expert expert ASK THE “The island’s unique selling
points are definitely the climate, white-sand beaches and its
people, whose warm, welcoming smiles greet visitors at every turn. Hospitality remains a
strongly ingrained tradition. Arubans gladly share their island and its unique culture, which is well displayed in
folkloric festivals, art exhibitions and during a very joyous
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Aruba offers crystal-clear waters; hiking in Arikok National Park; Baby Beach PICTURES: David Troeger/Jetlag Creative Studio; Myles McGuinness; Jeremy Peters
to the manicured resort stretches of Eagle Beach and Palm Beach. Hotels, palm trees and boutiques give way to cacti-covered hills, abandoned gold mines and colourful, traditional cunucu (country) houses. Keen walkers can conquer Hooiberg, a 165-metre-high peak forged by ancient volcanoes, in the island’s heartland. On a clear day, views extend all the way to Venezuela. In Arikok National Park, which covers one-fifth of the island, you’ll find secluded natural pools only accessible by foot, horse or 4x4, and wave-lashed limestone cliffs dramatically sculpted into natural bridges. Its caves contain 1,000-year-old artworks made by Caquetío Indians, the island’s first settlers. Reaching Aruba’s northernmost tip, a martian landscape of sand dunes awaits at Hudishibana.
Exploring all of this independently is a breeze, whether you’re hopping on public transport or renting a car or ATV. “There’s no need to feel confined to your hotel,” Sanju says. “That’s not only because of its size [just 21 miles long] and the modern infrastructure, but also because you feel safe. Arubans are so warm and hospitable – they’ll happily give you directions.”
LIFE’S A BEACH Even by Caribbean standards, Aruba is blessed when it comes to beaches – three of which featured in the 2022 Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards.
32 16 MARCH 2023 Gourmands can hop
between European, Asian and Caribbean flavours, thanks to the 90 nationalities who call this island home
Eagle Beach came in third, with the icing-sugar sands of Baby Beach and Arashi Beach making the top 25. Crucially, it also enjoys perfect sunbathing weather
year-round since the island sits outside the hurricane belt. “Even in the summer months, we have cooling trade winds, so it stays pleasant, whereas many other Caribbean destinations can get very humid,” Sanju explains. “I wouldn’t quite promise 365 days of sunshine, but let’s say 360, to be on the safe side!” Heading into the crystal-clear waters, scuba fans will be thrilled to find more than 10 wrecks to dive, from sunken freighters to aircraft. For those who prefer to stay on dry land, the
island’s big on beach tennis (think beach volleyball with paddles and an inflatable tennis ball) while reliable sea breezes create the ideal conditions for windsurfing and kiteboarding.
carnival season. Aruba is also a really great spot for sports and is one of the best places in the Caribbean for windsurfing or kiteboarding. Clients should visit Arikok National Park, which is home to cultural
heritage sites, including caves, original Indian rock drawings and unusual land formations. Renaissance Private Island is home to Aruba’s only private beaches, where flamingos
roam freely. Guests get free access to the island when staying at Renaissance Wild Creek Resort.”
Natalia Van Kirk, product manager, Caribtours
Aruba is popular with kitesurfers
travelweekly.co.uk
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