strong>and</strong><br />
people-watch.<br />
Wilhelm<strong>in</strong>a Park, Oranjestad<br />
Thanks <strong>to</strong> its strong trade w<strong>in</strong>ds,<br />
Bachelor’s Beach offers an ideal venue for<br />
your w<strong>in</strong>dsurf<strong>in</strong>g pursuits.<br />
Bachelor’s Beach, Southeastern <strong>Aruba</strong><br />
TripAdvisor members have posted<br />
more than 1,100,000 pho<strong>to</strong>s on the site.<br />
<strong>The</strong> good, the bad <strong>and</strong> the very c<strong>and</strong>id.<br />
It’s almost like be<strong>in</strong>g there!<br />
Al<strong>to</strong> Vista Chapel, established <strong>in</strong> 1750,<br />
was thought <strong>to</strong> be the first Caribbean<br />
church. “It is a small, pretty chapel with<br />
a good view of the ocean on the rough<br />
north side of the isl<strong>and</strong>. It is accessible by<br />
dirt road.”—TripAdvisor Member, Bucks<br />
County, Pa<br />
Al<strong>to</strong> Vista Chapel, Northwestern <strong>Aruba</strong><br />
“Intermezzo Day Spa ... <strong>to</strong>tal relaxation.<br />
I had a massage <strong>and</strong> body scrub. <strong>The</strong><br />
experience was wonderful. <strong>The</strong> technician<br />
was pleasant, <strong>and</strong> the facility was beautiful<br />
<strong>and</strong> quiet.”—TripAdvisor Member, Bos<strong>to</strong>n,<br />
Mass.<br />
Intermezzo Day Spa, La Cabana All-Suite<br />
Beach Resort, J.E. Irausqu<strong>in</strong> Blvd. 250,<br />
Oranjestad, 297 587 4356<br />
tripadvisor.com 4
What’s<br />
the TOUR<br />
FAMILIES<br />
Smokey Joe’s Isl<strong>and</strong> Grill, with its<br />
hamburgers, chicken w<strong>in</strong>gs <strong>and</strong> fried Oreos,<br />
“is a gr<strong>eat</strong> place <strong>to</strong> take the kids.”—<br />
TripAdvisor Member<br />
Smokey Joe’s Isl<strong>and</strong> Grill, J.E. Irausqu<strong>in</strong> Blvd.<br />
87, Palm Beach, 297 586 2896<br />
How <strong>to</strong> Get Around<br />
“You MUST rent a car <strong>and</strong> explore the isl<strong>and</strong>; if you’re somewhat<br />
adventurous, then make it a Jeep. <strong>Aruba</strong> is easy, safe <strong>and</strong> fun <strong>to</strong><br />
drive <strong>and</strong> explore. At least one day of <strong>this</strong> is a must!”—TripAdvisor<br />
Member, Raleigh, N.C.<br />
WHERE <strong>to</strong><br />
<strong>eat</strong><br />
ROMANCE<br />
“Fly<strong>in</strong>g Fishbone is by far the most<br />
romantic restaurant <strong>in</strong> <strong>Aruba</strong>. <strong>The</strong> ambiance<br />
is <strong>best</strong> when view<strong>in</strong>g the sunset. <strong>The</strong> tables<br />
are <strong>in</strong> the s<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> very close <strong>to</strong> the water’s<br />
edge.”—TripAdvisor Member<br />
Fly<strong>in</strong>g Fishbone, Savaneta 344, Savaneta,<br />
297 584 2506<br />
Call an Expedia Travel Specialist now 877 633 3716<br />
“At <strong>The</strong> Waterfront Crabhouse, we had<br />
<strong>this</strong> amaz<strong>in</strong>g d<strong>in</strong>ner—big Caesar salad, huge<br />
plate of crab-k<strong>in</strong>g crab legs, snow crab legs,<br />
stuffed soft shell crab, crab cake, plus pota<strong>to</strong><br />
or rice <strong>and</strong> tiramisu dessert.”—TripAdvisor<br />
