Dubbed ‘one happy island,’ this statement perfectly sums up the Dutch
Caribbean island of Aruba. Small in size, at just 19.6 miles long and six miles wide, what it lacks in space it more than makes up for in warmth and hospitality.
An idyllic destination for a
luxury holiday, Aruba is popular with couples, and thanks to its breathtakingly beautiful
beaches, it provides the perfect backdrop for a
honeymoon you’ll never forget.
Palm Beach is a hotspot for tourists, with a plethora of
luxurious hotels, restaurants and casinos taking up residence here. However, for a more unspoilt island experience, venture to
Eagle Beach where laid back, Caribbean living is epitomised. Expect thatched beach hangouts, rum-based cocktails and friendly locals ready to welcome you with open arms… and a piña colada.
Exploring this island is simple. Rent a car or bike to take in the sites at your leisure throughout your stay or jump in a taxi to see the vistas of the capital, Oranjestad. Here you’ll find Renaissance shopping mall, the marina and the Atlantis Submarine Expedition which takes you past one of the Caribbean’s largest shipwrecks.
Talking of shipwrecks, the coast of Aruba hosts a few… and even some airplane wrecks too. Discover the wonders of the deep, and meet a sea of marine life along the way with a host of
scuba and snorkel tours available. If you only endeavour on one, make sure it’s the Jolly Pirates for a morning of swashbuckling fun that’s suitable for all ages. Enjoy three snorkel stops, two in calmer waters, and a rope swing for a true Pirates of the Caribbean experience.
Alternatively, get up close and personal with creatures on land at
Flamingo Beach. Located on a private island just off the coast of Aruba, here you can meet the island’s famous pink residents who revel in human attention. A bucket-list activity for sure!
WINGED BOOTS WISDOM
Aruba experiences consistently warm weather year-round with an average of 28°C. Away from the Caribbean hurricane belt, the island sees some effects of tropical storms but this usually stops at short showers. For a quieter trip, avoid high season from mid-December to mid-April.