triptiz

The Complete Guide to Vacation Rentals in Aruba by Jennifer Jongema

Aruba Vacation Rentals or VRBO’s have quite a few benefits and are an especially attractive option for the budget-conscious traveler.

Staying at an Aruba VRBO has become increasingly popular in recent years and for good reason! Who doesn’t want to enjoy the country they’re visiting like a local? The term “home away from home” very accurately describes the essence of this vacationing style.

Aruba Vacation Rentals or VRBO’s (Vacation Rental by Owner Aruba) have quite a few benefits and are an especially attractive option for the budget-conscious traveler. VRBOs allow you to decide when dinnertime comes (midnight snacks are always available when you have your own kitchen), allow you to enjoy more space than you would in a traditional hotel, and offer some flexible opportunities that you wouldn’t find from a traditional hotel or resort.

It’s no wonder that web like Airbnb, VRBO, Flipkey, and HomeAway get an overwhelming number of visitors every day!

Aruba: The Caribbean’s Best VRBO Destination

Aruba is considered the best Caribbean island destination for Caribbean VRBOs because it offers so many options, and with a huge variety of things to do!

For example, not only is Aruba a great family vacation destination, but it’s also the most romantic Caribbean island; and don’t forget that you can still make use of some of Aruba’s unique wedding packages and honeymoon packages on your alternative VRBO Aruba vacation!

If you fancy relaxing vacations, you can take advantage of one of the many sunny days and layout on the white sandy beautiful beaches. And if you are all about adventure, there is a bustling watersports scene here as well! Not to mention the many great restaurants to satisfy just about any palate!

Why Stay at an Aruba Vacation Rental?

Staying at a vacation rental by owner in Aruba will make you view the island from a different, yet beautiful perspective. Renting a VRBO for your Aruban vacation will allow you to fully customize your trip! Explore the hidden gems that Aruba has to offer on your own terms by living among the locals and letting them show you what One Happy Island means to them!

VRBO’s have become a staple here in sunny Aruba in recent years, but if you’re wondering where to stay, then this guide will show you a few ways to find your perfect Aruba vacation rental and relax like a local. After all, for many of our readers, Aruba is your second home!

Beachfront Rentals

Ever wish you could teleport to the beach from the comfort of your home? Staying at a beach front rental in Aruba is the next best thing!

Prestige Vacations

^{Prestige Vacations}

If you are the type of vacation planner who likes a wide variety of luxury properties to choose from, then Aruba Prestige Vacations is the perfect vacation rental portal for you! From deluxe condominiums in the sky to wonderfully polished townhouses, Aruba Prestige Vacations will have a great option for you. Here is a taste of what beachfront rentals Prestige Rentals Aruba has to offer:

1. Divine Leisure – BC255. This two-bedroom condo at the Oceania resort, currently the only beachfront residential condominium resort in Aruba, is a little piece of heaven located just steps from the famous Eagle Beach. It has 2 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen and amazing ocean view from the 2 balconies. This exquisitely furnished condo is the perfect serene setting to enhance leisure, relaxation, and vacation

2. Oasis Beach View OS07. The well-appointed three-bedroom condo is tastefully furnished to maximize sleeping capacity whilst providing you with a very spacious, modern and relaxing environment. The condo is located at the Oasis Residences. Come together with friends and family without forfeiting your privacy!

Home Rentals

There’s nothing quite as comforting as returning home after an action-packed day out. Home rentals are perfect for the traveling family or the traveler who need just a little more space. Find your own temporary abode on our Private Homes and Villas page or on the Aruba Listings website.

Aruba Listings

Home Rentals

Aruba Listings

Gold Coast Aruba is located in the lovely neighborhood of Malmok and can be considered a Caribbean vacation rental oasis. Gold Coast Aruba is a beautiful and safe residential community spacious villas, private townhomes, and condos. As soon as you enter the Gold Coast property, you will feel right at home. No stone was left unturned when the property was being decorated. Flowers and lush trees decorate every corner, and when you’re ready to trade in your green views for blue ones, you are just minutes away from Malmok and Arashi Beach! These are three lovely Gold Coast Aruba properties.