Member, Denver, Colo.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Waterfront Crabhouse, L.G. Smith<br />
Blvd., Oranjestad, 297 583 5858<br />
“Le Dôme is outst<strong>and</strong><strong>in</strong>g! <strong>The</strong> <strong>best</strong><br />
service we have ever had. <strong>The</strong>ir food is<br />
delicious, <strong>and</strong> the Belgian chocolate is <strong>to</strong><br />
die for! Romantic, beautiful ambiance.”—<br />
TripAdvisor Member, Missouri<br />
Le Dôme Restaurant, J.E. Irausqu<strong>in</strong> Blvd.<br />
224, Eagle Beach, 297 587 1517<br />
“Arubus travels from one end of the isl<strong>and</strong> <strong>to</strong> the other, almost 24<br />
hours a day.”—TripAdvisor Member<br />
“<strong>Aruba</strong> offers everyth<strong>in</strong>g from casual fast food <strong>to</strong> upscale d<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g.<br />
Most restaurants are casual dress, which makes your vacation relax<strong>in</strong>g.”—TripAdvisor Member<br />
BUDGET<br />
“Iguana Joe’s is located down<strong>to</strong>wn <strong>and</strong><br />
is a gr<strong>eat</strong> place for lunch or a light d<strong>in</strong>ner.<br />
<strong>The</strong> menu is <strong>in</strong>expensive <strong>and</strong> varied.”—<br />
TripAdvisor Member<br />
Iguana Joe’s, Royal Plaza Mall, Oranjestad,<br />
297 583 9373<br />
“…the most romantic<br />
restaurant <strong>in</strong> <strong>Aruba</strong>.”<br />
“El Gaucho is an Argent<strong>in</strong>ian steakhouse<br />
that offers succulent steaks at a gr<strong>eat</strong> price.<br />
<strong>The</strong> stroll<strong>in</strong>g m<strong>in</strong>strels around the restaurant<br />
offer a fun <strong>and</strong> lively atmosphere.”—<br />
TripAdvisor Member<br />
El Gaucho, Wilhelm<strong>in</strong>astraat 80, Oranjestad,<br />
297 582 3677<br />
Want more <strong>in</strong>formation on <strong>Aruba</strong>?<br />
TripAdvisor.com offers free weekly e-mail<br />
updates filled with new deals, reviews <strong>and</strong><br />
articles for <strong>Aruba</strong> or any other dest<strong>in</strong>ation<br />
you choose.<br />
Serv<strong>in</strong>g an array of seafood, “Ru<strong>in</strong>as del<br />
Mar is very good. Make sure you get a table<br />
outside because the ambiance is very nice<br />
(small moat, <strong>to</strong>rches at night).”—TripAdvisor<br />
Member, M<strong>in</strong>neapolis, M<strong>in</strong>n.<br />
Ru<strong>in</strong>as del Mar, Hyatt Regency <strong>Aruba</strong><br />
Resort & Cas<strong>in</strong>o, J.E. Irausqu<strong>in</strong> Blvd. 85,<br />
Palm Beach, 297 586 1234<br />
“Passions Beach Bar & Restaurant<br />
sets up tables, chairs, tiki <strong>to</strong>rches, etc., on<br />
the beach for a romantic d<strong>in</strong>ner at sunset.<br />
<strong>The</strong> menu is varied, so there is someth<strong>in</strong>g<br />
for everyone. Very affordable, as well.”—<br />
TripAdvisor Member<br />
Passions Beach Bar & Restaurant,<br />
Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort, J.E.<br />
Irausqu<strong>in</strong> Blvd. 252, Oranjestad,<br />
297 527 1100<br />
Go for the affordable Cuban food. Go for<br />
the fun, relaxed atmosphere. Or “go <strong>to</strong><br />
Cuba’s Cook<strong>in</strong>’ for a moji<strong>to</strong>.”—TripAdvisor<br />
