Explaining Airline Fare Codes

Did you know that the price of your airplane ticket will be dependent upon which booking code you book your flight under? Booking codes, booking classes or fare classes, the terms mean the same thing. It specifies the rules for an airline's fare. Booking codes vary by airline and are specific to individual airlines. This article explains the details.

Stay, Save and Say "I Do" With the Divi & Tamarijn Aruba

All Inclusive Wedding and Honeymoon Packages

ORANJESTAD, ARUBA – (December 17, 2013)– Couples planning a destination wedding who want a picturesque tropical island setting for their vow exchange and honeymoon that’s also easy on the budget are sure to fall in love with the Divi & Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusives Wedding and Honeymoon packages. When booking the Divi Aruba All Inclusive or Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive for their matrimonial ceremony, newlyweds will receive an added gift of savings.

Once their wedding party reserves a minimum of 10 double occupancy rooms for at least five nights at either of the properties the newlyweds will receive a FREE honeymoon stay for up to 7 nights including:

Christmas Presents to Aruba

So Jerry and I are having our annual discussion about Christmas presents. Each year when we travel, we pack our gifts, along with wrapping paper, scissors, gift tags and the much need scotch tape in order to wrap our gifts upon arrival at our destination. This year it will be Aruba!

Pain in the neck, but the United States governement in the form of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) likes it that way. Small price to pay to get our presents to Aruba.

Almost In Aruba?

Christmas Message from the Aruba Tourism Authority

If this does not make you long for your "home away from home", nothing ever will.

Orchid welcomes friends and family members

We would like to introduce Orchid to you, one of the donkeys that has found a home at the Aruba Donkey Sanctuary. Before Orchid came to live at the sanctuary, she was a daredevil, sauntering in the middle of the road together with her daughter Cymbi. This dangerous lifestyle came to an end when the inhabitants of Rooi Master lured her and nine other donkeys into their garden. A trailer took all of them to the sanctuary, where Orchid delivered a son named Gismo after two days. Orchid had a hard time adjusting to life at the sanctuary: she had to get used to the other donkeys as well as to the people there. She was so stressed out that she refused any food during her first two weeks with us, but everything became much better when we succeeded in catching her daughter Cymbi. Their reunion was emotional and very, very happy and from that moment on, life became much more agreeable for Orchid.

Holiday Dining at the Ritz Carlton Aruba

Christmas Eve Dinner
December 24, 2013 – 5:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Soliano, Les Crustaces, Madero restaurants
Enjoy Christmas Eve dinner menu’s with holiday delights in one of our three restaurants.
Savor a special holiday menu on this joyous evening and enjoy the finest cuisine and service.

New Year’s Eve Prime Rib and Lobster Dinner in Madero
December 31, 2013 – 6 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Madero restaurant
Watch our chef in action over our wood fired parrilla while enjoying a savory selection of delectable meats, fish and creative dishes.
$125.00 for Adults; Kids ages 12 and under $60.00

Aramis would like some friends and family members

We would like to introduce Aramis to you, one of the donkeys that has found a home at the Aruba Donkey Sanctuary. We have never seen a donkey that was so easily accepted by the herd as Aramis. Normally it takes quite a while before the herd accepts a newcomer, but with Aramis and his friend Ninja it went without a hitch. We only separated them for one night, but one noticed that the herd was not opposed to this gorgeous, dark grey donkey. So put into the herd, and loving every moment at the Aruba Donkey Sanctuary. Aramis can look forward to staying a long, long time with us, as he is just four years old.

This beautiful donkey has been provided with a chip, just like all the other donkeys. On the chip is information about the donkey and its medical history. The donkeys at the sanctuary have a lot of friends with whom they can play all day long. And they love living there: they are well-cared for, they are fed and watered and when they are sick the vet is called. Yes, they are expensive customers for the sanctuary.

The volunteers are trying to cover the various costs with all kinds of activities and the sale of great donkey memorabilia in the shop. Fortunately, there are also visitors who wish to adopt a donkey, who buy something at the donkey shop or who make a donation. Thus they help support us. Everyone is welcome to visit the sanctuary, which has opening hours from 9 am until 4 pm and in the weekend from 10 am until 3. Entry is free of charge and one can enjoy a soft drink, a cup of coffee or a refreshing ice cream.

