Your island of dreams
DID you know that Aruba has one of the highest number of repeat visitors in the Caribbean? The weather is definitely a strong factor. Situated below the hurricane belt, the island boasts dry sunshine all year round and doesn’t have an off season. There is also a cool breeze slipping in from the Atlantic Ocean.
And of course – since this is the Caribbean – the beaches are sublime. Aruba is slightly livelier than the other islands, and the beaches are full of sporty types.
Windsurfing in particular is very popular, thanks to the top-notch weather conditions. The pros even arrive in droves for the Hi-Winds Windsurfing Pro-Am Grand Prix World Cup that takes place every June. Andicuri and Dos Playa beaches are both very popular with surfers.
The landscape is also beautiful. Home to the Caribbean’s largest nature preserve, Arikok National Park, Aruba is nearly 20 per cent protected.
Covering 7907 acres, this park is home to numerous hiking trails that cover different types of terrain from gold mines to gentle hills.
The park is also the perfect ecosystem for some of Aruba’s indigenous wildlife – such as the Aruban burrowing owl (Shoco), Aruban rattlesnake, Aruban whiptail lizard, and the Aruban parakeet (Prikishi).
Foodies won’t be disappointed either, as Aruba boasts an eclectic culinary mix.
There are 250 restaurants that call the island home – with flavours ranging from Japanese, Italian, Caribbean and Colombian. The island also has a yearly local restaurant month in October.
Aruba doesn’t hold back when it comes to accommodation either. The island has a wide mix of hotel types to match all budgets and preferences. Self-catering, half-board, full-board and all-inclusive are all found there.
The island is also easy to get to. It is a popular port for many Caribbean and South American cruises, and flights run from several US airports, including New York and Atlanta. Plus, Aruba is home to modern roads and public transport, so it’s easy to find your way.
The best part? The friendly locals. If you’re having difficulty reaching a landmark, stop and ask someone – Arubians are more than happy to help.
If you want to experience Aruba for yourself, call Barrhead Travel’s Worldwide Team on 0141 242 1300.