1. Diamante 126B. This 2-bedroom deluxe condo delivers an intimate yet luxurious place to stay Have you been dreaming of taking your family on a quiet tropical vacation that feels like home, but better? This condo with comfortable king and queen beds is just what your family needs!

2. Diamante 165. Traveling with the extended family? Rent this 3-bedroom vacation villa! There is enough space for the grandparents, the in-laws, and your best friend! With 2.5 bathrooms, the entire family will be able to get ready in no time in the morning. After a long day of exploring the island, unwind on your patio and have a family barbeque by the pool.

3. Diamante 95. A 2-bedroom townhome that just screams romantic getaway! Take your significant other on a vacation they will never forget by renting this cozy yet spacious townhome. Once engulfed in the romantic ambiance of this vacation rental, you will not want to leave!

Tierra del Sol Resort & Golf

Tierra del Sol Resort and Golf is a unique Aruba vacation rental resort, boasting an array of low-rise apartments, free-standing villas, estate homes and an 18 hole golf course with clubhouse, gym, and spa! These spacious and comfortable properties are all located on a lovely spacious property just minutes away from the beach. At Tierra del Sol, you get a taste of ‘Aruban Living’ with all the accommodations you expect while being on vacation! Some suggestions are listed below:

1. Trinitaria 7. This 2-bedroom villa features a luxurious master suite with a welcoming comfortable bed and an en-suite bathroom. This villa has two private terraces that look over the beautiful north coast. Trinitaria 7 is great for intimate friend groups, and families. It is fully equipped, so you’ll have everything you need to feel right at home!

2. Wayaca 28D. This spacious 3-bedroom property has a large terrace looking out over the Northern Caribbean Sea and the 10^th hole of the golf course. You can also walk up to the rooftop terrace and enjoy the lovely island views. The condo accommodates up to 6 people, get your travel group together!

3. Oleander 27. This 2-bedroom villa has its own back yard complete with a swimming pool. It is perfectly positioned to allow you to enjoy the beautiful views of the golf course while swimming or having dinner. There is no way you won’t be enamored with Aruba’s beauty after your stay at Oleander 27.

Apartment Rentals

When renting an apartment in Aruba expect comfort and convenience, but most importantly, expect to never want to leave!

Aruba Quality Apartments & Suites

Aruba Quality Apartments & Suites has been around for over 20 years! When it comes to making you feel at home, they have all the necessary experience. Prevent packing on the vacation pounds by visiting the fitness room, or make a splash in the lovely freshwater pool. If you like to end your days by reading a good book, Aruba Quality Apartments & Suites has an extensive library outside the lobby! Here’s what they have to offer:

1. Studio apartments. When staying at a cozily decorated studio apartment, you have the choice of 1 queen size bed or 2 separate twin beds. There is plenty of space to bring a third guest with you, as there is an extra rollaway bed available. Whether you like showing off your cooking skills in the kitchen, or you prefer to go out for dinner, this accommodation is perfect for hosting small families and friend groups.

2. Loft apartments. These spacious apartments hold a maximum of 4 guests. Get the family together for a cozy night in, or invite your significant other and gaze at the stars from the balcony together. The loft apartments are designed to make you feel right at home!

3. Suites. The roomy suites have plenty of space for you to enjoy your relaxing vacation. With the option of 2 queen size beds, 1 king size bed, or 2 twin size beds, you have what you need to get a good night’s sleep after a long day of exploring Aruba.

Sasaki Apartments

Sasaki Apartments is a pleasant complex of 24 studio apartments. The complex is conveniently located in the residential area of Bubali, at walking distance from Eagle Beach, and right next to the Super Food Plaza store. Nightlife, casinos, shopping malls and great restaurants are just a short drive away! These are the studios Sasaki Apartments has to offer:

1. Standard Studio. This warmly designed apartment is perfect for a family getaway. Going out and exploring the island is a must while vacationing in Aruba, but coming home to a comfortable apartment is just as important.

2. Small Studio. This room is perfect for you if you are in need of a quick getaway. Traveling on business? No problem! There is a telephone and free Wi-Fi available so you can get all your work done with time to spare to take a dip in the pool!

Punto di Oro Apartments

Located in a quiet area are some of Aruba’s most peaceful apartments. Punto di Oro Apartments is just a five-minute drive to some of Aruba’s beautiful beaches. Drive for another 5 minutes and you will find Aruba’s restaurant and nightlife area in Palm Beach! Punto di Oro is the perfect getaway spot for those who value tranquility but are not afraid to have fun! Below are the types of apartments they offer.

