Lying just off the coast of Venezuela, Aruba is very different to other Caribbean islands, with a desert-like, cacti-covered interior landscape, a blend of Caribbean, Dutch and Latin American flavours and upscale hotels, fine-dining restaurants and luxury shops.
Here are five other reasons why you should recommend this stunning destination to your clients:
It’s outside the hurricane belt
There’s little risk of your clients’ holidays being disrupted by severe storms as Aruba sits comfortably below the hurricane belt. In fact, it hasn’t been directly hit by a hurricane since its inception in 1851.
The climate is perfect
Aruba has a consistently warm climate, no defined rainy season and is bookable year-round.
Safety
Aruba is one of the wealthiest islands in the Caribbean, its population is well-educated and locals have a good standard of living, so crime rates are low. It’s safe for tourists to wander around, even at night. The two-mile Palm Beach Strip is buzzing in the evenings, with lots of casual dining outlets and bars.
LGBTQ-friendly
Of all the Caribbean islands, Aruba is one of the most welcoming of visitors from the LGBTQ community. It recently legalised same-sex marriage, including for foreigners, and several hotels arrange on-site weddings.
A Dutch and Latin American melting pot
Part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands but lying close to Venezuela, Aruba offers a distinctive blend of Caribbean, Latin American and Dutch culture. Not to be missed are the Instagram-worthy pastel-painted buildings in the capital, Oranjestaad, which also boasts upscale shopping malls housing Europe’s top designer labels such as Gucci, Prada and Louis Vuitton.
The wine
You might be surprised to hear that Aruba produces its own wine, with grapes grown on its own vineyard – and you’ll likely be astonished to hear that it’s very, very drinkable! The Alto Vista Winery offers fascinated guided tours and tastings, which are a highlight of any visit.