Member<br />
Cuba’s Cook<strong>in</strong>’, Wilhelm<strong>in</strong>astraat 27,<br />
Oranjestad, 297 588 0627<br />
tripadvisor.com 5
WHERE <strong>to</strong><br />
<strong>eat</strong><br />
HEALTH-CONSCIOUS<br />
At Gaspari<strong>to</strong> Restaurant & Art Gallery,<br />
“you can sample traditional <strong>Aruba</strong>n dishes,<br />
local fresh seafood or the f<strong>in</strong>est filet mignon.<br />
Vegetarians will also be impressed by their<br />
menu selections.”—TripAdvisor Member<br />
Gaspari<strong>to</strong> Restaurant & Art Gallery,<br />
Gaspari<strong>to</strong> 3, Oranjestad, 297 586 7044<br />
HIDDEN GEMS<br />
“<strong>The</strong> Chalet Suisse offers cont<strong>in</strong>ental<br />
d<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g. This restaurant has a familiar<br />
follow<strong>in</strong>g by locals who appreciate<br />
f<strong>in</strong>e cuis<strong>in</strong>e. Try the fondue dessert.”—<br />
TripAdvisor Member<br />
<strong>The</strong> Chalet Suisse, J. Irausqu<strong>in</strong> Blvd. 246,<br />
Eagle Beach, 297 587 5054<br />
SPECIAL EVENTS<br />
Mo<strong>to</strong>r sports are all the rage on <strong>Aruba</strong>, <strong>and</strong> the Royal Nationals<br />
Drag Race is one of the premiere events on the isl<strong>and</strong>’s rac<strong>in</strong>g<br />
calendar. <strong>The</strong> 25th anniversary of the event should be quite a<br />
spectacle. (May 1-3)<br />
Royal Nationals Drag Race, Palo Marga International Raceway Park,<br />
San Nicolas, 297 584 0322<br />
Hosted by comedian S<strong>in</strong>bad, the annual Soul Beach Music Festival,<br />
br<strong>in</strong>gs <strong>to</strong>gether gr<strong>eat</strong> comedy <strong>and</strong> smooth grooves under the stars<br />
each Memorial Day weekend. Among <strong>this</strong> year’s performers are<br />
Erykah <strong>Bad</strong>u, Sean K<strong>in</strong>gs<strong>to</strong>n, Wyclef Jean, <strong>and</strong> Ledisi. (May 21-26)<br />
Soul Beach Music Festival, Various venues, http://www.soulbeach.net<br />
“If you’re look<strong>in</strong>g for a terrific meal<br />
somewhere different, try Madame<br />
Janette. Truly a memorable experience,<br />
with attentive staff, gourmet food <strong>and</strong><br />
portions that are very generous.”—<br />
TripAdvisor Member, Bramp<strong>to</strong>n, Ontario<br />
Madame Janette, Cunuco Abao 37, Eagle<br />
Beach, 297 587 0184<br />
<strong>Aruba</strong>’s annual National Beach Tennis Championships are<br />
held over three days at the lively Moomba Beach. Often called “X-<br />
Tennis,” beach tennis is a mixture of tennis <strong>and</strong> volleyball. Played on a<br />
volleyball court, <strong>play</strong>ers use tennis racquets <strong>to</strong> hit a ball over the net<br />
without lett<strong>in</strong>g it bounce. (May 29-June 1)<br />
National Beach Tennis Championships, Moomba Beach, 297 583 7074<br />
On St. John’s Day (or “Dera Gai”), the image of the rooster is seen<br />
all over <strong>Aruba</strong>. Festive songs, bright yellow <strong>and</strong> red costumes <strong>and</strong><br />
traditional dances surround the annual festival. Dat<strong>in</strong>g back <strong>to</strong> 1862,<br />
Dera Gai is celebrated on the Feast of St. John the Baptist <strong>to</strong> give<br />
