Tips on Accommodations

Hotels & Resorts

Some travelers assume they can't afford the big hotels and resorts. With all the packages and sales, though, this isn't always true.

The rates included in this book are "rack rates" -- the officially posted rates you'd be given if you walked in off the street. Hardly anyone actually pays these prices. Save yourself a bundle by asking your travel agent or the hotel's reservations agent about packages or discounts.

Some hotels are flexible about rates, and many offer discounts and upgrades whenever they have a big block of rooms to fill and few reservations. Smaller hotels are less likely to be generous with discounts, much less upgrades.

The best deals can be had during off-peak periods, which doesn't always mean from mid-April to mid-December only. Discounts are also available during certain slow periods, called "windows," most often after the New Year's holiday. If you want a winter vacation, choose January rather than February or the Christmas holidays, when prices are at their all-year high.

All-Inclusives

Presumably, everything's paid for upfront at an "all-inclusive" resort, even drinks and watersports. Unfortunately, some packages cover a room and three meals a day only -- drinks, sports, and whatever else are extra. Before you book, ask exactly what's included.

Generally speaking, the all-inclusive market is geared to the active traveler who likes lots of organized entertainment and activities, and unlimited platters and chaffing dishes of food and endless drinks in plastic cups. Aruba's all-inclusives also appeal to families (there's so much going on, the kids will never get bored) and young adults (plenty of fun times and other young adults). On the other hand, if you want to get out, see the island, and eat at some of the amazing restaurants, or if you're not particularly interested in nonstop organized events, all-inclusives probably aren't for you.

Timeshares

Renting an apartment can be one of the least expensive ways to vacation in Aruba. It also offers privacy, independence, and, in most cases, peace and quiet. All of Aruba's timeshare accommodations come with a kitchen, and most have a living room, a dining room, and a guest room or two. Because many tour operators work directly with timeshares that have rentals available, your travel agent may present a suite in a timeshare property as just another accommodation option. In addition, most individual timeshare resorts assist owners in renting their units, so call a property that interests you or visit its website. Some websites have owner bulletin boards with a listing of rentals available. General bulletin boards, such as Aruba Bulletin Board (www.aruba-bb.com), abound with timeshare rental opportunities.