The volunteers of the sanctuary are hoping that somebody will adopt this friendly, lovely donkey. Of course the donkey will keep on living at the sanctuary; you only need to pay AWG. 30,-- [$16.76 USD] per month for the donkey’s keep. With this amount you help support the sanctuary as well as your own donkey. And you will receive a beautiful certificate and a super T-shirt and your name and photo will be posted on our website. So please call the sanctuary at 593-2933; you can also register via the website www.arubandonkey.org or donate money on bank account number 40.03.025 at the Aruba Bank! Just do it! Would you like to follow the donkeys on Facebook: surf to Donkey Sanctuary Aruba.

Paseo Herencia Weekend of Shopping!

Aruba Crafty Hands

The first holiday shopping spree where you can meet Aruba's Artisans and take home 100% Aruba hand made products while supporting the Aruban culture.

Adventures in Aruba

Travelista Teri travels to Aruba, checks into the beautiful Aruba Marriott Resort and Casino and has incredible adventures as she tries her hand at stand up paddle boarding in the calm Caribbean sea, hikes with a medicine doctor in Arikok National Park, and sets sail on a sunset cruise.

Marriott International elevates commitment to a green Aruba with the opening of the Ritz-Carlton Aruba

ORANJESTAD, ARUBA November 20, 2013- As the new Ritz-Carlton, Aruba opens its doors to welcome luxury guests to the island of Aruba on Friday, November 22, 2013, J. W. “Bill” Marriott Jr., Executive Chairman of Marriott International, the parent company of the iconic Ritz-Carlton brand with two existing Marriott hotels on the island, announced today several new partnership initiatives to promote sustainable tourism on the island. The collaboration is designed to further enhance Prime Minister Mike Eman’s vision for a Green Aruba while continuing Marriott’s long-standing commitment to enriching education on the island.

“Aruba is at the forefront for travelers who seek elegant accommodations, a beautiful climate and unparalleled beaches, where they can enjoy pristine nature and leave nothing more than their footprints in the sand,” said Mr. Marriott. “To support that sustainable vision, we are pleased and honored to present an environmental curriculum tailored to Aruba for 5th and 6th grade primary school students on the island, introduce youth to leadership skills through our Ritz-Carlton Succeed Through Service program and support the government’s vision for a tourism institute that will be a magnet for hospitality professionals hoping to pursue careers in the growing Caribbean and Latin America tourism economy.”

Prime Minister Mike Eman Opening the Ritz Carlton Aruba

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company Grows Global Portfolio With The Opening Of Its Newest Luxury Resort In Aruba

The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba Unveils Unparalleled Luxury Experience to the Island of Aruba

MIAMI, Nov. 22, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- After much anticipation, today The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. introduces its sixth luxury resort in the exclusive Caribbean & Mexico portfolio with the opening of The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba. Situated on the island's pristine Palm Beach, the eagerly anticipated oceanfront hotel officially welcomes its first guests while ushering in a new level of luxury travel experiences to the beautiful island nation.

What You Can Do If the Airline Loses Your Luggage

Link: How To Use Twitter to Solve Airline Luggage Mishaps

In Aruba, Have You Ever Wondered...

What is inside the Bubabli Bird Sanctuary in Palm Beach?

Link: Bubali Bird Sanctuary, Aruba, Netherlands Antilles | the Internet Bird Collection

What's Happening Around Aruba Today

Aruba Today

Diving for Lionfish somewhere off of Malmok

Lionfish aside, if you were ever curious about reef diving in Aruba and what it was like, here is your answer



Eat more Lionfish!

Best Things to Do in Aruba - Vacation Activities & Excursions

Link: Best Things to Do in Aruba - Vacation Activities & Excursions

Five Great Hotel Beach Bars in Aruba

Link: Five Great Hotel Beach Bars in Aruba

It is unfortunate that they list the SandBar at the Bucuti since they only permit guests and those invited by them to use their facilities.

Unpacked: Sights And Sounds On An Airplane

Demystifying common sights and sounds of an airline flight.

Link: Unpacked: Sights And Sounds On An Airplane

RIU Hotels & Resorts Has Announced the Purchase of the Westin Aruba

November 8, 2013- Riu has informed the Government of Aruba has come to an agreement with the owner of the Westin Hotel, Wells Fargo, to buy the property. An operation that, according to the country's tourism minister, could be completed in about two months.

The Majorcan chain plans to invest between 30 and 40 million dollars to renovate the property and raise its category according to various local newspapers.

Casino at the Ritz Carlton, Aruba

The Ritz Carlton, Aruba is expected to open on time as scheduled on November 22.

