Not sure where to go for your next vacation? Make Aruba your next vacation destination. There are numerous hotels and resorts to choose from when planning a trip. Furthermore, the photographs and reviews online sometimes do not match what we see when checked in. This blog will feature Top Reasons To Visit Aruba and my honest hotel review of the Aruba Plam Beach RIU Palace All-Inclusive Resort (Adults Only).
Do you have a family with children? Hotel RIU Palace (next door to the RIU Palace Antillas adult only resort) offers a family resort where children can engage in safe and entertaining family activities. Up to 2 children ages 2 to 12 years old are allowed to stay for free.
Why Visit Aruba?
I visited Aruba a few years ago during the pandemic. It was a much-needed trip to get away from work-related stress and COVID-19. They say Aruba is a happy place; in my experience, it is completely true.
Whether you have been to Aruba or not, It is one of the islands you will want to visit often for a very relaxing and stress-busting experience. However, choosing the right hotel or resort can add a positive experience to your vacation. This is not a sponsored blog, but I hope it will provide some insights into why you should choose RIU for your hotel accommodation.
Let us first provide you with a little knowledge about Aruba and reasons why I believe this is such a special place to visit.
Where Is Aruba?
Aruba is a small Caribbean island in the southern Caribbean, namely in the Lesser Antilles. It is around 18 miles north of Venezuela’s coastline.
Oranjestad is the capital city of Aruba. It is known for its vibrant Dutch-inspired architecture. It seems to be a vibrant city and is considered Aruba’s cultural and economic hub.
Relationship Between Netherlands and Aruba
The Netherlands and Aruba have a special relationship because both are members of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, a political union that includes Curaçao, Sint Maarten, and the Netherlands.
While Aruba maintains a high degree of self-government, the Netherlands monitors its defense system, international affairs, and assists in certain administrative sectors.
Arubans hold Dutch passports, which offer them the same travel and residency privileges as European Union citizens.
This connection strengthens relations between Aruba and the Netherlands, with many Arubans moving to Europe for school and employment, and Dutch nationals frequently visiting Aruba for tourist or commerce.
When Did Aruba Gain Independence?
Aruba became a Dutch colony in 1636, during the colonial period. It gradually acquired a distinct identity that set it apart from the other Caribbean islands.
In 1986, Aruba was granted a special “Status Aparte,” detaching it from the Netherlands Antilles and making it an independent entity within the Kingdom.
This decision enabled Aruba to manage its own internal affairs, including its economy and infrastructure while remaining tied to the Netherlands.
Languages of Aruba
Aruba has a mix of both Dutch and Caribbean influences. Dutch is still one of Aruba’s official languages, alongside Papiamento, a Creole language specific to the island. It combines elements of Portuguese, African languages, Dutch, and Spanish.
Dutch architecture, educational systems, and governance models have left a lasting impression on Aruba. However, the island has retained its Caribbean essence, resulting in a culturally rich and diverse environment.
Top Reasons To Visit Aruba
Aruba, referred to as “One Happy Island,” is an excellent choice for travelers seeking relaxation, adventure, and cultural experience. Here are the main reasons why Aruba should be at the top of your vacation list.
(1) Top Reasons To Visit Aruba: Connected Flights Into Aruba
Aruba has several connections to major international airports, particularly those in the United States, Canada, and Europe.
In addition, it is easy to get around Aruba using cab services and public transportation. The majority of locals and hotel workers speak English and Spanish in addition to their native languages.
(2) Aruba is safe and Family Friendly
Arubans make visitors feel at home, at least that was what I experienced. The island’s hospitality reflects the upbeat and relaxed attitude that often greets its visitors.
I must add that it feels safe. My cab driver reassured me that the island experiences little to no crimes. This makes it a safe family-friendly destination.
(3) Aruba is Unlikely To Be Hit By Hurricane
One interesting fact I learned was that Aruba, positioned outside the hurricane belt, offers a year-round vacation with pleasant temperatures and cooling trade winds. This could be why I have never heard of hurricanes striking the island.
(4) Sunny Cool Weather All Year Round
Aruba welcomes you with bright, sunny weather almost every day of the year. The island’s location outside the hurricane zone makes it a worry-free destination, particularly during the Caribbean rainy season.
