Aruba ranks at the top among the best island getaways in the Caribbean, home to some of the most authentic local vacation and cuisine experiences north of the equator. Perfect year-round sunny weather, white sand beaches, pristine lean waters, and a ton of Aruban culture-inspired activities beckon tourists from all over the globe. Here are some of the best reasons why Aruba travel should be the next destination for a holiday.
Pristine beaches
Aruba is one of the top spots in the Caribbean, home to the cleanest and most beautiful beaches spanning the length of the island. Tourists flock to the Eagle Beach for picturesque backgrounds and stunning views. Eagle beach is also home to hundreds of thousands of sea turtles that hatch on the shore and make their way to the sea. Do not forget Aruba’s infamous Black Stone beach, the only spot on the north side of the island that has black sand dunes and shores. If you are a beach lover, this tropical island offers the perfect mix of sightseeing and excursion activities from shore to deep inside the island archipelago.
Amazing activities around the island
Plan a day at the Arikok National Park to explore a unique set of trails that cover nearly 20% of the island. Or check out the amazing sand dunes at Boca Prins Beach another day. You can even visit Arashi beach for a day of snorkeling in the beautiful shallow waters or go deep sea diving to discover shipwrecks. Alternatively, you can plan a fun day at the Flamingo beach, one of the capital city’s most popular private touristy experiences. The beach is part of the Renaissance Aruba Resort, so it is not open to the public unless you buy the day exclusive day pass costing $125/person. But given the experience, this activity is worth the cost. Other iconic spots around the island include the Bubali Bird Sanctuary, Alto Vista Chapel, and California Lighthouse, all situated around the capital city of Oranjestad.
Unique outdoor adventures
Aruba, unlike any other exotic beach destination, also boasts some exciting outdoor activities apart from spending a day at the beach. Travel to the easternmost shore of the island to spend a day at Aruba’s Natural Bridges, a set of 7 rock formations. If you are exploring the place with your significant other, then definitely take out a couple of hours to detour to the Tunnel of Love, a 300-foot-long tunnel that takes you inside winding caves and rock formations. The entrance of this tunnel is shaped like a heart, so it’s a place for all you romantics to check out, and maybe even plan a dream proposal. Book a guided tour of the Quadirikiri Cave located inside the Arikok National Park for an amazing afternoon of exploration filled with rock drawing, stalactites, and stalagmites. If you prefer ancient sites and places of historical significance, check out the ruins of Bushiribana gold Mill or plan a hike to Ayo Rock formations and the Casibari Boulders.
Visit the capital city of Oranjestad
Oranjestad is one of the main tourist attractions on the island, known for its colorful architecture and vibrant design. It is the main port town where major cruise lines park for a couple of days enroute to other destinations. Here you must make your way to the nearest streetcar depot as part of the first experience in the capital city. The streetcar experience is certainly a must activity as the slow-moving gondola rides across town with multiple photo opportunities featuring some amazing European architecture built along the streets. Oranjestad is where you will find the National Archaeological Museum featuring unique collections dating back from the 19th century to 2500 BCE. You can also check out the unique butterfly farm home to hundreds of species on the outskirts. The capital city also has a vibrant nightlife scene featuring a unique folkloric Aruban dance festival called Bon Bini, celebrated every Tuesday night.
Aruban culture
Aruba is a rich treasure trove of cultural and historical attractions, with most of the major locations on the island famous for significant art and music exhibitions. From museums to galleries, you have every opportunity to explore a completely new aspect of the old and modern cultural impact. The island also plays host to one of the most ethnically diverse population groups that promote a warm and welcoming culture. Tourists will feel right at home here with the locals, who are always happy to help and guide them with friendly referrals and directions. A diverse population group also means you’ll have multiple opportunities to explore and participate in the varied interpretations of local culture and celebrations.
Favorable weather
Another plus point of planning a holiday in the remote island group is the amazing year-round weather. This Caribbean climate featuring perfectly sunny days and clear skies boasts a tolerable 80° temperature that is perfect for lazing on the beach with excursions planned for the evening and nighttime. Experts suggest planning an Aruba travel between April and August to avoid the peak rush and plan a reasonably priced holiday.
