ARUBA LITTLE BLACK BOOK
Editor’s Note Sitting at my desk in either London or New York my mind occasionally wanders to a faraway island; a tropical idyll surrounded by turquoise waters. The sound of waves gently lapping on a powder soft shore soothes the soul and instantly puts me at peace. When I first visited Aruba, the visual juxtaposition of a dramatic arid interior fringed by quintessentially Caribbean beaches delighted me. Upon returning years later, I was pleased to re-discover an ebullient local culture, reflective of its Dutch roots yet representative of its place in the southern Caribbean. For my friends, family and more importantly, clients of Black Tomato, Aruba has continued to offer an experience that encapsulates that all important beach time with the opportunity to explore an island boasting national parks, an eclectic restaurant and beach bar scene and world class diving and snorkelling. In our new Little Black Book we will be taking you on a journey from downtown Oranjestad to Druif and Eagle Beach, uncovering the very best of Aruba; its culture, lifestyle and natural beauty. A book that will undoubtedly inspire and delight, have a read through and allow your own mind to wander to that tropical idyll. Hopefully, your feet will soon follow. Enjoy. Tom Marchant, Co-Founder Black Tomato
A R U BA LI TTLE B L AC K B O O K
THE EXPERTS IN CREATING TAILOR-MADE HOLIDAYS AND HONEYMOONS AROUND THE WORLD
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W E LCO M E TO A R U B A From mornings spent on sun-drenched sands to afternoons at sea exploring ship wrecks and vibrant coral reefs, Black Tomato is here to help create that perfect, all-encompassing Aruban itinerary to suit your every need. Award winning experts in tailor-made, experiential travel, our team of Caribbean experts will ensure that your time spent enjoying island life exceeds all your expectations. So, why wait? Let us transport you to this little slice of paradise. You won’t regret it.
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A R U BA LI TTLE B L AC K B O O K
NOT TO BE MISS
Archaeological Museum California Lighthouse
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DIVE SITES 2
Antilla Shipwreck Barcadera Reef Kantil Reef Renaissance Island Pla Skalahein Reef
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NOORD
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ORANJESTAD
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SANTA CRUZ
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ane Wrecks
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Carte Blanche Old Man and The Sea Papiamento White Modern Cuisine Zeerovers
SPAS ... 10 ... 19 ... 7 ... 4 ... 18
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HOTELS
BEACH BARS Bugaloe Charlie’s Bar Moomba Beach Bar and Restaurant Passions on the Beach
Arawak Spa Ritz-Carlton Spa Okeanos Spa Spa Del Sol
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Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort Bucuti Beach Resort Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa Ritz Carlton
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ARIKOK NATIONAL PARK
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SAN NICOLAS 20
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OUR TOP 4 ISLAND EXPERIENCES It might be a tiny island, but there’s a wealth of things to do in Aruba beyond the mandatory beach time. Here’s some of the best…
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A HIKE THROUGH ARIKOK PARK
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Covering a phenomenal 7907 acres on the east coast of Aruba, Arikok National Park is the island’s most famous natural wonder. The landscape here is as diverse as it is striking, with unusual volcanic land formations interwoven with a rugged coastline that contours into white sandy beaches. Keep a lookout for lizards and parakeets before venturing into one of the limestone caves where you’ll find authentic Arawak Indian drawings. Finish your hike by scaling Jamanto Hill and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the highest point on the island.
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A VISIT TO THE CALIFORNIA LIGHTHOUSE AT SUNSET
Named after the sunken ship ‘California’ that prompted its construction, this lighthouse rises a proud 55m off the shoreline, offering unparalleled 360 degree views over the glittering Caribbean Sea and surrounding landscape. The best time to visit, by far, is at sunset. Standing atop this old-timely watchtower you’ll be awe-struck by the warm red glow that descends upon the rocky coastline as the sun sinks below the horizon.
DIVING THE SHIPWRECKS
Aruba truly deserves its title as wreckdiving capital of the Caribbean, its coastal waters awash with diver-friendly wrecks ranging from planes and tugboats to cargo ships and historic military vessels. Weightlessly glide through warm crystalline waters as dappled beams of Caribbean sunlight illuminate the ocean floor beneath you. You’ll see the shoals of parrotfish, damselfish and queen angelfish that inhabit the multi-coloured coral reefs that have grown in and around these manmade machines, now forever bound to the seabed.
