Perfect climate, friendly people, heavenly beaches, a vibrant night life and an atmosphere as romantic as you could want; all contribute to the charms of Aruba. And there is no better time to visit the island than in the months of January and February, when Aruba bursts into flames with the rhythm of its Carnival.
Aruba is a destination that is always a favorite with travelers. Just the mention of the name makes people smile as it calls to mind a country with scenery from paradise, a party atmosphere and a warm welcome wherever you go. “Bonbini” is what the island residents tell visitors, which is their way of welcoming you in their Creole dialect (Papiamento), sharing the richness not just of their tourism but also their culture, which each year attracts an average of 800,000 tourists, most of them from the United States.
Exploring Aruba is always a fascinating adventure whichever month of the year you pick, as the island has been blessed with a unique climate that is not even affected by the Caribbean hurricane season. So while you can visit any time, our recommendation is that you visit during Carnival, so you can appreciate the very best of the island’s cultural expression.
The best way to experience the magic of Aruba is to take a trip round the island on a motorbike (and even better, on a Harley-Davidson that are available for rent on the island), jeep or beach buggy, or join a tour of the island’s attractions organized by one of the specialist operators. So you can visit the museums in the capital of Oranjestad; take in the city’s business district where you can find the most exclusive fashion, perfume and jewelry brands; enjoy the Butterfly Farm and the unique experience of watching one of these creatures emerging from its chrysalis; or the Ostrich Farm which offers visitors the chance to feed one of the friendly creatures.
Back at your hotel you mustn’t miss the music, dancing and typical costumes of the Carnival processions and parades organized by the island’s authorities. This is the perfect opportunity to mix with the Arubans, who fall over themselves in a celebration of joy and hope. Here age makes no difference. Adults and children alike have fun, following the frenetic leadership of the instruments playing the Calypso, one of Aruba’s indigenous musical styles.
After a day of partying, the traveler has two choices. Tireless adrenalin addicts can join one of the many safaris that visit the Arikok Desert. Make sure you are prepared because this is a day out dominated by the fierce heat of the sun as you visit Alta Vista Chapel, the California Lighthouse, the ruins of the Bushiribana gold mine, the Guadirikiri caves and the big waves that are perfect for lovers of surfing.
However, if you are of a quieter disposition, you can choose to experience the relaxation of the golf course. For the experts there is the 18 holes Tierra del Sol golf club, laid out so as to provide constant views of the Caribbean. Those who are just starting out in their relationship with the game of golf can choose the Divi Village Golf & Beach Resort, which offers the opportunity to practice your strokes on a virtual golf course before trying out the real thing on the club’s 9 holes course.
Another relaxing alternative is to choose one of the spas that can be found all over Aruba. Pretty much every resort on the island has a spa designed for enhancing the wellbeing of their visitors. For example, the Spa del Sol follows the trend for Balinese style installations, with the unique opportunity to put yourself in the hands of experts in pampering the body and the spirit while enjoying the immensity of the blue ocean laid out in front of the cabañas. Another amazing option is the Mandara Spa at the Radisson Hotel, offering visitors a wide variety of treatments based on the most exclusive products available in the market today. One recommendation: enjoy the special couple’s plans – you won’t regret it.
Now you are more relaxed, it’s time to get back to the frenzy that is Carnival, but this time for night activities. These include gastronomic tastings, choosing the Carnival Queen, dance contests and the burning of King Momo, one of the festival’s symbolic figures. You still have energy for more? Perfect: finish the trip trying your luck in one of the island’s many casinos. Hotels give you 5 dollars free to make your first bet. Everything after that is down to luck. Here there is no time limit as the casinos are open 24 hours a day.
Why not round off your visit to Aruba with a trip along one of the many white sand beaches, bathed by the crystal clear waters of the peaceful ocean, perfect for snorkeling. You can also take a trip on the ocean in one of the tourist boats that will take you to perfect spots for diving among sunken treasures. Back on the surface you will be sure to find a smiling Aruban face welcoming you, convinced that having enjoyed the marvels of their island, you will be sure to come back for another visit just as many tourists do each year.
www.aruba.com