The consistent trade winds keep the island breezy and comfortable.
(5) Aruba’s Gorgeous White Sand Beaches
Eagle Beach and Palm Beach are frequently ranked among the world’s best beaches, offering excellent opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
Aruba is well-known for its stunning white sand aqua-blue beaches. The island, which is only 69 square miles, is said to be a favorite destination for vacationers seeking a sunny beach paradise.
(6) Top Reasons To Visit Aruba: A Foodie’s Paradise
If you are a Food Explora like myself, you will be delighted by Aruba’s diverse food culture, which combines Caribbean, Dutch, and worldwide flavors.
From fresh seafood delicacies like Keshi Yena (stuffed cheese) to hearty local Pastechi (savory pastries), there is something for everyone. Don’t forget to sample the island’s locally brewed Balashi Beer. Don’t worry, RIU starts its guest off with a few cans in their hotel’s room refrigerator.
(7) Fun Outdoor Activities
Aside from its beautiful beaches, Aruba provides exciting outdoor activities.
Explore the Arikok National Park, which is home to stunning cliffs, caves, and a diverse range of plants and animals.
Take advantage of the island’s abundant underwater life by booking a Snorkeling adventure. Also try their many water sports: diving, jet skiing, parasailing, kiteboarding, and others.
Families can enjoy water parks and animal sanctuaries like the Butterfly Farm and the Donkey Sanctuary.
Popular cultural Landmarks include (a) Forth Zoutman, one of Aruba’s oldest buildings that houses a historical museum. (b) Wilhelmina Park is a cool spot that shows homage to Queen Wilhelmina (c) Aruba Aloe Factory and Museum.
(8) Vibrant Night Life
Dance to live music, sip tropical cocktails or try your luck in one of the island’s casinos.
(9) Unique Landscape Of Aruba
Its landscape is distinct from other Caribbean islands. Even though there is greenery, you will observe many patches of cactus plants surrounded by dry, desert-like scenery.
However, I am unsure if it was due to the Christmas season when I visited, but the climate was much cooler and had very low humidity compared to other Caribbean islands.
(10) Flavorful Cultural Melting Pot
Aruba is a cultural melting pot that draws on its Arawak, Dutch, African, and Spanish roots.
Visitors can enjoy the island’s colorful festivities, such as Carnival, in addition to historical landmarks like the Alto Vista Chapel and the California Lighthouse.
Papiamento, the island’s unique Creole language, provides a special flavor to its cultural appeal. The locals’ accents are unique and fun to hear.
ARUBA RIU Palace Palm Beach (Adults Only) All-Inclusive: My Honest Review.
Hotel RIU Palace Palm Beach ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORT, ARUBA.
Nestled along Palm Beach’s beautiful white sand beach, RIU Palm Beach All-inclusive Resort provides the ideal balance of luxury, leisure, and adventure, making it a great choice for tourists looking for a slice of paradise.
Writing this blog sparked a great sentimental longing to revisit the island. I stayed in the 18th-floor junior suite with a balcony.
The room was inviting, spacious, and clean. Ask for room 1826. I believe it gives you access to the best views of the city, pool, and beach.
RIU Palm Beach Sunset Views
Imagine waking up every day and walking onto your balcony to take in the breathtaking views of blue oceans. Think about the beautiful sunsets in the evenings.
With just a few steps from the hotel, you will have full access to Palm Beach, one of Aruba’s most iconic beaches.
Palm Beach’s gorgeous white sands and quiet, crystal-clear waters, are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
All-Inclusive Dining and Alcoholic Beverages
Whether you crave fresh seafood, international cuisine, desserts, tropical fruits, unlimited alcoholic beverages, or a tropical piña colada, Hotel RIU Palace Aruba has you covered. This is the one vacation we are permitted to be gluttonous.
I had access to three meals a day. Whether you are looking to gorge or indulge in clean eating, there is a menu that meets everyone’s needs
RIU provides a wide selection of menu items for those who practice a Vegan or Vegetarian lifestyle. As a big-time Foodie, I can honestly say that the resort’s food, drinks, and dessert quality are top-notch.