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A 4X4 ISLAND JEEP TOUR
There’s no better way to gauge the lay of the land than by heading out on an exciting 4X4 Jeep tour of the island. Take the wheel yourself or let your guide take control and simply kick back and gaze out at the impressive landscapes unfolding beneath those tyres. You can even customize your adventure, choosing from inland excursions, safaris and long drives over miles of pristine coastline. What’s more, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to hop out and take a closer look around as you visit some of Aruba’s famous historical sites and snorkel in the balmy Caribbean waters.
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O U R TO P 4 I S LA N D E X P E RI E N C E S
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BEST BEACHES Discover the true beauty of the Caribbean on one of our favourite Aruban beaches…
DRUIF BEACH
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A stunning stretch of sun-bleached sand lapped gently by turquoise seas along the west coast of the island, Druif Beach is famous for its calm waters and relaxed atmosphere. The super soft sand is a treat for your toes and the astounding calm of the sea here makes for some excellent swimming conditions. We say pack a picnic and spend the day basking in the silence and serenity of a beach that offers an escape from the busier parts of the island.
EAGLE BEACH Often referred to as one of Aruba’s most beautiful beaches (a deserved title, we think), Eagle Beach is the widest beach on the island and a true natural beauty. A haven for wildlife and home to some of the island’s iconic fofoti trees, Eagle Beach sees turtles come to lay their eggs here every year and if you’re there at the right time, watching the baby turtles hatch and make their mad dash for those azure waters is a spectacle not to be missed. A perfectly pristine paradise, Eagle Beach is the Caribbean island idyll you’ve been dreaming of. BLA CKTO M ATO.CO M
BEST BE AC HE S
MANGEL HALTO On the south east coast of Aruba, lying just south of the Spanish Lagoon, you’ll find Mangel Halto, a secluded beach boasting calm shallow waters, soft white sands and an incredible array of sea life. It’s great for a spot of snorkelling and when you dip that mask below the surface you can expect to see a complex eco system supporting anything from anemones and sea sponges to parrot fish and octopi. When you’re finished discovering Mangel Halto’s diverse marine life, soak up some rays on a beach that boasts a favourable position away from the crowds.
PALM BEACH Palm Beach is undoubtedly Aruba’s most famous beach. Recently voted by travellers as one of the best beaches in the world, this two mile stretch of perfection lies on the doorstep of a range of glamorous hotels, gourmet restaurants and boutique shops. There’s also a variety of water sports on offer, as well as some classic Caribbean beach bars that stand right on the sand. Despite being a popular part of the island, the crowds never feel overwhelming and if you’ve got kids, the array of activities on offer mean this is a perfect choice for those seeking a little more than a day soaking up that Caribbean sunshine.
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DIVE SITES YOU JUST CAN’T MISS Aruba
wrecks.
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an area that’s been on the divers’ map for decades and with so
much to see, we figured it’s about time you discovered for yourself what treasures lie below the glittering surface of
RENAISSANCE ISLAND PLANE WRECKS
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Aruba’s intriguing shores…
The two submerged aircraft wrecks lying close to Renaissance Island offer a spectacular and somewhat eerie underwater experience. Both planes are old drugs runners that now form part of a large artificial reef. The Beechcraft plane is a mere 14 feet below the surface and so offers the perfect dive for the novice adventurer, whilst the more experienced diver can enjoy the Convair craft that lies 40 feet deep. Both planes are in great condition and you can even enter the cockpit if you’re prepared to ward off the octopi and eels that now call these wrecks home.
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ARUBA’S CORAL REEFS
BEST D I V E S I T E S
As well as a plethora of incredible wrecks, the waters around Aruba boast an astounding selection of coral reefs that are home to a diverse array of marine life. Choose between Barcadera Reef, Kantil Reef, Skalahein Reef and many, many more (you get the picture, this place is a divers’ paradise) and you’re likely to see turtles, eels, lobsters, colourful reefs and even a graceful manta ray or two if you’re lucky. It just goes to show, the Caribbean isn’t all cocktails and sunshine, there’s plenty for an adventurer to enjoy, too.
ANTILLA WRECK
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The Antilla is the largest shipwreck to be found in the Caribbean. An old German freighter, the ship was built for trading between Germany and the Caribbean in 1939 and sank to its new home on the sea bed in 1940. It’s been a popular dive site ever since. Now covered in coral and sea sponges, you’re likely to see eels, turtles and lobsters in and around the wreck and at around 400 feet long, it’s quite a sight to behold.
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OUR FAVOURITE ISLAND EVENTS Aruba
is a vibrant little island that plays host to an eclectic array of events.
Here’s a taster of some of our favourites.