The resort will offer a 15,000 square foot casino will be the second largest casino on the island. They will offer a variety of traditional casino games ranging from:

• Blackjack
• Roulette
• Three Card Poker
• EZ Baccarat
• Craps
• Caribbean Stud
• Let It Ride
• Texas Hold’ Em against the House

There will also be more than 300 slot machines with different denominations, progressives and themes.

Table games are available from 6 p.m. - 3 a.m.

The casino at the Ritz Carlton, Aruba will offer complimentary Players Club Membership as well as a specially designed high-limit table section.

Paseo Herencia Walk of Stars for Xander Bogaerts

European pre-clearance at Aruba's Queen Beatrix International Airport

30. Oct, 2013- European pre-clearance ArubaThe first phase of the European pre-clearance will start this year. This first phase is a pilot project with automatic passport scanners for travelers with a European passport. The scanner has an integrated face recognition system that allows easy access to the European Union.

The pre-clearance system is a part of the ‘happy flow-concept’. This concept makes it easier for travelers to enter the European Union.

Daily Holiday Activities at the Ritz Carlton Aruba

December 22 through January 2, 2014

Beach, Sun and Fun Adventure – 9 a.m. – 10 a.m.
Bring the whole family for some beach games under the sun and meet other kids and families.

Windsurfing clinic – 10 a.m.
Learn how to windsurf with the Instructor from Vela Surf Center.

Teen/Tween Salon time
Book your manicure or pedicure and get nails to show off on the beach or pool. Reservations required 24 hours in advance. Fee applies

Who to Tip & How Much at Hotels

Link: Who to Tip & How Much at Hotels

Amadeus adopts Amadeus

Almost five years ago, popular restaurant Amadeus opened its doors just a few hundred yards from the traffic circle at Tanki Leendert. Because the restaurant is owned by Austrian chef Thomas Mitter, he named it Amadeus after the famous Austrian composer, Wolgang Amadeus Mozart. Even the interior decoration reflects the era and the ground floor is a copy of a room where Mozart performed in Vienna. The dishes, however, are modern fortunately, with of course the Austrian `Wiener Schnitzel’ playing a starring role in the menu; it is called Mozart’s Surf & Turf.

TripAdvisor Serves Up 2013 Travelers' Choice Restaurants

Second Annual Awards Recognize Travelers' Favorite Fine Dining Spots Around the Globe

NEWTON, Mass., Oct. 30, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- TripAdvisor®, the world's largest travel site*, today announced the winners of its 2013 Travelers' Choice™ Restaurants awards. The awards honor travelers' favorite fine dining establishments worldwide, based on millions of valuable reviews and opinions on TripAdvisor.

The awards recognize 171 restaurants, covering 13 countries and seven regions around the globe, including lists for Europe, Asia, South America, South Pacific, the Caribbean, the U.S. and the World.

FAA to Allow Airlines to Expand Use of Personal Electronics

The FAA has determined that airlines can safely expand passenger use of Portable Electronic Devices (PEDs) during all phases of flight

"...Passengers will eventually be able to read e-books, play games, and watch videos on their devices during all phases of flight, with very limited exceptions. Electronic items, books and magazines, must be held or put in the seat back pocket during the actual takeoff and landing roll. Cell phones should be in airplane mode or with cellular service disabled – i.e., no signal bars displayed—and cannot be used for voice communications based on FCC regulations that prohibit any airborne calls using cell phones. If your air carrier provides Wi-Fi service during flight, you may use those services. You can also continue to use short-range Bluetooth accessories, like wireless keyboards. ..."

More info

YOGASANITY- Weight Loss at Happy Buddha Aruba

Yogasanity Pre-Christmas weight loss and body sculpt program

14 intense yoga classes to shape your mind and tone your body.

More info Happy Buddha Aruba

Traffic on Aruba

ARUBA- The traffic on our beautiful island is sometimes very congested in some places. There are a lot of people driving from different countries and have all different driving styles. The rules and traffic laws are almost the same all over the world, (just some small difference). Rules like keep on driving on the right side is the same all over the world. Stay in your lane is applicable when you are in a traffic jam.

However on the way to the hotels (the two lane road) almost everyone keeps on driving in the left lane. Officially you are not allowed to pass on the right, in an collision you are wrong, you’re only allowed to pass on the right if the car on the left of you signals to turn left.

10 tips for travelling solo

Link: 10 tips for travelling solo

How Has the Weather Been in Aruba?

