Where to Stay?

[LFM]

We're trying to decide on an island vacation for January 2007. Any thoughts on where to stay that won't cost a fortune?

[PhillyTom]

I can give you one suggestion on where NOT to stay.

Don't go to the Aruba Beach Resort, Spa and Casino.

It's in the high rise section of Aruba.

Room decor is very dated, bed not comfortable, room temps vary widely, and construction right next door. Much trash around pool area due to windy condition, yet no one bothers to pick up trash.

There are many other hotels in high rise area that looked a lot nicer.

[Carolrd]

There are many places that are really nice. The Bucuti is popular for honyemooners and couples.

 

The Low rise area, also has many places that might interest you, some are La Cabana, Amsterdam Manor and Paradise Beach Villas. These are on Eagle Beach.

 

The high rise area, Palm Beach, The Hyatt, Marriott (Ocean Club, Surf Club), the Raddisson, and many others. You might want to visit Aruba websites where you can get a ton of information. These are the more popular ones..

 

http://www.aruba-bb.com

http://www.visitaruba.com

http://www.aruba-travelguide.com

 

There are trip reports on each of the websites. Visit the message boards, you may be able to rent a time share from an owner at a very reasonable price.

 

Good luck,

 

Carol

[Arubalisa]

Our family just returned from an 8 night stay at the Radisson. Our 13th trip to the island and by far our best hotel stay yet! I have photos of some of the hotels. No matter where you choose to stay, as my 10 year old said, "Aruba is paradise!" :D

[Len3]

It might be a tad over our budget for winter of 2007. Any other thoughts? What islands are less expensive?

[Arubalisa]

Try the Holiday Inn Sunspree http://www.aruba.sunspreeresorts.com/

 

Should be a lot less expensive, beautiful pool area, nice big beach and they are presently renovating all their rooms. I don't recommend all inclusive in Aruba, but if you require it for whatever reason, get pricing on the Holiday Inn AIP and Tamarijn. Tam is AIP resort only. Another less expensive option for staying in Aruba, can be renting a timeshare. Only problem is most are weekend check-in/check-out which makes flights harder to get and more expensive. Also check pricing for the first 2 weeks of January vs. last 2 weeks of January. Carnival events in Aruba this year begin on Feb. 4. This can drive up hotel rates too for the last week of January.

 

Other places I can think of that would be cheaper would be Jamaica or Dominican Republic. Depends a lot where you are flying from. If Jet Blue flies out of your closest airport, look into some of their Caribeean destinations, same with Spirit Air.