JANUARY
JANUARY - MARCH
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BETICO CROES DAY
CARNIVAL
Betico Croes Day pays tribute to Gilberto Francois ‘Bectico’ Croes, a statesman who helped to establish Aruba’s independence from the Dutch Kingdom back in the 1980’s. On this day, Arubans come together to celebrate this charismatic political activist through a series of folkloric shows, culinary festivals, sporting events and, wait for it… a Harley Davidson bike tour of the island. It’s an incredibly diverse and exciting event that pulses with a huge celebratory energy.
This three month long festival (yes, you read that right) sees thousands of bedazzled and elaborately costumed revellers take to the streets to join a series of processions and jump-ups (street parties) accompanied by thumping musical beats and colourfully decorated floats. An effervescent and over-the-top pageantry combining a range of individual events including the King and Queen Elections and the quirky Jouvert Morning pyjama party, this is one celebration not to be missed. Finishing with the colossal Grand Parade, the carnival culminates in the ritual burning of Momo, a life-sized effigy of the spirit of the Carnival. A fitting end to a wonderfully elaborate spectacle.
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O U R FAVO R I TE I S L AN D E VE N T S
MAY
SEPTEMBER
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SOUL BEACH FEST
FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL
Aruba’s most anticipated musical extravaganza takes place each May around Memorial Day Weekend, when you can expect five sun-drenched days of funky beats, catchy Caribbean rhythms and an electric atmosphere. As soul music lovers from across the world congregate on the Island, sleepy days are replaced with amped-up night clubs and relaxing by the sea is exchanged for spirited beach parties.
For two days in September each year, Aruba is inundated with the arrival of wine connoisseurs, food enthusiasts and art aficionados, all coming together to attend the much revered Food and Wine Festival. There’s wine and champagne tastings and a spectacular pastry extravaganza. The perfect opportunity to grab a taste (quite literally) of Caribbean culture.
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OUR CULINARY GUIDE TO ARUBA Eat your way around the island at our some ofour favourite gourmet hot spots…
WHITE MODERN CUISINE This stylish contemporary eatery, set in a swanky all-white dining area, is a creative revelation serving some ingeniously tailored modern dishes as well as some Aruban favourites. Proprietor Urvin Croes works alongside the new ‘Farm to Table’ movement ensuring that his produce is the purest and freshest around. Croes has even developed his own flavours of ice-cream, as well as a funky range of glamorously retro and contemporary cocktails.
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OLD MAN AND THE SEA Amidst softly whispering palm trees, dine beneath the stars on an exquisite menu that offers international food with an added Caribbean flare. We say try their colourful and refreshing signature dish of Papaya Seared Catch as you relax in the flickering light of your own candlelit Tiki hut. Gourmet dining in paradise, what could be better.
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A C U LI NA R Y G UI D E TO ARUB A
CARTE BLANCHE For the ultimate fine dining experience head to Carte Blanche, a world class restaurant located in the tropical gardens of the Bucuti Beach Resort. As well as sublime views across the pristine sands of Eagle Beach, you’ll enjoy a phenomenal tasting menu that’s prepared before your very eyes. Chef Dennis van Daatselaar created this unique restaurant with the tastes of each individual diner in mind, so sit back and get ready to be the star of your own unique dining experience.
ZEEROVERS An authentic seafood shack, Zeerovers prides itself on providing its guests with the freshest seafood, sourced straight from the idyllic Savaneta itself. Enjoy some light and zesty flavours as you tuck into anything from wahoo, snapper, barracuda, kingfish and some of the biggest shrimps you’ll ever see.
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PAPIAMENTO Hidden amongst lush tropical gardens is the 175 year old Aruban manor house that holds Papiamento. Whether you fancy dining al fresco amidst the twinkling tree lights or in one of the elegantly furnished rooms adorned with rare Dutch-style antiques, be sure to take a tour of the mansion and phenomenal wine cellar when you’re finished eating. Delicious and cultural - an all-round satiating experience.
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ARUBA’S BEST BEACH BARS In
our opinion there’s no better way to get into the
Caribbean spirit than Luckily enough, Aruba has plenty of which you can indulge this quintessential Caribbean fantasy. Here are a few of our favourites…
sipping a rum punch and gazing out to sea. waterside bars at
MOOMBA BEACH BAR Standing right on the sands of Eagle Beach, the tables and chairs here spread out all the way to the shoreline where you can kick back and enjoy views over the sparkling waters of the Caribbean Sea. Oh, and if you’re in the mood for a party, Moomba won’t disappoint. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays see live bands perform and happy hour runs between 6-7pm every day. Be sure to try the Tropical Treasure.
