Aruba

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ARUBA - by Louise

In March 2023 British Airways launched their first twice weekly direct flight to Aruba (with a short touchdown in Antigua). In October I was lucky enough to be invited by the Aruba Tourist Board to experience all of what the Dutch Caribbean Island has to offer. 
Also known as ‘The Happy Island’ o   ne of the islands greatest assets is it’s people , whose warm welcoming smiles greet visitors at every turn. Another advantage being it’s location sitting outside of the hurricane belt it can be enjoyed all year round. It felt extremely safe, I would recommend hiring a car on arrival to experience all that the small yet vast 20 mile long and 6 mile wide island has to offer. 

Six people stand together on a beach at sunset. The sky is orange and the ocean is calm.

Eagle Beach has been rated one of the best beaches in the Caribbean boasting the widest beach in Aruba – showcasing clear, sparking turquoise waters, soft white sand and the islands renowned signature Fofoti Trees. For accommodation, there is something for everyone; from the authentic boutique Boardwalk Hotel which is situated on a former coconut plantation to the grand Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort in the heart of the capital Oranjestad, offering everything from a casino to complimentary access to it’s own private island. 20% of the island comprises of Arikok National Park which we were lucky enough to experience a Jeep Safari through. We were picked us up from our hotel for a thrilling two hour drive through the park stopping at Quadiriki Cave and Fontein Cave , as well as excellent views of Boca Prins. To see Aruba from a different perspective and for those into their marine life head to De Palm Pier for a Catamaran snorkelling cruise. On the afternoon tour we had two stops which were at the Antilla Shipwreck and Boca Catalina.

Beachfront tiki hut with boat; blue sky, white sand.

Good food is a big part of the Aruban culture, and it shows! For an unparalleled dining experience every trip to Aruba should include a meal at ‘Passions on the Beach’ , we enjoyed our final evening here which is perched on the award winning Eagle Beach, opposite Amsterdam Manor Hotel. Make sure you are here for sunset!

Tables set for dinner on a beach at sunset. Blue chairs, tiki torches, and golden light.

Fancy a visit to Aruba? How about combining it with another island, it would work really well as a twin-centre with Antigua, or perhaps one of the other Dutch Caribbean Islands, Bonaire or Curacao. There are also frequent direct flights to Aruba from Amsterdam, so a short flight from Norwich or Stansted with a connection in Amsterdam is also worth considering.

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