Take this quiz, then get ready to pack your bags for the beach vacation of a lifetime at the island best suited for you.
Mostly Cs: Aim for Aruba
Photo courtesy of Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort
Active, free-spirited Aruba is not your postcard Caribbean island, lush with palm trees and bougainvillea. Instead it’s surprisingly arid, with a landscape that recalls Arizona — that is, if the state were buffeted by tradewinds and surrounded by sparkling blue sea. Which all adds up to Aruba’s unique appeal (coupled with the fact that the isle is located outside of the hurricane zone). Lack of rain keeps the typical tropical foliage down but gives it more sunny days than anywhere else in the Caribbean, making this a year-round spot for fun. The island also draws a diverse crowd, from pro windsurfers and kiteboarders drawn by the near-constant tradewinds, to groups of party-seekers lured by frequent air and hotel specials to international families enticed by the island’s safe reputation. The latter is also why it has the highest return-guest rate in the Caribbean. Getting around is a breeze, either by taxi, public bus or the island’s own unique Kunukoo party buses that circuit among Oranjestad and the hotel zones. But don’t just stick to the beaten path; take a tour to the unpopulated east coast for striking rock formations and endless views.
Where to Stay: Aruba hotels are parceled into three main areas: downtown Oranjestad, marked by colorful Dutch-Caribbean architecture, shopping and a 24/7 casino; Palm Beach, with big brand name properties like Hyatt, Radisson and Marriott; and our pick, Eagle Beach, where resorts don’t rise above three stories tall. It’s home to one of Aruba’s most romantic hotels, Bucuti & Tara Beach Resorts. This eco-conscious, 104-room resort only accepts guests aged 18 and over, making it ideal for honeymooners. There’s not a bad room on property, but the Tara Suites are best positioned, with cushy bedrooms that face the ocean and separate living areas. Reserve a table in a beachfront cabana or sign up for their unique dine-around program that lets you sample various restaurants on and off property (room rates start at $331 a night and include breakfast; bucuti.com).