thanks for a successful harvest. (June 24)<br />
St. John’s Day, Various venues<br />
Call an Expedia Travel Specialist now 877 633 3716<br />
Vegetarians will delight <strong>in</strong> the extensive<br />
menu at Hostaria da’ Vit<strong>to</strong>rio, with a<br />
number of veg-friendly pastas <strong>and</strong> risot<strong>to</strong>s.<br />
Hostaria da’ Vit<strong>to</strong>rio, L.G. Smith Blvd. 380,<br />
Palm Beach, 297 586 3838<br />
“Truly a memorable<br />
experience”<br />
“Salt & Pepper Restaurant is a tapas<br />
place <strong>and</strong> has nightly enterta<strong>in</strong>ment on the<br />
plaza.”—TripAdvisor Member, Wash<strong>in</strong>g<strong>to</strong>n,<br />
D.C.<br />
Salt & Pepper Restaurant, J. E. Irausqu<strong>in</strong><br />
Blvd. 368A, Noord, 297 586 3280<br />
“Rumba Bar & Grill is gr<strong>eat</strong> for d<strong>in</strong>ner or<br />
lunch. It’s a casual place with gr<strong>eat</strong> food <strong>and</strong><br />
prices.”—TripAdvisor Member, M<strong>in</strong>neapolis,<br />
M<strong>in</strong>n.<br />
Rumba Bar & Grill, Havenstraat 4,<br />
Oranjestad, 297 588 7900<br />
Leap <strong>in</strong><strong>to</strong> the waves for the annual <strong>Aruba</strong> Hi-W<strong>in</strong>ds Competition.<br />
W<strong>in</strong>dsurf<strong>in</strong>g takes place at Fisherman’s Huts on Malmok Beach <strong>and</strong><br />
kiteboard<strong>in</strong>g at Boca Gr<strong>and</strong>i beach across the isl<strong>and</strong>. Men, women,<br />
juniors, masters <strong>and</strong> freestylers are all welcome. (July 2-7)<br />
<strong>Aruba</strong> Hi-W<strong>in</strong>ds Competition, Malmok <strong>and</strong> Boca Gr<strong>and</strong>i beaches,<br />
297 586 0908<br />
<strong>Aruba</strong>’s annual International Pro-Am Golf Tournament is held at<br />
the swanky Tierra del Sol Resort <strong>and</strong> Golf Course. In <strong>this</strong> 36-hole event,<br />
teams are comprised of one professional <strong>and</strong> four amateur golfers. <strong>The</strong><br />
fee is 400USD for each amateur <strong>play</strong>er; professionals are free. (August)<br />
International Pro-Am Golf Tournament, Tierra del Sol Resort <strong>and</strong><br />
Golf Course, Malmokweg, 297 586 7800<br />
Inspired by the annual North Sea Jazz Fest <strong>in</strong> the Netherl<strong>and</strong>s, the<br />
second annual Caribbean Sea Jazz Festival promises a wonderful<br />
l<strong>in</strong>e–up, f<strong>eat</strong>ur<strong>in</strong>g gr<strong>eat</strong> <strong>in</strong>ternational musicians <strong>and</strong> local <strong>in</strong>terpreters<br />
<strong>play</strong><strong>in</strong>g for charity under the stars. (September 6)<br />
Caribbean Sea Jazz Festival, Cas Di Cultura, Vondellaan 2,<br />
Oranjestad, 297 582 1010<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Aruba</strong> Music Festival was orig<strong>in</strong>ally called the <strong>Aruba</strong> Lat<strong>in</strong> Jazz<br />
Festival, but <strong>in</strong> 2002, the event became ma<strong>in</strong>ly a classic rock concert.<br />
Past performers have <strong>in</strong>cluded Crosby, Stills & Nash, Chicago, Peter<br />
Framp<strong>to</strong>n, <strong>and</strong> John Mayer. (Oc<strong>to</strong>ber 10-11)<br />
