How to Choose an Aruba Vacation Rental for Every Type of Traveler
Aruba is often lumped together with its Caribbean neighbors, but those in the know understand how remarkable this island is.
First, though Aruba is technically a country, it is a constituent of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, with Arubans sharing Dutch citizenship with their compatriots in continental Europe, which is an entire ocean away.
Moreover, the island has a markedly different climate from most other Caribbean beach destinations, featuring a hot and semi-arid climate in stark contrast with the balmy humid conditions found in other inhabited parts of the region.
Lastly, it is also a remarkably diverse and culturally rich country, especially when accounting for its relatively small size.
Like all notable Caribbean destinations, Aruba does have its share of resorts.
However, for a fuller appreciation of its varied attractions, you should, instead, explore the assortment of apartments, vacation homes, and villas dotting the country.
Here’s a quick guide to choosing the ideal Aruba vacation rentals, depending on the kind of traveler you are.
Beachgoers
If you’re looking to enjoy the island’s famous turquoise-blue waters, find a rental close to the beach.
Popular local spots like Palm Beach and Eagle Beach feature multiple properties with beachfront views, including amenities like sun loungers, beach umbrellas, and water sports equipment.
If you’re willing to pay more, you may even find a rental that offers private beach access for your party.
VFR Travelers
VFR (visiting friends and relatives) travelers tend to have more diverse needs than typical tourists.
When visiting people you know in Aruba, consider renting a villa or a larger home that can easily accommodate gatherings. Regardless of where your friend or family member lives, you can probably find suitable properties with a comfortable, homey atmosphere.
Chances are, you’ll have the best luck in areas like the capital Oranjestad, since these developed areas offer convenient access to local residences, commercial establishments, and attractions.
Cultural Tourists
If you’re the kind of traveler who demands a culturally immersive experience, seek out rentals near Oranjestad and San Nicolas, the country’s largest cities.
These areas are still reasonably close to Aruba’s wonderful beach life but also offer proximity to the country’s most important art galleries, museums, and cultural events.
Consider staying in a traditional Aruban home or a boutique apartment to feel a deeper connection to the island’s history and culture.
Adventure Tourists
Adventure enthusiasts should look for rentals near the Arikok National Park or other spots along the northern coast.
Renting a home in this area allows easy access to some of the Caribbean’s best hiking and ATV trails, as well as top-notch windsurfing and kite surfing.
Look for properties with secure storage for rented sports equipment and reasonable proximity to adventure tour operators.
Business Travelers
Aruba may be known for its beaches and leisure activities, but it also has a growing reputation as a business destination, particularly for attendees of MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) events.
If you’re traveling to Aruba for work, you’ll want to find a rental that caters to your professional needs. Look for properties in or near the particular business center, government office, or conference facility you will be visiting.
Moreover, when choosing a rental property, prioritize accommodations with reliable high-speed internet, dedicated workspaces, and useful amenities like meeting rooms.
Rentals in luxury apartments or high-end condos often come with access to such facilities that can make your work trip more productive and comfortable.
Multi-Destination Tourists
A fair proportion of visitors to Aruba are coming in on multi-stop trips that leave little time to fully take in the things that make Aruba so special.
In these cases, convenience and flexibility should be your top priority. Rentals in central locations like Oranjestad feature transportation hubs that simplify access to other parts of the island.
Be sure only to short-list properties with check-in policies that can accommodate your unpredictable travel schedule.
Eco Tourists
Aruba actively promotes eco-tourism and sustainable practices, making it a great destination if you count yourself among the world’s growing number of conscious travelers.
If this is the case, sustainable accommodations in quieter, less commercialized areas may be more your speed.
Consider vacation rentals that use renewable energy sources and support local conservation efforts.
Cruise Ship Tourists
If you’re visiting Aruba as part of a cruise, there is a significant chance your ship will dock at Oranjestad’s ports.
Choosing a rental in the city should permit easy access to your ship while providing a base for exploring the island.
Prioritize short-term rental options that offer flexible stays and are close to the city’s main attractions.
Medical Tourists
Though vacations for these purposes only comprise a small proportion of all tourist visits, health tourists spend considerably more per visit compared to other types of visitors, spurring the local healthcare and tourism industries to actively court these arrivals.
If you’re visiting Aruba for wellness and recovery reasons, you may want to look for rentals in areas that are away from the busier parts but are still reasonably close to the beaches and other attractions.
Noord or Malmok are great bets, with multiple rentals featuring amenities like private pools, gardens, and spa services.
Wedding Tourists
Aruba has been well-developed to accommodate destination wedding tourists, particularly from Western Europe and North America.
If you’re planning to get married on the island, select a large rental with multiple rooms that can accommodate wedding ceremonies and receptions right on the grounds.
Luxury villas in Palm Beach or Eagle Beach overlooking the ocean are ideal spots, offering both natural beauty and local logistics advantages.
Find The Perfect Rental Getaway in Aruba
Aruba has something in store for every type of traveler.
Fortunately, the island offers a variety of vacation rental options that can match every need or interest, taking many of the hassles out of vacationing and letting you create more unforgettable memories on this unique island.
Whatever you’re after, you can rest assured that Aruba has the perfect accommodation waiting for you.