Onsite Restaurants At the RIU
Guests can dine at the 5 onsite restaurants that offer a range of dining experiences, from international cuisines to specialty dining selections such as Italian, Japanese, and steakhouse.
Just make sure you make a reservation ahead of time. I will suggest you reach out and book your restaurant of choice before you land on the Island.
The De Palm Pier is my all-time favorite spot. Imagine dining on Aruban Ocean waters while taking in the breathtaking views of turquoise water between every bite of food. If you love eating by the beach, then this pier should be your go-to eatery.
Palm Beach Buffet Style Dining
The “Palm Beach” dining hall is where guests can enjoy top-tier buffet-style service for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
There is access to a galore of food and liquor every day, all day. However, there is a cut-off point to provide preparation for food service in between each meal.
I enjoy dining on the beach. The dining room offers both indoor and outdoor seating options with stunning seaside views.
During my stay, I try to arrive early to ensure that I get a table with the seaviews. I can honestly say the quality of the food is top-notch. The presentation of the food makes it even more enticing.
Exceptional Service
No hotel or resort is perfect. But I can honestly say that all the staff I encountered and observed were warm, friendly, attentive, and very professional. Good customer service is not easy to come by.
I applaud the Management team who trained the staff and ensured that they provided great customer service to every guest regardless of their race or socioeconomic background.
Top Reasons To Visit Aruba: RIU Renova Spa
If you need to de-stress and unwind your tension away, I recommend booking an appointment with Renova Spa at the RIU.
Renova Spa not only provides various sorts of massage therapies, but also packages that include facials, manicures, and pedicures.
As soon as I walked through the door, the receptionist greeted me with a kind smile.
The smell of aromatic oils and relaxing music had a very calming effect. If I worked there, I would be falling asleep on the job everyday.
I booked an hour of well-deserved deep tissue massage. My body and mind felt rejuvenated. Afterward, I walked to the beach to relax and ultimately fell asleep.
I am not sure about you, but hearing the waves crash on the sand and feeling the cool ocean breeze transports me to a level of relaxation that a massage session does not.
RIU Swimming Pool + Swim Up Bar
From my room’s balcony, the pool looks spectacular. It feels grand with beautiful views of Palm Beach. The pool is impressive to view, especially at nights when it is lit up.
Unfortunately, the pool closes at around 7 or 8 pm in the evenings. However, the resort offers pool activities such as water aerobics during the mornings to midday.
The swim-up pool is a great way to relax by the pool or inside the pool on one of the concrete bar stools while enjoying a drink or two by the bar.
Gym
“Sweat is just fat crying.” is one of the funny messages you will read on the walls of the gym. For those who want to stay active, there is a fully equipped fitness center where guests can engage in weight training and aerobic exercises.
Easy Access To Tourist Attractions and Public Transportation
RIU’s location allows guests easy access to nearby tourist attractions such as Arikok National Park, the California Lighthouse, various shops and restaurants in Oranjestad.
There is a bus stop directly outside the resort. I believe I paid about US $2.50 for the bus ride. You can take the blue or yellow bus for a short ride into town where you will have access to different shops, craft markets, and restaurants.
Taxi services are available at the resort. The front desk staff will be more than happy to help. I received the contact information of the driver who took me from the airport. I felt comfortable booking her for my trips.
What did I not like about Aruba Riu Palace Antillas All-Inclusive Resort?
The only negative aspect of my stay at RIU Palm Beach Resort was that I visited during the pandemic. Covid and the related social distancing placed a damper on nightlife and tourist attractions.
Secondly, the huge green Iguanas that look like baby alligators were a nuisance. The closest I have come in contact with these creatures was watching them on National Geographic or YouTube.
This was my first real-life encounter with an Iguana. Let’s say I am not a fan of them. However, I am sure Lauren, a Photographer and Travel Blogger of Pure Photography would have fun exploring them.
The iguanas were not shy to invite themself to chill with me by the beach and the pool. The way they walked and looked at me made me feel like I was on the movie set of “The Walking Dead”
They must have been drunkards because they were constantly going after my cup of alcoholic beverage. However, if you kick the sand at them, they will quickly run away and leave you alone.