Planning a vacation in a cozy cabin nestled in the midst of nature’s embrace is a dream for many people. However, with numerous options available, choosing the perfect rental cabin can take time and effort. Several factors must be considered, from location and amenities to size and budget. However, if you know what you are looking for, it will be easier to pick the best cabin rental that suits your needs and preferences.
When booking a cabin rental, one of the critical things to consider is the location. It will set the mood right for your complete vacation experience. When planning your vacation destination, consider the proximity of the rental cabin to the activities you plan to participate in or spots you plan to travel to. Look at the top spots for skiing, lakes, hiking trails, and cultural landmarks. Alternatively, if you prefer a secluded cabin, look for a location surrounded by wilderness and serenity. In addition to the basics, take into account the accessibility of the location and how it will fit into your itinerary.
The next thing you want to keep in mind is the size and capacity of the rental cabin. Ensure the options you are looking at can comfortably accommodate the travel party. Check the number of baths and beds offered and compare it to the available common areas. If you enjoy the great outdoors, consider the outdoor space that comes with the cabin. When traveling with a large group, opt for cabin rentals with spacious interiors and outdoor space. Alternatively, you can look for a range of cabins located together that will allow you all to spend time with other group members while also enjoying your privacy. Meanwhile, a smaller cabin with intimate settings may be more suitable if you want a cozy retreat for a romantic getaway.
Evaluate the amenities and facilities the cabin rental provides to enhance your vacation experience. Determine if necessary features such as a fully equipped kitchen, heating or air conditioning, Wi-Fi connectivity, and parking are available. Depending on your preferences, look for additional amenities like hot tubs, fireplaces, outdoor grills, game rooms, or access to community pools or recreational facilities. These amenities can add convenience, comfort, and entertainment to your stay.
Establishing a budget is crucial when choosing a cabin rental. Determine how much you can spend on accommodation, keeping in mind other expenses such as transportation, dining, and activities. Research various cabin rentals within your budget range and compare prices, considering seasonal variations and any additional fees or charges. Consider the value offered by each cabin rental, weighing the amenities, location, and overall experience against the cost.
Before finalizing your decision, read reviews and testimonials from previous guests. These insights provide valuable information about the cabin rental’s quality, cleanliness, the host’s or management’s responsiveness, and overall customer satisfaction. Certain platforms or dedicated cabin rental websites often have tabs for reviews and ratings to help you make an informed choice. Pay attention to positive and negative reviews and feedback to understand the cabin rental’s strengths and weaknesses.
If you travel with furry companions, ensure the cabin rental allows pets. Some cabin rentals may have specific pet policies, restrictions, or additional fees. Check if the surrounding area offers pet-friendly attractions, trails, or parks, and inquire about any pet amenities provided, such as pet beds, bowls, or fenced yards. Choosing a pet-friendly cabin rental ensures that your entire family, including your beloved pets, can enjoy a memorable vacation together.
Prioritize safety and accessibility when selecting a cabin rental. Consider factors such as smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and security measures. If you or any members of your travel party have mobility restrictions, look for cabins with wheelchair-accessible entrances, ground-floor bedrooms, and bathroom facilities designed for accessibility. Additionally, inquire about the proximity of healthcare facilities or emergency services in case of unforeseen circumstances.
Reliable customer support is invaluable when renting a cabin. Ensure the host or management company is responsive and readily available to address any issues or concerns during your stay. Prompt communication, clear instructions, and a helpful attitude provide a seamless and stress-free vacation experience. Check if the cabin rental provides a dedicated contact person or a 24/7 helpline to assist you throughout your stay.
One should never ignore the possibility of changes in travel plans. Review the cabin rental’s flexibility and cancellation policy before making a reservation. Understand the terms and conditions of reservation changes, cancellations, and associated fees. Opting for a cabin rental with a flexible policy gives you peace of mind, knowing that you can adjust your itinerary if needed.
Lastly, consider your preferences and vacation goals when choosing a cabin rental. Reflect on the ambiance, style, and surroundings that resonate with you. Whether you prefer a rustic log cabin, a modern mountain retreat, or a lakeside cottage, select a cabin rental that aligns with your ideal vacation concept. Remember, this is your getaway, and finding a cabin that captures your imagination and creates lasting memories is more important than anything else.