<strong>Aruba</strong> Music Festival, <strong>Aruba</strong> Enterta<strong>in</strong>ment Center, Oranjestad,<br />
297 582 3777<br />
tripadvisor.com 6
Where<br />
LUXURY<br />
<strong>to</strong><br />
FAMILIES<br />
“I was concerned about travel<strong>in</strong>g with an<br />
<strong>in</strong>fant, but the Radisson <strong>Aruba</strong> Resort <strong>and</strong><br />
Cas<strong>in</strong>o staff was awesome! We were able <strong>to</strong><br />
check <strong>in</strong> early, <strong>and</strong> they even provided a m<strong>in</strong>irefrigera<strong>to</strong>r<br />
<strong>and</strong> crib when we requested<br />
them, at no additional charge.”—TripAdvisor<br />
Member, New York, N.Y.<br />
Radisson <strong>Aruba</strong> Resort <strong>and</strong> Cas<strong>in</strong>o, J. E.<br />
Irausqu<strong>in</strong> Blvd. 81, Palm Beach,<br />
297 586 6555<br />
ROMANCE<br />
BUDGET<br />
“Comfortable, clean, happy <strong>and</strong> relax<strong>in</strong>g, the<br />
Arubiana Inn is a gr<strong>eat</strong> alternative for those<br />
who wish <strong>to</strong> experience the beauty of <strong>Aruba</strong>,<br />
but don’t want <strong>to</strong> break their budgets <strong>in</strong><br />
do<strong>in</strong>g so. <strong>The</strong>re’s someth<strong>in</strong>g <strong>to</strong> be said when<br />
the owner of the place takes a personal<br />
<strong>in</strong>terest.”—TripAdvisor Member, Colorado<br />
Arubiana Inn, Bubali 74, Oranjestad,<br />
297 587 7700<br />
“<strong>The</strong> Riu Palace is the <strong>best</strong> all <strong>in</strong>clusive<br />
that we’ve ever stayed at. <strong>The</strong> pool is<br />
gr<strong>eat</strong>, <strong>and</strong> the rooms are large, clean <strong>and</strong><br />
well-ma<strong>in</strong>ta<strong>in</strong>ed. <strong>The</strong> staff is friendly, <strong>and</strong><br />
the restaurants are the <strong>best</strong>. It’s nice <strong>to</strong><br />
f<strong>in</strong>d a place that does everyth<strong>in</strong>g right.”—<br />
TripAdvisor Member, New Jersey<br />
Riu Palace, J.E. Irausqu<strong>in</strong> Blvd. 79, Palm<br />
Beach, 297 586 3900<br />
STAY<br />
“My husb<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> I enjoyed our honeymoon<br />
at Bucuti Beach Resort. It was absolutely<br />
gorgeous! <strong>The</strong>re is noth<strong>in</strong>g quite like the<br />
view of the beach each morn<strong>in</strong>g. <strong>The</strong> staff<br />
was extremely friendly <strong>and</strong> helpful. We<br />
were very sad <strong>to</strong> leave.”—TripAdvisor<br />
Member, Raleigh, N.C.<br />
Golden Tulip Bucuti Beach Resort, L.G.<br />
Smith Blvd. 55-B, Oranjestad, 297 583 1100<br />
Call an Expedia Travel Specialist now 877 633 3716<br />
“At the Costa L<strong>in</strong>da Beach Resort, the<br />
rooms are a bit dated but very clean. <strong>The</strong> staff<br />
is very friendly <strong>and</strong> helpful! <strong>The</strong> resort itself<br />
is beautiful. <strong>The</strong> pool <strong>and</strong> beach are by far<br />
the <strong>best</strong> my family has ever experienced.”—<br />
TripAdvisor Member, Ambler, Pa.<br />
Costa L<strong>in</strong>da Beach Resort, J.E. Irausqu<strong>in</strong><br />
Blvd. 59, Eagle Beach, 297 583 8000<br />