1. One Bedroom Apartment. This 1-bedroom apartment has a 1 queen size bed and can accommodate one extra person with a sofa bed. 1 Bedroom apartments are located on the ground floor and second floor. Don’t forget to take some time to soak up the sun on your spacious private veranda.

2. One-Bedroom Deluxe. The apartment features a king size bed and an extra sofa-bed in the living room for an extra guest. The living and kitchen area is spacious and designed with Caribbean lifestyle in mind.

3. Two-Bedroom Apartment. This apartment has 2 queen size beds and a sofa-bed in the living room. The 2-bedroom apartment has a large porch in the front, a spacious veranda in the back, and a roomy living and kitchen area. It is the perfect place to stay for those who enjoy a night indoors, but can’t leave Aruba without having enjoyed some time in the sun.

Urban Rentals

Aruba may be a small island, but that does not take away that each area has its own special unique charm. Different parts of the island offer different sorts of excitement and adventure, so you’ll want to consider what you’re looking to do on your trip before booking your accommodations. The following vacation rentals in Aruba are conveniently located for easy access to the city.

Bubali Bliss Studios

Bubali Bliss Studios is conveniently located at walking distance from the stunningly turquoise waters of one of Aruba’s most popular beaches, Eagle beach. Bubali Bliss is the perfect location for those eager to experience an intimate tropical retreat. Check out their options below!

1. Studio. The studios are brand new and feature a full kitchen, comfortable bed, modern bathroom and are fully air-conditioned. The kitchen comes with a full sized fridge, a four pit stove, a microwave, and coffee machine for those early mornings The studios are decorated in a fresh, retro-Caribbean style.

2. Studio Deluxe. Deluxe Studios are based on an open space layout with a dividing wall to separate the bedroom from the living area. The bedroom comes with a Queen sized bed. The Deluxe Studio is air-conditioned and has a fully equipped kitchen. French doors connect your living room to a beautiful private patio with space for outdoor dining.

3. One-bedroom Apartment. This is most spacious of the Bubali Bliss apartments. It features a closed off and fully air-conditioned bedroom with king size or queen size bed. The living area has a sofa bed and a comfortable dining area which connects to a furnished private patio.

Paradera Park

If you are looking for an intimate oasis in Aruba with boutique charm and the convenience of an easily accessible location, Paradera Park is a great option for you. The award-winning resort is commended for its unobtrusive service, immaculate property, and a wide range of amenities. It is a hidden gem for vacationers or business travelers. Find an option that suits you.

1. One-bedroom Suite. The private self-contained 1-bedroom suite is tucked away in a secluded part of the beautiful garden. It features with a spacious lounge leading to a private porch, and a separate bedroom with 2 double beds. Both the kitchen and bathroom boast modern décor.

2. Royal One-bedroom Suite. This luxurious 1-bedroom suite is a comfortable 2-story apartment overlooking the pool area and the garden. The balcony and a veranda are ideal for al fresco dining. The bedroom is spacious and has 2 double beds double bed. There is a large lounge with comfortable seating arrangement, as well as an open kitchen and breakfast bar. This luxurious suite allows a lot of natural light to come in, and the charming décor with tropical print fabrics and furniture make for a great Caribbean atmosphere.

3. Two-bedroom Suite. The lovely 2-bedroom suite is fully self-contained and very spacious, making them ideal for families. Suites located on the ground floor feature a spacious private veranda, and those situated on the second floor have a nice balcony, both offer seating arrangements for those who enjoy having their meals under the blue Aruban sky. The suite has a double bed in each room, a lounge and a spacious separate kitchen.

4. Deluxe Studio. These comfortable fully equipped Deluxe Studio rooms are spacious and offer cheerful Caribbean décor. Located either on the ground floor with direct access to the lush tropical garden, or on the first floor with private balcony overlooking the garden and pool area.

Condo Rentals

If you are thinking of renting a condo for your Aruban vacation, you are probably looking for a rental with sufficient space and privacy without sacrificing the luxurious setting that hotels often offer. Condo rentals offer the best of both worlds!