October through mid-January has always been the rainy season in Aruba. La Niña in 2010-2012 did bring more rain to the island however things are now back to normal. The Aruba Department of Meteorology had only recorded 6.27 inches of rain January to August this year. Unofficial rainfall up to October 20 is closer to 10 inches, which is only slightly below average.

Keep in mind, that if there is a tropical storm or low in the area there will be higher quantities of rain. Having said that, the rain in Aruba, even during rainy season falls mainly overnight and early morning with an occasional passing shower (those happen all year 'round) during the day.

We have been to Aruba 3 times during rainy season- Christmas & New Years (twice) and once mid-January. 2 out of 3 trips we saw very little rain. One trip over Christmas and New Years we had rain every single day. HOWEVER, the rain on all but 2 of a 13 day vacation was always over and the sun out shining brightly by 10 am. One day was overcast and one day was morning sprinkles off and on. The day of sprinkles the sun was out and skies clear at 3 pm. We toured the island on the overcast day and snorkeled on the sprinkle day. ;)

How Many Seats Are Left On the Plane?

Booking codes, booking classes or fare classes, the term means the same thing. It specifies the rules for an airline's fare. Booking codes vary by airline and are specific to individual airlines. A rough guide is:

F: first class
J: business class
Y: economy class

Everyone has to live by the rules and we all know that airlines have plenty of rules. How do you find out whether or not the ticket you are purchasing is refundable? How do you know if you have one of the cheapest tickets available on your flight? ... more

Fall Is In Full Swing In Aruba With "Arubapalooza"

ORANJESTAD, Aruba, Oct. 15, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Summer may be over on the mainland, but the fun is just beginning in Aruba, known as the One happy island. Fall marks the start of "Arubapalooza," the sunny island's seasonal extravaganza encompassing countless cultural, culinary, music and fashion-oriented events and festivals. Known for its perfect weather and powdery white beaches, Aruba is celebrated as one of the most revisited destinations in the Caribbean.

EPB Hospitality Students Host 3-Course Lunch Two times per week starting October 15, 2013

October 10th, 2013- During their graduation year, the students of the EPB (Educacion Profesional Basico), basic professional training high school, need to practice what they learned, while interacting with each other and clients in real-life restaurant situations. The Aloe Restaurant and its professional commercial kitchen is where these students train and invite the general public to enjoy a three-course lunch for only Afl. 25,00 per person [$13.97 USD], every Tuesday and Wednesday to work towards their diploma. Lunch is served every Tuesday and Wednesday from noon to 2 p.m. starting October 15, 2013 until November 13, 2013 when they go on break for the holidays. The restaurant opens again on January 14, 2014 and closes March 13, 2014 which is at the end of the academic year.

Aruba's Arikok National Park

Nature & Conservation at Arikok National Park

The protected area of National Park Arikok was officially established in 2000. Arikok National Park is a 34 square kilometers (7907 acres) of natural area, located at the north-eastern part of Aruba which contains examples of most of the island’s flora and fauna against a backdrop of great geological complexity. We are proud to state that approximately 18% of the total land area of Aruba is assigned as a National Park, to protect and preserve the flora, fauna, geology and historical remains present within Arikok National Park.

Price: $10 USD per person. Children under 17 years are free.

Contact the park directly for guided hiking tours.

Downloadable Map of Arikok National Park

New Survey Finds Americans Feel They Need Help With Romance; Marriott Caribbean & Mexico Resorts Responds With “Cupid On Call”

New Program Designed to Help Guests Say “I Love You” ...or Maybe “I’m Sorry”

October 10, 2013 NEW YORK, NY- According to a new survey of more than 850 Americans conducted by Marriott Caribbean & Mexico Resorts, a majority feel that, when it comes to love, they are more romantic than their partners but could still use a little help to spark passion in their relationship.

The survey also found an overwhelming 92 percent of respondents agreeing that traveling as a couple provides sparks in the relationship, however 51 percent felt they don’t plan amorous getaways often enough. More than 57 percent of respondents also lamented that, when it came to remembering anniversaries and special occasions, their partner was more likely to be the forgetful one.

The Divi & Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusives Earn High Honors From Multiple Travel Industry Organizations

Leading Travel Organizations Continue to Recognize the Sister Properties for Excellence

ORANJESTAD, ARUBA – (October 10, 2013) – In what is becoming yet another banner year for the properties, the Divi & Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusives have received distinctions of excellence from several top travel organizations including TripAdvisor®, MLT Vacations SM, Apple Vacations®, Travelife and Zoover.