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CHARLIE’S BAR Founded by a Dutch couple back in 1941, Charlie’s has since become one of Aruba’s most iconic bars and one of the most popular in the Caribbean. The main draw for its clientele is the eclectic mix of artefacts that adorn the walls and ceilings of this quirky institution. Think old road signs, flags, pots and pans – just about anything really. The drinks are served ice cold and the menu offers some great fresh seafood.
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TH E BEST BE AC H B ARS
PASSIONS ON THE BEACH Passions on the Beach is one bar that’s really achieved the wow factor. Located right on the beach, this little gem is famed for its romantic sunset dinners and drinks. Feel the sand between your toes as you sip on a Caribbean Wave (Coconut rum, Blue Curaçao and Mango) and nibble on classic Aruban delicacies, while enjoying the deep orange hues of the beautiful sunsets.
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BUGALOE Right on the waters of Palm Beach, Bugaloe has the classic beach bar vibe down to a tee. Stop by for a snack and a cocktail when you need a break from the afternoon sunshine, but be sure to come back as night falls to catch some stunning views of the sunset from the bar’s deck. The atmosphere at Bugaloe is second to none on the island and the bar often plays host to some great live bands.
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ISLAND CULTURE We’ve
handpicked a few of our cultural highlights to help you make the most of
Aruba’s rich history and vibrant traditions…
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ORANJESTAD
Head to Aruba’s capital and get a feel for what life on this stunning little island is really about. A perfect blend of old and new, you’ll discover modern boutique shops alongside iconic colonial buildings. Spend a day walking these charming streets and explore buildings like Fort Zoutman and The Wilhelm III Tower for that slice of island history. If you’re in town on Tuesday evening, the weekly Bon Bini Festival will introduce you to folkloric dancers, local art and traditional music.
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I S LA ND C UL T URE
CARRUBIAN FESTIVAL Every Thursday in the heart of San Nicolas, you’ll find the spirit of this carnival lives on all year round through a variety of colourful parades, shows, live music performances and stalls selling delicious Caribbean cuisine. A must see for an authentic taste of true Aruban culture. 19
ARUBA’S ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM Aruba is an island with a deep archaeological heritage and this insightful museum was created specifically to house and exhibit an incredible array of artefacts that represent over five thousand years of Amerindian culture. With everything from pottery, tools, bone and glass on show, you’ll learn all about the history of the island from the very first human settlers over four thousand years ago to the discovery of gold on the island in the nineteenth century.
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ARUBA UNCOVERED
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SENSATIONAL SPAS It’s
time to don that robe and indulge in pure island relaxation at one of these exclusive island spas.
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S ENS A TI O N AL S PAS
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ARAWAK
Although you’re offered the choice between tranquil treatment room and an open air beach hut in which to enjoy your treatment, we’d recommend the beach hut every time; you’re in sunny Aruba after all. Once settled, opt for a classic massage and facial tailored to your specific needs. Alternatively, if you’re feeling experimental, go with one of Arawak’s fantastically quirky body scrubs and wraps. Our favourite was the chocolate body wrap, we even managed to fight the urge to lick it all off.
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SPA DEL SOL
Spa del Sol believes that ‘holiday feeling’ shouldn’t be a temporary sensation, and the extensive list of treatments on offer reflects this ideology. In one of their paradisiacal open air beach cabanas, choose from a sublime selection of hot stone and shiatsu massages, body scrubs and wraps followed by a gentle spell in their steam room or whirl pool. Spa del Sol even offers complimentary yoga sessions for those who truly want to connect mind, heart and soul.
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THE RITZ-CARLTON SPA
The Ritz Carlton Hotel happens to be home to the largest spa in the Caribbean, so it’s definitely worth spending at least a few hours here. Nourish your soul and awaken your senses in this serene sanctuary that focuses on rebalancing and revitalising both body and spirit. The spa menu includes massages, skin and body treatments that use only organic and pure ingredients. There’s even a state of the art fitness centre if you fancy partaking in an exercise class before or after treatments.
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OKEANOS SPA
This incredible retreat focuses on providing lasting health and wellness, and actively encourages you take some of those soothing island vibes home. As well as your usual treatments at the main spa, you’ll also have the opportunity to escape to Okeanos’ exclusive Spa Cove. Here you’ll discover island sophistication at its finest, with bespoke treatments performed outside and even a private wading area where you’ll feel like you’ve got a slice of the Caribbean Sea all to yourself.
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WILDLIFE Surrounded by waters rich in coral reefs and boasting some incredible landscapes, it’s little wonder that Aruba is a haven for wildlife. Here’s the low down on what you’ll find on land and at sea…
BIRD LIFE From burrowing owls to majestic birds of prey, Aruba is a bird watchers dream. The fresh water lagoons on the south eastern shores of Aruba are home to a myriad of tern species as well heron and egrets. Heading over to Renaissance Island, you’ll be dazzled by flocks of glamorous pink flamingos basking in the evening sun.