The aforementioned Prestige Vacations boasts some quality condos on their website too.

1. Divi Golf Garden DR01. This one-bedroom condo is located at the Divi Village Golf & Beach Resort, home to The Residences – a luxury collection of resort condominiums and The Links – a beautifully landscaped 9-hole golf course and golf training facility. The course surrounds an exclusive clubhouse with two gourmet restaurants and a water view lounge. The condo is very close to the pristine Druif Beach and has 1 bedroom, 2 bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a private patio with BBQ-grill, full hotel services, and a spectacular view of the golf course.

Palm Aruba Condos

Palm Aruba Condos is located in the heart of Palm Beach and is just a few steps away from Aruba’s most beautiful beaches. Come to Palm Aruba Condos if you are ready for your well-deserved luxurious vacation. Here are some suggestions of where to stay:

1. The Majestic Palm. The Majestic Palm Condo features 1 large master bedroom with a king or- queen size bed. Start your morning off right with a cup of coffee on your very own balcony! Cooking homemade meals is a breeze with the fully equipped modern kitchen. There is even a private outside patio to enjoy them on!

2. The Sugar Palm. This condo has 2 bedrooms and 2 beautiful marble bathrooms. The kitchen is equipped with top of the line Whirlpool appliances. When it’s time for the sun to set a step outside on 1 of 2 large balconies, or your very own outside patio and enjoy the show!

3. The Sunset Palm. The 3-bedroom, the 3-bathroom condo is a top pick for groups, with a maximum capacity of 8 guests. The perfect condo for a family get-together as there is a nice outdoor area with high-quality furniture to relax and catch up; an integral part of island life.

Blue Residences

The Blue Residences condominiums are located along the beautiful Eagle Beach. It has all the amenities you may want from a vacation home, along with some bonus features. You can give the fitness center a visit or lounge in the infinity pool; and when it’s time to stock the fridge, you are just a few steps away from the on-property To Go Deli & Mini Market. Another great benefit of making Blue Residences your home is the restaurant. The Kitchen Table by White is a culinary delight.

1. Deluxe Ocean View. Imagine how beautiful the sunrise would look from this ocean view room. You will want to spend your entire vacation on the balcony; a perfect place for a romantic getaway. The spacious rental features a king bed and an en-suite bathroom designed for ultimate comfort.

2. Two-Bedroom Suite. This large 2-bedroom suite is great for families, as it accommodates up to 6 people. Treat your loved ones to a luxurious vacation. Enjoy a fully equipped kitchen, roomy living quarters and a spectacular ocean view balcony.

3. Three-Bedroom Penthouse. This lavish penthouse consists of two levels, both with spectacular ocean views. The upper level has a fully equipped kitchen, a living and dining room, a full bathroom and an ocean view balcony with a Jacuzzi! The lower level features the bedrooms, with their private bathrooms. This condo accommodates up to 8 people, so feel free to bring the entire family.

Timeshare Rentals

Timeshares are another extremely popular option for the community of travelers visiting Aruba. Once you’ve found your happy place, timeshares allow you to make sure you can visit it again and again!

Want to try that timeshare experience for yourself? You can, because Aruba.com has a special section on the forum dedicated to timeshare owners who rent out their weeks and share their experiences!

Airbnb & FlipKey Rentals

An easy way to find your perfect Caribbean vacation rental is through one of the increasingly popular Airbnb and FlipKey websites.

On these sites, you can easily search for, view and book VRBO properties. You can connect with the owners for questions about the properties, which helps provide security and peace of mind. You can search on Reservetic to find and compare cheap flight, car rental and cruise.

Aruba is the first island in the Caribbean to form an official partnership with Airbnb. Tax collection is now regulated and high quality standards for these accommodations are ensured. This facilitates and promotes VRBO vacations in Aruba.

The popular saying goes “there’s no place like home”. That may be true, but there is definitely no place like a home in Aruba. Book your stay at an Aruba vacation rental today!

Source: https://www.aruba.com/us/blog/the-complete-guide-to-vacation-rentals-in-aruba

The Best Family Holiday Vacation Destination- Aruba Holidays by Jane Vermaas

During the Holidays the real magic happens here … on the One Happy Island! Read all about how we celebrate Christmas and where to go for New Year’s.