“It is very gratifying to see such prestigious travel sites continuing to give high marks to the Divi & Tamarijn Aruba, particularly considering today’s highly competitive marketplace,” said Alex Nieuwmeyer, Managing Director of the Divi Resorts Aruba and Bonaire. “Whether based on guest reviews submitted by travelers or by audits conducted by the organizations themselves, our efforts to distinguish our resorts as industry leaders continue to bring us success. This is largely due to the devoted efforts of our wonderful staff, who clearly share in Divi’s commitment to excellence.”

Daily Thanksgiving Activities at the Ritz Carlton Aruba

Thanksgiving Daily Activities

Saturday November 23 – Friday, November 29, 2013
Beach, Sun and Fun Adventures – 9 a.m. - 10 a.m.
Bring the whole family for some beach games under the sun and meet other kids and families.

Windsurfing Clinic – 10 a.m.
Learn how to windsurf with the Instructor from Vela Surf Center.

Gobble Gobble Cookie & Cupcake Décor – 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Decorate a sweets-o-licious cookie and cupcake treat for you and a friend or family member. Reservations are required 24 hours in advance

U.S. Department of State & Passport Services During the Federal Government Shutdown

Passport service remain normal at the time of this writing.

In the event of a lapse in appropriations, the Department of State will continue passport and visa operations as well as provide critical services to U.S. citizens overseas.

Processing time for passport applications remain at four weeks or less for routine service and two weeks door-to-door for expedited service.

Customers planning to travel within two weeks or requiring passports to obtain foreign visas should make an appointment at the nearest passport agency.

Check for updates to the situation.

Delta Introduces Smart Travel Pack Options

Skymiles Members May Purchase A Package of Enhanced Travel Benefits for $199 with Unlimited Use Through January 5 Popular Add-On Conveniences Include Up to Eight Travel Companions

ATLANTA, Sept. 13, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL) will begin offering a new travel option for SkyMiles customers which provides access to some of the airline's most popular enhanced travel extras such as checked bags, priority boarding and seat selection for $199. The new package, called Smart Travel Pack, introduces a practical and affordable way for customers to add a suite of extra services and additional comfort for their upcoming business or personal travel.

How Many Seats Are Left On the Plane?

People automatically go to a plane's seating chart to judge how many seats are still available in trying to decide when to book a flight. Who can blame them for want to get the best price, yet, not get shut out of buying a seat all together. They see there are only one or two seats still available and panic sets in. Well hold on a second.

From past experience, those seating charts do not always show how many seats are still available. ...more

Walking on water in Aruba

Stand up paddleboards in Aruba and more

Link: Walking on water in Aruba | Easier

Thanksgiving at the Ritz Carlton Aruba

Thanksgiving at the Ritz's Solanio Italian Trattoria

$90.00 for adults w/o champagne
$125.00 w. Bloody Mary & Champagne
Kids Ages 6-12 = $45.00
Ages 3-5 = $20.00
Under 3 Free

Cured Fish Station & American Caviar Station

Gravlax and assorted House Smoked Seafood
Salmon, Trout
Chopped Egg white & Egg yolks, Capers, Crème Fraiche and Bagel Chips

US Government Shutdown & Impact to Travel

There will be no impact on travel if the United States government shuts down.

Travelers in U.S. won't see snarls from government shutdown

"(Reuters) - Air and rail travelers in the United States should not feel a big impact if Congress fails to avert a government shutdown on Tuesday, since passport inspectors, security officers and air traffic controllers will all continue to work as usual.

When Is the Best Time to Buy Airfare?

Researchers in the Department of Economics at Texas A&M University studied a historical archive of airline ticket purchases and found the best deals are on the weekend.

Newswise— While folk wisdom has its place, the “folks” may not be so wise when it comes to shopping for airline tickets, say researchers at Texas A&M University.

“There’s been this industry folk wisdom that says Tuesdays and Wednesdays are the best days to purchase airline tickets,” says Steven Puller, an associate professor of economics at Texas A&M who specializes in industrial organization. “But we couldn’t find any systematic analysis to back that up.”

Rather, he says, the weekend is the best time to book airline tickets because airlines are more likely to discount fares on Saturday and Sunday.

Final grand prize in Festival of Prizes for the Aruban Donkey Sanctuary

We have kept the best for last, must have been the thought of Setar and the Aruban Donkey Sanctuary, because we have a wonderful, terrific prize for this final week of our Festival of Prizes. When you sms the word Burico on your Setar phone to number 250, you get a chance to win and all-inclusive weekend for two in the great Occidental Resort for just AWG. 3,--.