“We were very sad <strong>to</strong> leave.”<br />
“We just returned from our honeymoon at<br />
the Marriott <strong>Aruba</strong> Resort. If you’re <strong>in</strong><strong>to</strong><br />
quality <strong>and</strong> class, <strong>this</strong> is where you want <strong>to</strong><br />
be. <strong>The</strong> rooms are very spacious <strong>and</strong> very<br />
clean. <strong>The</strong> staff is always friendly <strong>and</strong> smil<strong>in</strong>g.<br />
<strong>The</strong> pool is beautiful, as is the beach.”—<br />
TripAdvisor Member, Eas<strong>to</strong>n, Pa.<br />
Marriott <strong>Aruba</strong> Resort & Stellaris Cas<strong>in</strong>o,<br />
L.G. Smith Blvd. 101, Palm Beach,<br />
297 586 9000<br />
“Our room was very nice <strong>and</strong> newly<br />
redone. We fell <strong>in</strong> love with La Qu<strong>in</strong>ta<br />
Beach Resort! <strong>The</strong> employees couldn’t<br />
do enough for you. Granted, it is not one<br />
of the larger hotels on the beach with all<br />
activities present, but you actually start <strong>to</strong><br />
feel like a local <strong>and</strong> that <strong>this</strong> is your home.”—<br />
TripAdvisor Member, Brick, N.J.<br />
La Qu<strong>in</strong>ta Beach Resort, J.E. Irausqu<strong>in</strong> Blvd.<br />
228, Eagle Beach, 297 587 5010<br />
“Marriott’s <strong>Aruba</strong> Surf Club is a time<br />
share, but it’s more like a resort. <strong>The</strong> hotel<br />
employees have an ‘at-your-service’ attitude.<br />
<strong>The</strong>re was a never a problem with chairs or<br />
umbrellas or <strong>to</strong>wels. <strong>The</strong> rooms are br<strong>and</strong><br />
new; everyth<strong>in</strong>g is extremely clean <strong>and</strong> the<br />
hotel exceeded my expectations. Believe<br />
me, I am picky!”—TripAdvisor Member,<br />
New York, N.Y.<br />
Marriott’s <strong>Aruba</strong> Surf Club, 1L.G. Smith<br />
Blvd. 103, Palm Beach, 297 586 9000<br />
“We all had a blast at the Hyatt Regency<br />
<strong>Aruba</strong> Resort. Even though the rates are<br />
somewhat higher than some of the other<br />
hotels around, there is no comparison <strong>in</strong> the<br />
quality of the rooms, the attention <strong>and</strong> the<br />
overall atmosphere.”—TripAdvisor Member,<br />
Powell, Ohio<br />
Hyatt Regency <strong>Aruba</strong> Resort <strong>and</strong> Cas<strong>in</strong>o,<br />
J.E. Irausqu<strong>in</strong> Blvd. 85, Palm Beach,<br />
297 586 1234<br />
“We just returned from our honeymoon of a<br />
week at the Renaissance <strong>Aruba</strong> Resort &<br />
Cas<strong>in</strong>o. <strong>The</strong> private isl<strong>and</strong> is amaz<strong>in</strong>g. You<br />
are right by <strong>to</strong>wn, but feel a thous<strong>and</strong> miles<br />
away.”—TripAdvisor Member, Tust<strong>in</strong>, Calif.<br />
Renaissance <strong>Aruba</strong> Resort & Cas<strong>in</strong>o, L.G.<br />
Smith Blvd. 82, Oranjestad, 297 583 6000<br />
Have questions about <strong>Aruba</strong>? Get<br />
<strong>in</strong>sider advice from local experts <strong>in</strong> our<br />
forums. <strong>The</strong> majority of questions are<br />
answered with<strong>in</strong> 24 hours.<br />
Quiet studio apartments just an eightm<strong>in</strong>ute<br />
walk from Eagle Beach, the Sasaki<br />