Eat your heart out Disneyland, because during the Holidays the real magic happens here … on the One Happy Island! Bring your entire family down here to enjoy some of the best beaches of the Caribbean, gorgeous weather all year round and all the festivities Aruba Holidays have to offer! Read all about how we celebrate Christmas and where to go for New Year’s.

Irrespective of the Holidays, Aruba is one of the best family destinations in the Caribbean. Our naturally calm sea, safe drinking water and ease of travel (direct flights from most US airports) are some of the main reasons families choose Aruba as their vacation destinations for generations on end. Then throw in our kid-friendly resorts, unique family activities and our One Happy Family program and you have the complete family vacation package that will keep your kids entertained and active throughout their entire Aruba vacation.

Saint Nicholas Day

Dec 5^th

Starting off the holiday month of December is the Sinterklaas celebration on the 5^th, an old Dutch celebration tradition that the Arubans have inherited and celebrate every year. Similar to Santa Claus, Sinterklaas is a white bearded man and with his helpers he spoils Aruban children with sweets, candies and presents. Whereas the US the tradition tells children to put up their stockings from the fireplace, the Dutch tradition tells kids to put their shoe outside on the porch, filled with grass and a bowl of water for Amerigo, Sinterklaas’s horse.

Hannukah

Dec 6^th – Dec 14^th

The majority of Arubans are Roman Catholics but there are many other religions practiced and celebrated here, such as the Jewish holiday Hannukah. The synagogue and Jewish community center Beth Israel in downtown Oranjestad and the Chabad center in Noord have many religious and cultural activities surrounding this 8 day celebration.

Sunday the 13^th of December at 6 pm there are two Hannukah parties taking place that are open to the public:

Hanukkah Community Celebration at Paseo Herencia: Songs, rikudim, and hanukkah donuts Guest singer: Yaacov, from Costa Rica and local musicians. For more information: http://www.bethisraelaruba.com/
Let it Glow Hannukah party at Playa Linda Plaza: Live music, donuts, arts ‘n crafts and more. For more information visit: http://www.jewisharuba.com/

Christmas

Dec 25^th – Dec 26^th (Boxing Day)

Some say that the best time to visit Aruba is during the holiday season. And with good reason! Aruba turns into a magical place during the month of December when not only all the roundabouts on the island get decorated with Christmas lights, virtually every Aruban decorates their own house with these festive lights.

An Aruban Christmas consists out of elaborate family dinners with Ayacas and Christmas ham, going to mass on Christmas Eve and enjoying a performance or two of a local Gaita band- our local version of Christmas carols – at shopping malls and other island businesses as well as in private residences.

What should definitely be on your list is a visit to the Cas di Luz, or House of Lights in Seroe Preto San Nicolas which is a main family attraction during the Holidays. On top of the hill you will see a beautiful display of the nativity scene in full ornament. Visit the Local Holidays page to read all about our local traditions.

New Year’s

Dec 31^st – January 1^st

Celebrating the New Years on Aruba is an experience of a lifetime! Throughout the day on December 31^st, hotels and businesses’ around the island celebrate a yearly tradition of lighting up a long string of firecrackers called ‘Pagara’, laid out on the road that ends with a Big Bang (pun intended)! The biggest and most popular pagaras can be seen at the Renaissance Aruba Resort and the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino.

At the stroke of midnight, make sure you are somewhere high up, like your hotel balcony, roof, the California Lighthouse or for the more adventurous at heart the Hooiberg – a high alone standing hill in the middle of Aruba of which you better climb the 600 steps sober, I repeat sober! Why so high? Because at the turn of the year all of Aruba turns into a pandemonium of fireworks lighting up the entire sky! Sip some Ponche Crema (Aruban Eggnog) and usher in the New Year Aruba style!

New year ’s beach parties are plentiful as well! The Ritz Carlton Aruba is famous for its annual New Year’s beach party and the largest fireworks show of the hotel strip. Other venues that are hot that evening are Moomba Beach, Bugaloe Beach Bar and there are also local DJ’s at the Fisherman’s Huts.

No matter where you go, as long as you are outside on the beach enjoying the amazing fireworks together with friends and family; you will have a sensational New Years celebration!

Search and compare cheap flight to Aruba.

