by John Imamura

Created on: November 18, 2009

There is a small island located about 15 miles off the coast of Venezuela. It is only about 20 miles long and about 6 miles across at it's widest point. The island is named Aruba, and its one the best spots in the Caribbean. With its signature Divi-divi trees and pristine white beaches, Aruba is a great place to relax and get away. Honeymooners flock to this island all year round, it is located outside of the hurricane belt. You will also be amazed how many people return to Aruba, year after year and never get tired of its beautiful beaches, friendly people, clear calm waters, casinos, and amazing sunsets.

If there is one trip you should you make in your lifetime, it is Aruba. The capital of Aruba is Oranjestad, which has many great places to eat and shop, you often will see cruise ships at the dock with hordes of people shuffling on and off the ship. On the northwest side of the island you will find where the majority of the hotels are located and two of best beaches on the island, Palm and Eagle beach. Everyday you will see iguanas,lizards and geckos sunbathing all around the island. The water is calm on the west side of the island and you will find amazing places to scuba dive and snorkel. There are many types of water sports like para-sailing and jet sking to enjoy. If you like golf you wont be disappointed either. Book a tee-time at the championship course Tierra Del Sol or maybe less challenging course like Divi Links There is a challenge because of the constant trade winds but whats better then swinging the stick without a care in the world. This is the type of atmosphere you will enjoy in Aruba. There is even a butterfly farm, ostrich farm, and a natural pool to visit. Horse back riding, ATV and jeep tours are also popular activities.

The nightlife in Aruba has its options as well. There are casinos all throughout the island where you can try your luck out. There are many tiki bars right on the beach where you can enjoy your favorite cocktail and listen to live music. Order a Balashi beer, its brewery is located right on the island. Also, the climate is ideal for growing Aloe and they make some of the finest Aloe in the world.The Sopranos piano bar is great spot to enjoy live music and unwind, make sure you make a stop there. Another must is a dinner sunset cruise or a candle light dinner on the beach. Even a simple stroll on the beach has its pleasures. The sunsets are amazing! Don't forget to book your reservations at the Flying Fishbone, you can request a table right next to the water, the waves literally hit your feet while you dine on great seafood, don't forget to ask what the fresh catch of the day is, local fisherman supply wonderful options from barracuda to snapper. If you want to pamper yourself, try a beach side massage or a treatment at one of the spas on the island.

Aruba has it all! It has everything you expect from a Caribbean island and more. There are so many things to do for such a small island. Aruba also offers world class windsurfing,unbelievable scuba diving sites and a friendly atmosphere for everyone. Another time to visit is during the annual Carnival season, the whole island celbrates with parties, parades and activities. During this time it is the busy season and vacations are very pricy, you can get get great deals if you choose to go during the off season. These are just some of the things you can do on the island. The next vacation you take should be Aruba, one happy island!

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