Planning a family vacation is quite challenging. You must consider every member’s travel and adventure expectations and try to accommodate as much as possible in a single trip. Whether for domestic travel or past international experiences, from flights to hotel booking and dining options, you must consider every alternative available. This is where you’ll benefit from booking an all-inclusive vacation package. Here are some valuable tips to secure the best family vacation packages worldwide.
Decide on the type of vacation
Before comparing and searching for deals, decide on the type of vacation you want. Does your itinerary involve a lot of driving or flying? If it’s both, will you be able to cover a lot of places considering layovers and on-road delays? How many hours can you drive without taking frequent breaks? Does your budget allow for multiple rentals in every new destination? Can you shift from one location to the other during check-in and check-out times? And does the plan involve a lot of resort and beach fun or inland adventures like amusement and water parks? All these are essential factors to consider before booking an ambitious travel itinerary.
Book well in advance
Cruises, expeditions, and exclusive tours are all popular family vacation packages that get picked up when booking partners update the details. You don’t want to wait till the last moment, especially when you’re planning a vacation for the entire family. Also, booking in the off-season is a good idea to avail better discounts and deals. Family vacation packages are generally booked to fill a specific volume for the travel partner. So peak season, the prices will be bumped up to accommodate guests. However, these deals will be cheaper in the off-season to encourage filling in the empty spots.
Book with specific partners
Planning a family vacation means you’ll have to consider every member’s wish and find a way to accommodate their plans in the single travel itinerary. This can be pretty challenging if you simply browse for deals and packages with limited travel options. Specific websites and booking partners guarantee all-inclusive vacation offers for a reasonable price. For example, Expedia offers a unique booking filter called ‘Traveler Experience’ where you can select vacations based on experiences at the location. CheapTickets is another alternative offering excellent budget packages with a comprehensive travel itinerary and all-inclusive price. You can filter our results further by using meta-search engines like Momondo to select property styles and locate kid-friendly vacation deals. Many airlines also offer family vacation packages as part of a booking deal with flights and hotels included. The devil is in the detail of booking when using these websites.
Compare all-inclusive family vacation packages
When you travel with the family, it’s better to consider all-inclusive packages. All-inclusive packages cover your hotel stay, food, and a preplanned itinerary with a flexible schedule you can confirm in advance. With an all-inclusive deal, you’ll know upfront how much money will be spent per person. So, managing both budget and expectations at the location becomes easier. Once you pick a comfortable plan, allocating extra funds for other trip expenses is easy. All-inclusive deals further allow you to plan multiple excursions and activities to enjoy at the location in advance. For example, if you are traveling to the beach, resorts offer various water sporting adventures as part of the package. If the purpose of the trip is to explore new places, book tour packages offered as add-ons. With an all-inclusive deal, you’ll also get a good sense of the amenities included and excluded from the price.
Make travel goals
Even if you have a fixed itinerary to follow, it never hurts to have some fun travel goals to make the vacation more memorable. For example, traveling to a new destination, you can plan to try one local delicacy every single day. Or try to learn some essential conversation starters in the local language to discover more you can explore. Plan to try a new activity that you might have a fear of and have been postponing for the right time to pick. Traveling with family members, you’ll have a lot of audiences to encourage and boost your morale by trying the new activity – like paragliding or snorkeling, depending on the location. Plan and agree to mutual travel goals that everybody can enjoy as part of the trip. Planning together allows you maximum room to decide on activities and excursions that nobody will resist or get bored of on the trip.
Have realistic expectations
Package deals, even the ones that mention all-inclusive, will limit a certain number of activities and experiences. But there is no sure way to tell if the booking will be worth the price. Some experiences will be memorable, but you and your family should also be prepared for the few dull moments that make up the day. Hiccups in transportation and amenities are all part and parcel of any well-planned vacation, as there are some factors that you just can’t control. So get ready for some spontaneous change in plans, and even if it costs a bit more, the memories you make with family and friends are worth the money spent well. So always have realistic expectations and keep an open mind to enjoy the most of your trip.