Source

The Aruba Butterfly Farm And Fun Facts For Kids

The Butterfly Farm is a great way to see butterflies of all shapes, colors, and sizes.

Elephants are the largest land animal and cheetahs are by far the fastest (with Ostriches coming in at second place!), but one of the most interesting animals in the world is the Butterfly. Scientists estimate that there are between 15,000 and 20,000 different species of butterfly. With so many species and millions in the world, there are bound to be some interesting and fun facts about butterflies.

For example, did you know butterflies have an exoskeleton? Unlike humans, elephants and cheetahs whose bones are inside their bodies; butterflies and most other insects have skeletons on the outside of their body. Or, did you know that a butterflies flight speed is 12 miles per hour but they cannot fly if their body temperature is less than 86 degrees? But perhaps the most interesting aspect of a butterfly is its life cycle aka metamorphosis.

Whistler and I had an awesome time learning all about Butterflies at The Butterfly Farm on our recent mommy-son vacation in Aruba sponsored by The Aruba Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino. Open 7 days a week (8.30 am – 4.30pm) with hundreds of exotic butterflies from all around the world – including South America, South East Asia, China, Africa etc – the Butterfly Farm is a great way to see butterflies of all shapes, colors and sizes. The guided tour provides easy to understand educational information and and up close and personal look at butterflies in all of their stages of metamorphosis. All the boys LOVED it and I’m pretty sure all the adults learned something they didn’t know before 🙂

The Metamorphosis of a Butterfly

The Egg

The first stage in a butterflies life is the egg. It is a very small, cylindrical shaped object laid by the female butterfly. Using a special type of glue, the female attaches this egg to the leaf or stem on a plant. Once hatched, the caterpillar will use this plant as food. Butterflies will take nectar (food) from a wide variety of flowers, but female butterflies will only lay their eggs on the leaves of the specific plant that the caterpillar will eat!

Did You Know…

Humans can only taste with their mouths. But did you know, before they lay their eggs, many butterflies actually taste with their feet to determine if the plant is right for their caterpillars food!

The Caterpillar

Once hatched, the caterpillar (or larva) begins the stage of eating and growth. This hungry caterpillar may be stripped or patched and some even have hairs. Each caterpillar’s markings are suited for the type of plant they live on and their predators. They truly as masters of disguise as they confuse and warn other animals as they happily do nothing but eat. As the caterpillar grows it sheds its skin four times to keep up with it’s growth spurts. Once the caterpillar is fully grown, they will seek out the perfect twig or leaf where they shed their outside layer of skin and form a Chrysalis.

The Monarch Butterfly Caterpillar’s bright colors says he doesn’t taste very good (left picture).The Zebra Longwing Butterfly’s black spikes help keep him from becoming dinner (right picture).

The Pupa

As a Pupa, a caterpillar is hard at work during its transformation stage inside its chrysalis. It’s during this time that the adult insect begins to form. During our tour, we were shown many different types of butterfly chrysalis and as you can see, each is as unique as the caterpillar that made it!

After emerging from its chrysalis an adult waits a few hours for its wings to fill with blood and dry, before flying for the first time. We were lucky enough to arrive at a time were many butterflies were just about ready to take their first flight. A new Monarch Butterfly took his first flight and landed right on Whistler (that’s a sign of good luck!).

The Adult Butterfly

As an adult, the butterfly is not only colorful but it’s now reproductive and mobile. During this stage, an adult butterfly will court, mate and lay its eggs. Depending on the species, an adult butterfly will live in this stage anywhere between one week and one year. While most stay local to where they were born, the Monarch Butterfly makes an incredible 2,000-mile journey from the US to Mexico and back over 6 generations to breed!

Fun Fact:

Butterflies range in size from a tiny 1/8 inch to a huge almost 12 inches.

Everything we saw and learned was so interesting, but I have to admit that the most incredible sighting of the day was actually not a butterfly at all. Behold the stunning Atlas Moth – the largest moth in the world with a 10″ wingspan. Unfortunately, this guy doesn’t “look” so big, but he is actually sitting on HUGE tropical leaves that are at least 18″ big. (Man I wish I would have gotten a picture with my head next to this!)