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REPTILES Aruba’s semi-arid climate is ideal for lizards and snakes that happily thrive amongst the cactus and brush plants of the desert terrain. In fact, half the species of lizard known to man call this island their home, including the bright turquoise kododo blauw and the pega pega, cousins of the gecko. Be sure to keep an eye out for the rare and well camouflaged cascabel rattlesnake and whiptail lizards wiggling their way through the dry shrubbery.
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WI LDL I F E
TURTLES From March to September bear witness to the breath-taking spectacle of hundreds of leatherback, hawksbill, loggerhead and green turtles making their way home to nest. Using the earth’s natural magnetic fields, these majestic creatures find their way back to Aruba’s golden shores to lay their precious eggs. Around two months later, Aruba’s beaches, especially Eagle Beach, will come alive with thousands of plucky baby turtles breaking through the surface of the sand to make their dash towards the shore.
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MARINE LIFE Plunge beneath the surface of the Caribbean Sea and discover incredible kaleidoscopic coral reefs inhabited by shoals of sleek rainbow runners, iridescent queen angelfish and damselfish flashing neon as they swim along. If you’re lucky you could spot the unusual beak-like mouth of the colourful parrotfish poking its head out from the coral carpet of anemones, gorgonians and sponges. Amidst deeper waters you’ll also find many octopi, moray eel and nurse sharks. An underwater world as beautiful as the island above.
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ARUBA’S BEST HOTELS Our top 4 luxury island boltholes in which to rest those sun kissed heads…
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A R U BA ’ S BE ST HOT E L S
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RITZ CARLTON
Overlooking miles of azure waters, the Ritz-Carlton is one of the newest luxury hotels to spring up along Palm Beach’s golden shores. The interior décor is light and fresh with elegant splashes of bright colour throughout. We loved that each room has huge glass doors that open out onto your own private balcony, blurring the lines between manmade luxury and stunning natural beauty. What’s more, the Ritz Carlton lays claim to the largest spa in the Caribbean. Impressive? We think so too. 2
AMSTERDAM MANOR BEACH RESORT
Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort is both practically and beautifully located on the island’s famous ‘Eagle Beach’. The hotel has adopted a bright contemporary decor in all its rooms, which reflects the spirit of the Caribbean, with dark woods and fresh colours, as well as the traditional Dutch architecture. Oozing character and charm, this is the perfect bolthole for an authentic stay in Aruba.
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MANCHEBO RESORT & SPA
Manchebo Resort has many things to boast about – daily yoga and pilates classes on the beach, a peaceful secluded atmosphere, friendly staff and a fantastic spa, to name a few – but its prime positioning directly on a flawless beach is probably the jewel in its crown. With 72 luxurious ocean and garden view rooms, this boutique resort is the perfect place to rest those sandy feet after a hard day spent catching rays and paddling in the ocean.
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BUCUTI BEACH RESORT
This peaceful adults-only resort is Aruba’s secret treasure, a base from which you can reach all the island’s best attractions. Decorated in a classically luxurious style, all rooms are spacious, chic and comfortable and come with private balconies where you can enjoy your own exclusive showing of the famously dazzling Aruban sunsets. Once the sun has gone down, be sure to retreat to a private cabana for your evening meal. It will be one of the most intimate dining experiences you’ll ever have.
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A R U BA LI TTLE B L AC K B O O K
BEFORE YOU GO The essential facts to know before you go.
WHEN TO GO Aruba’s high season runs between December and April and brings with it some of the best weather and social events of the year. Between May and November there’s a feeling of calm around the island as less tourists appear, yet temperatures remain consistent all year round. Ultimately, there’s no bad time to go to Aruba. As one of the only islands in the Caribbean that lacks a true rainy season, you’re virtually guaranteed sun, sand and serenity whichever month you go. 28
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BEF O R E YO U G O
GETTING THERE From the UK it’s an easy flight with KLM via Amsterdam. Direct flights from the US are available with a variety of carriers, including American Airlines. From New York, flight time is approximately four and a half hours.
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GETTING AROUND Cycling Due to Aruba’s small size and flat terrain it’s relatively easy to get around and there’s much joy to be had in renting a bicycle, motorcycle or moped and seeing the island up close and personal. By Car Taxis are a popular mode of transport but remember that fares are at a fixed rate. For the more independent traveller, cars are available to rent. We’d recommend getting your hands on a 4X4 vehicle as the terrain can become quite rugged in the more secluded areas of the island.
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