Caribbean happiness in Aruba

Caribbean happiness in Aruba

Could Aruba be the happiest place in the world? We find out on a blissful twin-centre break and island exploration

Words: Sandy Cadiz-Smith

The Caribbean island of Aruba proudly promotes itself as ‘One Happy Island’. Located just off the coast of Venezuela it’s celebrated for its picture-perfect white-sand beaches, dazzling turquoise waters and year-round sunny weather (it’s located outside the hurricane belt). And the warmth extends beyond the tropical climate to the people’s hearts, making for an incredibly welcoming atmosphere. What else could you need in the pursuit of happiness?

Well there’s more. Aruba also offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Beyond the beaches (rated as some of the best in the world), there’s rugged Arikok National Park, the island’s dramatic, untamed wilderness. For the active at heart there are watersports and hiking opportunities aplenty and foodies will discover an impressive array of restaurants serving surprisingly excellent and diverse cuisine.

Aruba also weaves a rich cultural tapestry reflecting its Dutch heritage intertwined with influences from Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean and there are myriad colourful festivals to enjoy throughout the year.

Caribbean happiness in Aruba
Our Aruba adventure begins at The Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino (above and top) on Palm Beach – top spot for honeymoons and destination weddings

Our two-centre break starts in the Aruba’s high-rise hotel neighbourhood at the luxurious Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino. It’s right on beautiful Palm Beach with multiple pools, bars and restaurants and proves to be the perfect base for exploring the island. There’s so much to see.

We sail around the island, snorkelling the colourful coral reefs and swimming in the balmy waters before enjoying an onboard barbecue. We take to the hills by jeep for a bone-rattling, adrenaline-inducing tour of Arikok National Park. And enjoy a rejuvenating meditation in the peace and beauty of the Aruba Butterfly Farm. 

Caribbean happiness in Aruba
Aruba is blessed with some of the finest sunbathing spots, including Baby Beach

We take a walk through the charming town of San Nicolas with streets adorned with magnificent street art and stock up on restorative locally made aloe products at Royal Aruba Aloe. And of course we enjoy plenty of beach time at the likes of Baby Beach, Mangel Halto and Eagle Beach. Aruba is home to seriously sigh-inducing beaches.

When it’s time to eat, we sample a range of fabulous restaurants across the island and one night we enjoy a private sunset picnic on the beach. All uniquely special and delicious experiences.

Caribbean happiness in Aruba
For the second half of our stay, we head to Divi & Tamarijn, a wonderful all-inclusive on a gorgeous stretch of beach

For the second half of our stay we move to the all-inclusive Divi & Tamarijn for a different vibe and holiday experience. The low-rise hotel has rooms scattered through the gardens and along the beach. Ours is set right on the hotel’s stunning beach and the view from our balcony takes our breath away. We’re just a few steps from that white powdery sand and bluest of blue sea and the characteristic divi trees wave lightly in the ocean breeze.

We take it down a gear and spend our days revelling in the luxury and beauty of our surroundings. From beach bed lounging to leisurely walks, dips in the ocean and sunset cocktails, it’s everything anyone could dream about from an island escape. Walking into the sea is like wading through the softest cotton-wool ever, it’s warm and crystal clear and the azure shades are astounding. Pelicans dive for fish around us with speed and majesty.

Caribbean happiness in Aruba
Our room at Divi & Tamarijn is a cool and luxurious retreat – and the views of the ocean are spectacular

There are five fine dining restaurants (make sure you book ahead) and more casual bars and grills to choose from. And the food is incredible, from Italian to Mediterranean, Mexican and classic international cuisine and our favourite set-menu tapas with sunset views at Club Margot. And we love the Pelican Bar, shaded by the divi trees and hanging over the sea for bare-footed cocktails straight off the beach and early evening vino. We enjoy every facility at our oceanside utopia for four heavenly sun-filled days. The ultimate in relaxation and indulgence.

We leave Aruba sun-kissed and sandy-footed with smiles on our faces and that unique Aruban happiness and warmth enveloping our hearts and bodies. The joys of Aruba have exceeded its reputation. There’s no doubt the island lives up to its highly aspirational nickname.

Caribbean happiness in Aruba
Ocean view suite at the Marriott – which has a selection of unique outdoor event spaces

Planning an Aruba wedding

Aruba is the perfect place for a honeymoon, but if you’re thinking of getting married here The Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino has a stunning oceanfront location with unique outdoor event spaces to accommodate between 10 and 500 guests. There are several packages to choose from, and with Marriott Certified Wedding Planners who can help coordinate all styles of weddings. They will also assist with event budgets, menus, tablesettings and tried-and-trusted local suppliers.

The hotel’s expert planners are on hand to make wedding dreams a reality. Each Marriott Certified Wedding Planner is qualified to coordinate weddings of all types. They can help determine an overall vision and help to execute every detail. That includes setting an event budget; deciding on a menu; arranging table settings; and finding florists, photographers, a band and other entertainment for the big day. marriott.com

Caribbean happiness in Aruba
There’s so much to explore in Aruba, with spectacular scenery and a rich local culture

Aruba fact box

Key Aruba names to know if you’re planning a visit

Divi & Tamarijn – diviandtamarijn

Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino – marriott.com

Monforte Luxury Cruises – monfortecruise.com

ABC Tours – abc-aruba.com

Picnic Aruba – picnicaruba.com

Aruba Butterfly Farm – thebutterflyfarm.com

Royal Aruba Aloe – arubaaloe.com

Caribbean happiness in Aruba
Festivals happen throughout the year, and restaurants range from local finds to internationally renowned

And 4 recommended restaurants

There are some excellent restaurants in Aruba, and here are four we particularly enjoyed:

Bohemian – French flair with a bohemian twist in a lively setting

Zeerovers – locals’ favourite on the dock specialising in fresh fish and shrimp

Lima Bistro – a must visit for delicious modern flavours from Peru, with an Aruban twist

West Deck – delightful and laidback beach grill and beach bar at Linear Park.