The body was the size of a small rat. I wanted to try and hold it, but was honestly a little scared as his body alone was bigger than my hand! Check out the edges of his wings – what do you see? If you said “a snake’s head” you’d be right! It’s great to ward off predators, although honestly, what would eat this monster of a moth anyway?

We loved this experience so much, Whistler was sad when it was time to leave. Luckily I remembered a product I had seen on Amazon a while back – The Live Butterfly Garden where you can witness the butterfly life cycle up close with your kids. I just ordered mine (it’s on sale for $11.75!) and can’t wait to show it to Whistler.

A HUGE thank you to the Aruba Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino for making it possible for my son and I to experience the Aruba Butterfly Farm in person. As usual, all opinions and thoughts are my own!

About the Author: Jeana S

Research lab rat turned travel mom, Jeana S writes about gadgets, tech, entertainment, weddings and of course, travel. When she’s not using her powers for social good, she enjoys photography, cooking and playing robots with her son. On occasion, you may also find her crocheting cute things to hide in Ben’s underwear drawer.

Book your trip to Aruba now: Cheap flight to Aruba.

Read the original article on http://www.surfandsunshine.com/aruba-butterfly-farm-butterfly-facts-for-kids/

12 Reasons Why Aruba is the Best Caribbean Island Vacation Destination

Arguably, a good time can be had anywhere in the Caribbean, but there are several reasons why Aruba stands out from the crowd!

We all know Aruba is beautiful, and a trip to Aruba is a guaranteed good time, but what makes Aruba the best Caribbean to visit?

Arguably, a good time can be had anywhere in the Caribbean, but there are several reasons why Aruba stands out from the crowd! To avoid writing an entire book on the charms of Aruba, this list will be kept concise. Here are 12 reasons why Aruba is the best destination for your next Caribbean vacation.

1. The Aruban People

One of the main reasons why people are drawn to this small Southern Caribbean island is the people. The Aruban people are known for having a natural sense of hospitality instilled in them. Expect a friendly “bon dia” (good morning), when you encounter a local on your morning jog. And while you’re at it, don’t be afraid to ask for directions, or advice, because you’ll quickly find someone that is willing to help you out.

1. The Aruban People

The Aruban community is very diverse. Many Arubans are generally of mixed ancestry, claiming Caquetio Indian, African and European roots, but it doesn’t end there. A vast number of Arubans originate from South America, other Caribbean islands, China, the Philippines, and about seventeen African nations! Not only does this guarantee that you will find a friend that speaks your language, but it also makes for a very tolerant and accepting culture.

2. Safety

When deciding on the location for your next Caribbean vacation, safety should definitely be used as an important deciding factor. Aruba is considered one of the safest islands in the entire Caribbean. In terms of personal safety, the local community is accepting of visitors from all over the world, making our locals far more hospitable than those of some other destinations. And on macro safety, Aruba lays south of the hurricane belt, so our chances of getting hit by one are slim to none.

3. Their Drinking Water

It is no secret that many people travel to Aruba to escape the cold rainy days they have back home. The island is known to have great weather, but did you know Aruba has the most sunny days of any island in the entire Caribbean? Visiting Aruba is your best bet for ensuring great weather during your Caribbean vacation. But we don’t just get more sunny days, we get more comfortable and better weather as well. Here in Aruba, we’ve been blessed with the perfect combination of the radiant sun and the famous trade winds, which help keep you feeling cool year round.

4. The Great Weather

5. Our Top Rated Beaches

Aruba’s pristine white sand beaches are some of the most beautiful beaches not just in the Caribbean, but in the entire world. Don’t believe us? Check out our video proof! Whether you’re in the mood to lie out and soak up the sun on the world-renown Eagle Beach, or if you’re a thrill seeker wanting to ride the crystal waves at Andicuri or Dos Playa, Aruba has a beach that will appeal to everyone.

6. Their Rich Culture

Many fans of Aruba are unaware of the rich cultural presence here on the island. Art and heritage are integral parts of what shaped Aruba into the wonderful destination it is today. A big part of the cultural development here in Aruba is through its local art. The best way to explore art on the island is visiting events such as: Korteweg, the Cadushi Festival, and the Aruba Art Fair.

Visit Aruba in January for the largest cultural event of the year, Aruba Carnival. This event dates all the way back to 1954 when parades were a lot smaller, but just as much fun as they are today, more than 62 years later.

