If you are a frequent visitor to the Caribbean, you may have made an oh-so-very-brief stopover at Aruba. Our recommendation, though, is that you spend more time on this beautiful island and really soak up the sun… literally. Aruba is unique compared to the other islands in the Caribbean region on two accounts. For one thing, this 21 mile long island is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and is subjected to its laws; whereas the other places here are independent island nations with autonomous governments. Secondly, Aruba has an incredible dry and arid climate, which basically translates to a year round of sunny weather. The white sand beaches here are absolutely magnificent but the best places to visit are Baby Beach and Eagle Beach – that is, if you can find a spot during the peak seasons.
If you want to visit Aruba, there are two ways to get here. One, you can make Aruba part of your Caribbean cruise itinerary; or better yet, make it the last stop of your trip. Two, you can just hop on a plane and get here directly. We do strongly recommend you call ahead for hotel reservations and such. Aruba can get quite crowded with holiday revelers, and it might be quite difficult to find decent lodgings if you come unannounced. Besides, by knowing what your options are, you can actually choose someplace nice to stay without breaking the bank. You might be surprised at how inexpensive some of the 5-star hotels here during the off-peak tourist seasons.
Hitching a ride here in the island is really no problem. Although taxi cabs are infrequent, there are numerous buses you can get on at the basest of prices. If you prefer a more comfortable touring atmosphere, you can always hire a private car to get you about the island, also at very affordable rates. If you can get a local to take you about the islands, you may want to ask about the best places to sample the local cuisine because Aruba can certainly deliver … and what gastronomical delights there are to be sampled in this island.
Naturally enough, there are international cuisines to be had, especially if you want something that reminds you of home. Our suggestion, however, is that you try the local cuisine. According to many Caribbean travelers, Aruba serves up the best food in the region… and nothing, we repeat, nothing beats fresh caught fare prepared and grilled right before you. Here are our top recommendations: Aqua Grill, Bistro M. and Mathilde, Driftwood Authentic Aruban Seafood, Mango’s, Marandi, Matthew’s Beachside Restaurant, Pago Pago, Pinchos Grill and Bar, the Pirate’s Nest, Sunset Grille and the Waterfront Crab House.
Okay, we must admit if you offered us a smoking piece of medium-rare, charcoal-grilled T-bone steak that hangs over the side of a plate and barely offers room for the buttered peas and the mashed taters, (plus an order of draft that is big enough to drown a horse), we would not say no. In fact, we will even say yes to you several times. If you are in the mood for such a mouth watering fare, we suggest you, your friends, your family and everyone else you know head on out to El Gaucho for some of the best Argentine meat there is. The wonderful thing is that this eating establishment is family oriented, so you can take your time with your meals while the kiddies plant their little tootsies on the game deck. Still, if you find this steakhouse a bit too crowded, especially on weekends, there are other great alternatives like the French Steakhouse, the Hooters, L.G. Smith’s Steak and Chop House, Texas de Brazil, the Tortuga Bar and Grill and the Yemanja Woodfired Grill.