Apartments f<strong>eat</strong>ure air condition<strong>in</strong>g <strong>and</strong><br />
a BBQ area. “An EXCELLENT value for<br />
a very expensive isl<strong>and</strong>.”—TripAdvisor<br />
Member, Newmarket, N.H.<br />
Sasaki Apartments, Bubali 143, Noord,<br />
297 587 7482<br />
“Rooms are gr<strong>eat</strong>. Restaurants are<br />
brilliant. Pool is really clean. We stayed at<br />
Occidental Gr<strong>and</strong> <strong>Aruba</strong> for ten days<br />
<strong>and</strong> had a fantastic time. <strong>The</strong> staff makes<br />
the place!”—TripAdvisor Member, United<br />
K<strong>in</strong>gdom<br />
Occidental Gr<strong>and</strong> <strong>Aruba</strong>, J.E. Irausqu<strong>in</strong> Blvd.<br />
83, Palm Beach, 297 586 4500<br />
tripadvisor.com 7
Where<br />
<strong>to</strong><br />
HIDDEN GEMS<br />
About<br />
STAY<br />
MVC Eagle Beach is “small <strong>in</strong> size, but<br />
big on comfort <strong>and</strong> cleanl<strong>in</strong>ess.” <strong>The</strong>re’s<br />
no pool, but it’s “only 100 feet from the<br />
beach. <strong>The</strong> staff were all friendly <strong>and</strong> always<br />
helpful. I would go back <strong>in</strong> a heartb<strong>eat</strong>.”<br />
—TripAdvisor Member, Ottawa<br />
MVC Eagle Beach, J.E. Irausqu<strong>in</strong> Blvd. 240,<br />
Oranjestad, 297 587 0110<br />
“I would go back <strong>in</strong> a<br />
heartb<strong>eat</strong>.”<br />
TRIPADVISOR<br />
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op<strong>in</strong>ions of 290,000 hotels <strong>and</strong> attractions. TripAdvisor.com is the most trusted source for travel recommendations about where <strong>to</strong> go, where<br />
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Edited/compiled by Kristyn Lak Miller<br />
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Call an Expedia Travel Specialist now 877 633 3716<br />
A 2008 Traveler’s Choice Award w<strong>in</strong>ner for<br />
Best Hidden Gem <strong>and</strong> Best Barga<strong>in</strong> <strong>in</strong> the<br />
Caribbean, Paradera Park is truly a f<strong>in</strong>d.<br />
“After a few days <strong>in</strong> the lush green oasis,<br />
with its amenities <strong>and</strong> ‘down home’ feel,<br />
we both hated <strong>to</strong> leave. <strong>The</strong> atmosphere is<br />
qua<strong>in</strong>t, friendly <strong>and</strong> secure—qualities you<br />
don’t always f<strong>in</strong>d <strong>in</strong> the larger hotels.”—<br />
TripAdvisor Member, New York<br />
Paradera Park Apartments <strong>Aruba</strong>,<br />
Paradera 203, Oranjestad, 297 582 3289<br />
“<strong>Aruba</strong> Surfside Mar<strong>in</strong>a is the <strong>best</strong>-kept<br />
secret <strong>in</strong> <strong>Aruba</strong>. It’s beautiful, right on the<br />
ocean <strong>and</strong> has only five rooms. Cont<strong>in</strong>ental<br />
breakfast served on your balcony every<br />
morn<strong>in</strong>g at whatever time you specify. Free<br />
<strong>in</strong>ternet <strong>in</strong> your room. It can’t be b<strong>eat</strong>.”—<br />
TripAdvisor Member, Wes<strong>to</strong>n, Fla.<br />
<strong>Aruba</strong> Surfside Mar<strong>in</strong>a, L.G. Smith Blvd. 7,<br />
Surfside Beach, Oranjestad, 297 583 0300<br />
tripadvisor.com 8