How to Find Hotels in Aruba

Caribbean destinations are visited by millions of tourists every year, and Aruba remain one of the most popular tropical hotspots in the world. Families, lovers, and good friends make their way here every year to soak up Aruba's famous sun and sand.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A computer with an Internet connection for booking accommodations online

Know Your Destination

1. Learn a little history. Aruba gained fame during the 17th century, when it was heavily colonized by the Dutch, who took over after initial Spanish colonization.

2. Be aware the Aruba's security and foreign affairs are still controlled by the Netherlands. Aruba once bid for independence, but remains part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

3. Realize that Aruba's tourist infrastructure supports nearly a million visitors every year, and the country's entire economy has been based upon it.

4. Know that Aruba is largely flat and has no natural rivers. Its beaches are famed for their incredibly white sand.

Learn About Local Transportation

5. Arrive in Aruba via air. Most people arrive via chartered airlines, although commercial flights on American Airlines and Aruba Airlines make regular departures from New York and Miami.

6. Arrive via Europe on the major Dutch airline, KLM, via Amsterdam.

7. Arrive in Aruba on the various daily flights from Central and South America.

8. Select among readily available buses and taxis, or a rental car from Queen Beatrix Airport to get from place to place on the island.

Select Your Accommodations

9. To book accommodations, contact Aruba Tourism Authority at (800) TO-ARUBA or visit their Web site (see Resources below).

10. Time your vacation accordingly. Prices for accommodations in Aruba vary more depending upon season than upon the location. Low season is roughly from mid-April to mid-December, while high season is from mid-December to mid-April. Prices between the two seasons can vary by $200 or more.

11. Consider the convenience factor staying at one of Aruba's many resorts. These often offer all-inclusive packages with flight, accommodations, meals and more all paid for before you arrive.

12. Consider booking accommodations through a travel agent, which can save you money in the long run. They'll have a better idea as to the kind of amenities you'll need during your stay.

Uncover Interesting Local Information

13. Be aware that Aruba has its own version of Carnival, which begins in February. It lasts for several weeks and includes everything from dancing to children's parades.

14. Check ahead of time for local festivals. Several professional water competitions are held in Aruba throughout the year, and draw watersport enthusiasts from around the world.

Tips & Warnings

• As of January, 2007, passports are required for US citizens traveling between the US and the Caribbean by air. In January, 2008, the requirement will extend to include those traveling by land or sea.
• You must be at least 21 years old to rent a car and drive in Aruba.
• The sunshine on Aruba is nearly constant, but even if it were cloudy, you face the very real threat of serious sunburn. Pay close attention to your exposure and take adequate precautions by wearing at least 25 SPF sun protection.