Discover Your Play Time at the Radisson Aruba Resort, Casino & Spa

Complimentary Play Time events and activities September 16 - December 21, 2013

Adventure- for the adrenaline junkies

• Distance swims and 3.1 mile beach runs with the resort's General Manager
• Bicycle tours to the Lighthouse
• African Dance workout, Zumba and Aqua Aerobics

Rejuvenation- for those searching for Zen

Dinner for Two in Festival of Prizes

Just two more weeks to go in the Setar Fiesta of Prizes for the Aruban Donkey Sanctuary. When one sms-es the word `Burico’ to number 250 with your Setar phone, you might be the lucky winner of a Dinner for Two at top restaurant Marandi. Dream away on the shore of this romantic place while sipping your drink before choosing one of the delicious options of Marandi’s menu.

Participate and chance to win an evening at popular Marandi Restaurant, where excellent quality and service are guaranteed, while supporting the construction of the new sanctuary at Bringamosa.

A Multi-Generational Vacation for the Whole Family

Thinking of the perfect place for a Christmas gathering? Why not Aruba?

Ten years ago, 3 generations of our family living in 3 separate parts of the country, began spending Christmas and New Year's together on either cruises or in Aruba on a land vacation. We started our holiday vacations when my grandmother was a young 90 years old and our dd was 8 years old and my nieces and nephew were 10, 12 and 15.

For us, up this year is the Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort.

Getting Drenched in Aruba

This week you may stand a chance of winning a diving excursion including instructions. All you have to do is send the word BURICO to number 250.

This is an exclusive action by Setar, especially organized for the Aruban Donkey Sanctuary. Each time you send this message you stand a chance of winning this great prize donated by Red Sail Sports. And all this for only three florins!

Palm Beach Plaza Mall Steel Pan Night

Looking for something different for an evening activity while in Aruba?

Palm Beach Plaza Mall now offers a Steel Pan night each Tuesday 8 pm to 10 pm.

9-11 & A Heavy Heart Once Again

It has taken me this many years since September 11, 2001 to write this post. 9-11 did not affect everyone in our country, but it touched many.

So let me say that this year on 9-11 I will share the story of a couple of men, brothers, from my hometown. They were nephews of friends of my parents. Their grandmother was friends with my grandmother and lived at the house down the street, on the corner, from my Aunt. I have known this family my entire life. Enough time has passed that I can finally share their story.

Donkey Sanctuary in the clouds

The festival of prizes for the Aruban Donkey Sanctuary has been going on for a few weeks already. Every week there are new prizes to be won for participants who have a Setar phone. You can easily win by just sending the word BURICO to number 250 and for just AWG. 3,-- you are in the race for a prize.

Aruba by Cruise Ship: Diving One of the Caribbean's Best Wrecks

Link: Aruba by Cruise Ship: Diving One of the Caribbean's Best Wrecks

See Aruba Bound! for additional information on scuba diving in Aruba

Holiday Inn Aruba Drink Secrets

Holiday Inn Aruba @HolidayInnAruba

Want to learn #Aruba drink secrets?Take our #bartending class Mon, Wed & Sat at 2PM! pic.twitter.com/Lsqr0G9hpA

When Should You Book Your Flight Well In Advance?

Generally the travel experts recommend that you book air travel no more than 7 weeks in advance.

Today I would like to take a moment to contradict that advice, especially if you are flying during a peak travel time such as Christmas.

For our upcoming visit to Aruba over Christmas and New Years, we purchased our tickets on February 23 for $709.40. Today, September 3, the price for the same itinerary is $1648 per person. That is for a coach class seat in both directions.

Opening of the Ritz-Carlton, Aruba

Here are the introductory prices for 2 people based upon a 7 night stay. The resort is now open for bookings from November 22, 2013 forward.

November 22, 2013
Queen, Limited view $649 +$160 taxes= $809 per night
King, Ocean view $799 + $197 taxes= $996 per night

December 24, 2013
Queen, Limited view $1,029 + $252 taxes= $1281 per night
King, Ocean view $1,329 + $326 taxes= $1655 per night

Aruba Weather

Palm Beach Plaza Mall Carnival Night

Looking for something different for an evening activity while in Aruba?

Palm Beach Plaza Mall now offers a Carnival night each Monday 8 pm to 10 pm.