Other can’t-miss cultural happenings are: the Dande Festival, the weekly Bon Bini Festival, and the Carubbian Festival.

If you are in Aruba during the month of March, be sure to celebrate our National Anthem and Flag Day with us on March 18. The events held on this day, really give visitors an insight into the local customs and delicious local cuisine!

7. Ease of Travel

Traveling to Aruba is easy! The Aruba Airport has more than 100 direct flights weekly from 14 North US gateways and one-stop connections from almost every city in the USA and Canada. Aruba also has international flights from a selection of European and Latin American countries!

Not only is it easy to get to Aruba, if you are traveling with the US Dollars, but you also do not need to change your currency. It doesn’t get much more convenient than that!

8. Their Infrastructure

The well-established infrastructure makes it easy to travel through all areas of Aruba. All towns are accessible by car which gives visitors the freedom to explore Aruba in its entirety! Public transportation in the form of buses and taxis are also readily available on the island.

9. The Wide Variety of Accommodations

There is a home away from home available for every type of traveler! Aruba boasts a wide variety of hotels and resorts, apartments and condos, private homes and villas, and timeshares. Whether you are a loyal timeshare owner, or you like to visit a different place to stay every time, Aruba has the perfect accommodation for you.

10. Cruise Friendly

If you are visiting Aruba on a Caribbean cruise, you’re in luck! The Port of Aruba is centrally located in downtown Oranjestad, so dining and shopping are at walking distance! Explore the capital of Aruba while picking up unique souvenirs along the way, or schedule a tour right from your ship. We assure you that you will be craving more Aruba as soon as you get back on your ship!

11. Fun & Adventure

You will never have to worry about having nothing to do during your Aruban vacation (unless doing nothing is what you came here for)! There are fun activities for visitors of all ages. Explore Aruban fauna at The Butterfly Farm, and Philip’s Animal Garden. Make a splash at the many water sports centers along the beaches. Discover the Arikok National Park to see a side of Aruba you have never encountered before. The fun truly doesn’t end. Who expected there to be so much to do on such a small island?

12. The Food

As previously mentioned, the Aruban community is a very culturally diverse group of people. One of the benefits of this is that we have a variety of restaurants serving food from all over the world. Caribbean, Colombian, Dutch, Italian. You name it, chances are, we serve it! Dining has never been this fun and exciting. If you are visiting Aruba during the Eat Local restaurant week, make sure to take advantage of the special prices offered by participating restaurants.

There’s a reason we’re called the “One Happy Island”, and it’s because we truly are the best destination in the Caribbean. We’re sure you are eager to book your trip to the One happy island right now, and we don’t blame you! Bring your significant other, the kids, or come alone. A trip to Aruba is certainly worth experiencing.

Source

Aruba: Eat and Drink

Full bellies, happy hearts

In Aruba’s restaurants, you’ll find fresh Mahi-mahi, red snapper, and barracuda pulled from the sea and rubbed with creole seasoning. In upscale restaurants and small local gems, stew pots bubble with rice, meats, and rich Latin and African flavors.

All in the same day, you can indulge in traditional Dutch pancakes, sip ice-cold Aruba Aribas by the sea, and pile your plate high with pastechi—with a dash of spice from our local hot pepper sauce, pica di papaya. Around our tables, everyone is welcome.

In Aruba, we savor the small things. It’s why an Aruban getaway is one of the most unique foodie vacations in the Caribbean. Whether it’s a Balashi beer between friends or the catch of the day pulled fresh from the sea, Aruba culinary travel is as diverse as it is delicious. And with over 250 restaurants to choose from, it’s easy to find something that fit your appetite.

Here, you can indulge in traditional dishes inspired by our diverse heritage: from Dutch bitterballen to rich curry goat and dishes from Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. Or, satisfy your hunger for unique food travel with our inspired takes on modern French or Italian cuisine.

On our island, we embrace culinary vacations and foodies with open arms and full plates – with local favorites and international flavors. Explore our culinary vacation packages to find that one that fills your belly, and your heart, with happiness.

There are many way to find cheap online ticket, the best one i use for my trip is Reservetic. They compare online sites and bring you the best price for your trip.

Source