ARUBA - The Ultimate Island Getaway

As the winter of 2007 approaches, we all start buckling down for what might be a very cold, and usually nasty, winter. If we're lucky, it won't be as bad as we anticipate. And if you're anything like me, you're probably one of the many who, during this time, start to dream of warm, sandy beaches, blue skies and the simple pleasure of just relaxing. I'm sure the visions that run through your mind are of you alone, or maybe with a companion, on some small tropical island, indulging yourself on the cultural cuisine and basking in the sun‘s stress relieving rays. Maybe you're into water sports, such as scuba diving, parasailing, snorkeling or jet skiing. If this is the case, and you're looking for an escape from Old Man Winter, then, my friends, do I have an island for you! You can do all this and more in ARUBA.

The earliest known Indian settlements on the island date back to 1000 A.D., with the arrival of the Caquetios Indians, of the Arawak tribe, from South America. Ancient painted symbols are still visible on limestone caves found at Fontein, Ayo and elsewhere. A visit to Aruba's Museum of Archaeology would make for a great day trip. There you can view pottery remnants and various other artifacts.

Centuries later, the Spanish explorer Alonso de Ojeda arrived on Aruban shores sometime around 1499. Unfortunately, the Spanish quickly exported the native Indians to Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic, where they were put to work in the copper mines. The Dutch took possession of Aruba in 1636, after the Eighty Years' War between Spain and Holland. They remained in control for nearly 200 years. In 1805, during the Napoleonic wars, the English briefly took possession of Aruba, but it was returned to Dutch control in 1816. Today, Aruba remains a part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

WEATHER

The average year round tropical climate of Aruba is 82 degrees F (28 degrees C), and with the always present trade winds you won't have to worry about pesky flying bugs ruining your stay. The average rainfall is about 16.1" per year. Aruba lies outside the hurricane belt, making storms and hurricanes almost non existent.

Water Activities

Whether you're into extreme water sports, fishing, scuba diving or just taking a quick dip in the ocean, Aruba has miles of beautiful blue seas for you to play in. Scuba diving offers you the chance to view the surrounding thriving reefs and marine life, or explore the ghostly hulls of underwater wrecks. The German freighter, The Antilla, is the Carribean's largest wreck - approximately 400 feet long. It is a longtime favorite for resident divers. If you have the urge to try scuba diving for the first time, many resorts offer a 90 minute classroom instruction with a one hour lesson in the pool. This will provide you with the necessary skills to complete one 30-foot dive.

Interested in a breathtaking, birds eye view of the island? Try parasailing! This 15 minute ride is just what the doctor ordered to give your adrenaline a kick start. As the chute opens, catching the warm sea air, you fly weightlessly above Aruba's coast, feeling the exhilaration of freedom that is unrivaled only by the spectacular views of the island and seemingly endless Caribbean Sea.

Aruba's beautiful blue sea and constant sun provide the ultimate playground. There are numerous adventure options for the beginning and even seasoned water sport enthusiast. You can kayak through tranquil blue lagoons or get an adrenaline rush by riding a high powered speedboat or jet ski. Half or full day deep sea fishing trips are available for those who are looking to reel in a large fish or two. If you like to capture the wind, get yourself airborne while kite surfing or windsurfing. The constant 15 knot trade winds have made Aruba one of the most popular places on earth for windsurfers and kite surfers. Every year in June, Aruba hosts the Hi-Winds Amateur World Challenge windsurfing tournament. This ten day competition attracts the most competitive professional windsurfers and hundreds of amateurs to the island.

Land Activities

For you land lovers, Aruba has just as much to do out of the water as it does in it! Tours around the island consist of about 10 four wheel drive vehicles, such as Jeeps and Land Rovers. Organized tours stop at various locations such as the California Lighthouse, the Bushiribana gold mill ruins and the famous Natural Bridge. At the end, you can take a 5 minute ferry ride to a private island off the main land to do some exploring or snorkeling. Oh, and a great barbeque lunch on the island is included!

Aruba's topography makes for some very interesting horseback riding experiences. From sand dunes to desert-like plains, horseback tours through Aruba's countryside will make you feel like you've gone back in time to the days of the wild west. Some popular rides include trails to the Natural Bridge, Aruba's Natural Pool, and along it's magnificent coastline. All of Aruba's trail horses are extremely friendly and no prior riding experience is required. This is one adventure that is fun for all ages!

How about a game of golf? Tierra del Sol is the island's first world class golf course, located at Aruba's northwest tip. The 18 hole, par 71 course allows you to take full advantage of the rugged terrain that is unique to Aruba. As you play, you'll be sure to be passing by some locals, such as wild, green parakeets, or lizards and salamanders basking on rocks. Afterward, stop in and relax at the clubhouse or swimming pool, which includes a pro shop, locker rooms and a restaurant. The Aruba Golf Club is located at the other end of the island and features a 9 hole course with 20 sand traps and 5 water traps. Mini golf is also available for some family fun. Adventure Golf, also known as the worlds largest miniature golf course, with it's cascading waterfalls, is a popular spot for families.

These are just a few of the fun filled adventures that await you in Aruba. Other outings include tennis, bicycle tours, ATV Tours and sightseeing.

Whether your into the exciting night life of a hotel casino or just want to relax in your very own villa, Aruba has a wide assortment of accommodations to choose from. Some of the more popular high rise hotels are located in either the city or on the beach. These include The Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino, Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach, Brickell Bay Beach Club, Holiday Inn Aruba Resort and Casino, Hyatt Regency Resort and Casino, Radisson Aruba Resort & Casino and the Renaissance Aruba Ocean Suites, just to name a few.

Low rise hotel accommodations can be found at the Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort, Divi Aruba All Inclusive, Dutch Village, La Cabana All-Suite Beach Resort and Casino, Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa, Talk of the Town Hotel and Beach Club and the Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive.

Looking to escape the crowded hotel beaches and snuggle into your very own beachside villa? Try looking into one of these fantastic places: Aruba Beach Front Villa, Aruba Primavera Residences, Aruba Villa Rentals, Iguana Villa, Le Chateau Aruba or the Sunflower Villa Aruba. Some of the villas come complete with a private pool or Jacuzzi and are a short distance to beautiful white sandy beaches, shops, hotels and restaurants.

And, of course, there are always apartments, townhouses, and condos you can consider renting, too. Check online or with your travel agent to see if there are any special package deals to Aruba that combine air and hotel fares, making your travel plans much more affordable than you think.

So, if you decide to go, and I'm sure you will someday, you can rest assured you won't be disappointed ....(except when it's time to get on the plane to go home!)