WHY ARUBA SHOULD BE YOUR NEXT VACATION DESTINATION

If the motto “One Happy Island” excites and resonates with you, then you would certainly fall in love with the beautiful Caribbean island, Aruba.  Known for its beautiful beaches, Dutch influences, rich history, delicious foods, and welcoming people, Aruba should be on your radar for your next vacation!

Aruba is the most revisited destination in the Caribbean and after spending four days there, I can understand why. Personally, my vacation preference is a combination of relaxation and adventure. Yes I know that’s a contradiction, but Aruba is actually an island full of contradictions. Visitors can find turquoise water right alongside cacti in the desert, and find relaxation by the beautiful beaches and water sports and other outdoor activities for those seeking adventures.

“Arriving in Aruba, you’re sure to be greeted by friendly, helpful, and hospitable locals who are eager to show you around the One happy island and help you get into the vacation groove.”

I love that there’s something on the island for every type of traveler and you honestly can’t beat the wonderful weather and climate, especially if you’re looking for a winter getaway! Everybody on the island is friendly and truly embodies the happiness motto. As a native New Yorker, it’s great to be greeted with such open arms and sunshine and take that same positive energy back home.

WHERE YOU SHOULD STAY IN ARUBA

If you’re already in Aruba, why would you not stay in the most luxurious, 5 star accommodation, Ritz Carlton? We all know that Ritz Carlton, a recognizable and well respected name, offers the best, high quality service for its guests. I had the wonderful privilege to stay at this amazing hotel and I have now become a loyal fan of the brand.

Located along Aruba’s Palm Beach, guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean from every room. The hotel’s location and setting is perfect for those seeking a nice vacation because you can watch the beautiful sunsets at the beach, swim in the two ocean front pools and participate in water activities including sailing, kayaking, jet-skiing and diving.

The hotel also offers a spa that includes 13 treatment rooms, three relaxation areas and a curated boutique, a fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment, 24-hour casino with live entertainment, and six dining options including Madero Latin Grill, Divi Sushi Bar & Lounge, renowned BLT Steak restaurant, Ritual Coffee Culture and Solanio (for lunch) and Casa Nonna (dinner).

I have to rave about the gelato that is offered at Ritual Coffee Culture because the Ferrero Rocher flavor is definitely a must try! The dinner at Casa Nonna is also delicious so make sure you order the pasta and save room for dessert because the TORTA DI CIOCCOLATO, which contains Chocolate Olive Oil Mousse, Devil’s Food Cake, and Amaretto Crunch Gelato is to die for!

I have no complaints at the Ritz Carlton because everything from the service to the food to the hospitality was beyond perfection. It’s difficult to even consider staying at another accommodation after receiving the service I had throughout my stay!

WHERE YOU SHOULD EAT IN ARUBA

Aside from the dining offered at the Ritz Carlton, I highly recommend visiting the below cafes/ restaurants while you’re in Aruba:

• One Happy Bowl: This healthy cafe is not only instagrammable, but the food here is delicious and most importantly healthy! During the hot weather, it was nice to cool down with their morning granola bowl and their energy bites are also extremely satisfying.
  
  
• Santos Coffee with Soul: Hands down, I think this cafe offers the best oat milk latte I’ve had in my life! I love the vibe here as it’s a rustic, intimate and warm cafe that offers both indoor and outdoor seating. I didn’t get a chance to try the food, but if you’re a coffee lover, definitely come here!
  
• Garden Fresh Cafe: The staff at this cafe is very friendly and accommodating! I was indecisive with my meal choice but they were patient with me. I ordered the chicken bowl, which was filling. I would come here for lunch and if you’re craving a juice, definitely order The Cure!
  
• Flying Fishbone: Looking for a romantic restaurant that will surely knock your shoes off? Then be sure to make a reservation in advanced to the Flying Fishbone. This restaurant actually has seating in the water! Yes you read that correctly! There are tables and chairs that are physically placed in the water by the beach and I don’t know who came up with that idea but it’s pure genius. Splurge on the caviar and you’ll be forever grateful that you did!

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO IN ARUBA

If you’re seeking something cultural and adventurous, then there are two activities I would recommend when you’re in Aruba.

ALOE FARM FACTORY AND MUSEUM

The first attraction would be to visit the Aloe Farm Factory and Museum because aloe is actually very popular in Aruba. With the sun being present everyday, it’s no surprise that locals use aloe for health and beauty benefits. Visitors can enjoy a guided 15 minute tour of the farm and factory to learn more about how they package their aloe products and what the benefits are.

After being educated by all the benefits, I had to purchase some of the skin products and I don’t think you’ll need much convincing after coming here either. It’s a great experience for those wanting to know more about aloe and the visit doesn’t take up that much time.

THE GOLD MINE RANCH

The true highlight and must do in Aruba is go horseback riding at The Gold Mine Ranch! This activity completed my trip in Aruba and now ranks as a top highlight from all my travels. Whether you are an experienced or novice rider, this experience will be unforgettable!

We promise to offer you an exciting horseback adventure with a small group, whether you join us for a private ride or a regular ride. Anyone can ride with us since we offer only the best horses according to your riding skills, whether that is some, very little, or none whatsoever. It is also our goal to provide you with an unforgettable experience that covers over seven spots, including beaches and the Hidden Valley & Lagoon. We are grateful to be able to take you to experience the best spots on the northeast coast of Aruba. We do not offer you just a trail ride, but the best horseback adventure on the island. Explore the island with all your senses.”

The ranch offers different tours, but the one I chose was the sunset tour that ran from 4-5:30 pm. The staff are all experienced and knowledgeable when it comes to horseback riding. Every guest is paired with a horse that best suits his/ her body weight and riding experience. I am a novice rider and the staff assigned me to Goldie (the beautiful baby horse pictured above).

I would be lying if I said I wasn’t nervous but my nerves and fear of falling didn’t prevent me from saying yes to this adventure. The 1.5 hour tour takes you through a breathtaking route that offers you stunning views of both the beach and ocean and cacti in the desert terrain. This experience is the true definition of contradiction.

My advice for this tour is to trust your horse and make sure you are the boss. Some of the roads are steep and bumpy, but the horses are familiar with the route so you just have to hold on to the saddle, go with the flow and enjoy it! I made the mistake of bringing my phone along with me without having a bag. A staff had to hold my phone because it was just way too much to have that along with being present with the experience.

There are break moments where you will stop so you can take photos. The best solution for those wanting to bring their phones would be to bring a fanny pack, so you can strap that along your waist. There is also a photographer who will take photos along the route, so you don’t have to worry about missing all the photo opportunities.

Do also remember to look around and take in the beauty! I was completely mesmerized and taken back by the beautiful views of the sun. I enjoyed the desert and cacti back drop as much as the cliffs from the oceans. It’s truly a sight that’s 100x better in person so you have to book this tour to fully understand why this is a must do in Aruba.

 

The adventurer in me was satisfied and the tour from start to finish was exhilarating! It’s a bit tiring because who knew riding horses would be such a workout. This is a great activity to do with a significant other, with family and friends and even by yourself! Even though I had a friend with me on this tour, you can certainly book this as a solo person because the group ends up being your pact for the whole ride.

Overall, will I return to Aruba? You bet! I felt happiness on the island and I am leaving with fond memories of the food, culture and people.  Since it’s only a 4-5 hour flight from New York, it’s a destination that I would return to. There is so much to do on this island and as I mentioned previously, there’s something for every type of traveler so if you’re itching for a warm getaway, look into Aruba and you’ll understand why they have adopted the motto “One Happy Island.”