You may book hotel accommodation through the RIU website. However, you may book your affordable vacation packages with Expedia and have a stress-free travel experience! I have been booking with Expedia for many years.
This online travel agency offers a wide selection of flights, hotels, car rentals, and holiday packages all in one location.
Expedia makes it simple to find the best offers for you. Whether you’re looking for a tropical beach getaway, a city adventure, or a relaxing retreat, Expedia has incredible deals, flexible booking options, and 24-hour customer service.
What Travel Essentials do you need for Aruba?
Remember to stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and wear sunglasses,
Below are some shopping travel essentials from Amazon. Click on each link to learn more.
Hawaiian Tropic Broad Spectrum Sunscreen
PLANNING A VACATION To The bahamas?
With the great service I received in Aruba, the RIU Bahamas was my first choice for an all-inclusive stay. The experience was a pleasurable one, despite the pandemic.
Below are some recollections of my time at the Bahamas RIU All-Inclusive Beach Resort. I hope my blog will be useful and provide some insights in helping you plan your vacation.
Top Tourist Destinations You Must Visit In the USA?
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ARUBA:
A HAPPY PLACE TO REMEMBER
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I remember RIU hotels from Turkey. Riu Kaya in Belek was great.
Thank you for visiting and sharing, Miss Simplitty. Hope you get to visit Aruba RIU Palace.
Interesting, I didn’t know Aruba was in the hurricane free zone, which is a great advantage as you don’t need to plan your trip for a specific time of year. I’d love to go one day, and if I get the chance I’ll know where to go, thanks for the detailed article about the resort and what to expect. By the way, I’d love to meet iguanas but I didn’t know they were drunkards 😂. Thanks for sharing!
Lol. Thanks for visiting Ginger. Glad you found value in my blog. Hope you get to visit Aruba some day. You are going to love the island.
This is such an in-depth review, while most a so topical. I had no idea Aruba is hurricane-free. Definitely want to go next year.
Thank you, Sang.
This looks so dreamy, awesome place to visit.
Great food and caffe bars too…
Thank you., Underflower sky
This looks amazing and I’ve added it on my list of places to visit.
Aruba is the place to be.
Oh my those iguanas look massive! The food delicious!!
Thank you, Lauren.
This was fascinating to read as I definitely don’t know enough about Aruba. It sounds like there is a lot to offer, and coupling that with an all-inclusive resort means it takes the guesswork out of finding places to visit, where to eat, etc. This is a great review, it makes me want to go there now!
Glad I introduced you to introduce you to Aruba, Molly. Hope you get to visit someday. You are going to love Aruba.
I would love it for the beach, but my wife would love it for the iguanas lol thanks for sharing your experience. I really want to go!
I am sure if your van could drive to Aruba with your van, you, your wife and 3 legged friend would probably make it one of you destination stops. Hope you all get to visit Aruba some day.
It was so wonderful to read this post and relive my vacation at the Riu in Aruba. We used both parts of the hotel and loved every single minute. The food, the staff, so many fun things to do and most of all… Aruba is one of the most beautiful islands I have ever visited. Would love to go again.
Thanks for visiting Elaine. I can’t wait to revisit Aruba; it is a special place
Great travel review for Aruba! Hands down my favorite place on earth! I’ve wanted to visit the Riu but haven’t yet. I stayed a few times at that property before it became Riu (when it was the Wyndham then later the Westin) – the beach is perfect by the Riu!
I didn’t know that the Wyndham hotel was there before. Thanks for sharing. I agree that the beach is spectacular.
I’ve heard about Aruba before but I had no idea anout it’s relationship with the Netherlands. I’m glad I found your post.
Thank you for visiting, Miss Simplitty. Glad to learned something new.
I love the Tropics, but I’ve never been to Aruba. In fact, I’ve never been to the Carribean. It’s good to know that it’s safe. And your food pix are quite tempting. I love the photo of the restaurant with the colorful chair. I can imagine myself sitting on one, lingering over a leisurely meal!
Thanks for visiting, Michael. Appreciate the comment.