( 6 reviews )
-
Posted: Apr 12 2008
This book was very helpful on my honeymoon. I would recommend getting the most up to date version though, as things change rapidly.
-
( 1 of 1 found this review helpful ) Posted: Oct 7 2007
We just got back from Aruba. We had a wonderful time. The guide was not much help. We read through the guide before we arrived and we did not open it once once we arrived, we actually left it in Aruba on purpose. We found much more updated information from the Internet and the visitor guides at the resort. There's Internet access at most of the resorts, so my advice is to save your money and use online resources. There are a lot of great websites www.restaurantsaruba.com, tripadvisor.com. As far as snorkeling, just drive towards the lighthouse you will see snorkeling boats near the shore, those are the best spots (the beaches just before the lighthouse). Lots of great fish to see. You can rent the snorkeling equipment from the Pelican Pier, it is on Palm Beach. I would stay away from the other side of the island unless you want to get lost and frustrated, the roads are not marked well and there are lots of dirt roads. There is a cool point at the end of the island, but it was just worth our frustrations. Our favorite things, were gambling, relaxing at the beach, snorkeling, and eating. A must eat is Madame Janette, make sure you make reservations as soon as you arrive. This is the best restaurant; ask to be in the garden. You can also make reservations online through the website. If you are visiting in the winter I would suggest you make reservations before you visit. [...] The only other thing I that looked like a blast but we could not do, because I am pregnant, is rent an ATV. They were lots of having fun on the dunes. The party bus. If you are a party person and like to dance, you would enjoy this. They pick you up at your hotel you go up to the lighthouse have a glass of champagne and then go to a beautiful estate where you have dinner and get to know some of you fellow drinkers. Then you go to 3 bars. There were two buses of us on a Wednesday night. So I if you do it on the weekend I am sure there are more people. It was entertaining. Of course I was sober since I am pregnant. They give you tickets so your first drink is free at dinner and the 3 bars. Spa and salon? Well I was going to go to a Spa but after 2 salon visits I opted not to. It would be fine if you know Spanish, but if you do not I suggest you ask for someone who is fluent in English. Otherwise it is a guessing game. It cost about the same if you did it in the US. Food and service. They take their time in Aruba. Meals usually take 1-2 hours, so if you are starving I suggest you hit one of the fast food joints. The service and locals are wonderful and nice. On off season most everything is closed on Sunday. Bargains - hit the local flea market. I found great deals on Silver, I wish I only boght more. We will be going back to Aruba. It so far has been our favorite vacation spot and we have been to many. Thailand, Japan, Mexico, Key West, Vegas, Sedona, New Zealand, Florida we are well travelled. Have a drink and enjoy this One Happy Island! If you have anymore questions ask a taxi driver once you are in Arbua, they know everything!
-
( 6 of 6 found this review helpful ) Posted: Mar 3 2006
This was not my first time using a Frommer's travel guide for the purpose of having the best time possible in an unknown place. I purchased the book a day before my Aruba trip, read it on the plane and actually kept it in our rental car for consistant reference. As far as I'm concerned - these travel books tell it like it is, good or bad. I can't imagine anyone giving this book less than 5 stars! Buy it!
