Recommendations for Aruba

[Scuba-Steve525]

I hadn't realized there would be such a heated response about asking for a recommendation! For the record, our trip to Aruba was planned as a vacation for relaxation. We've been there before during a cruise and loved the beaches. So having nothing to do after a little diving is perfect!

However, since we are going to be there though, we thought we would look into doing some diving. Hence the request for a recommended dive center. We do realize there are much better places to dive and will definitely look for input from SB enthusiasts when we plan a trip with diving as the priority. Thanks for everyone's input.

 

[rhlee]

This 'boycott' is total bullcrap. Aruba is easily the best carribean island I've visited with the friendliest people.

As for diving, we went with www.nativedivers.com, and they were excellent.

 

[rhlee]

... they (native divers) have newer (better) boats than pictured on their website.

 

[Missdirected]

I agree with JimJam about the safety. No issues on that whatsoever i even had my thirteen year old little sister with me.

Horseback riding, yes, but they have that everywhere. Restaurants - we researched and found a couple of very nice ones.

I am one to go and do everything possible while away on vacation. In Costa Rica for instance, besides diving I did the following: Whitewater rafting, jungle tours, quad rides through the jungle, deep sea fishing, sailfishing, and the list goes on. Aruba just didn't do it for me. Lots of young bored honeymooners and not much to do. Culture...as I said very westernized. Just my humble little opinion. I like when there is more to offer. If i choose to sit on the beach then so be it - but I don't want that to be it.

One more the the Renaissance and Radisson have an ok casino. The Renaissance has a private beach/island as well. The island has about 8 captive (wings clipped) flamingos - that was pretty neat.

Good luck and good diving no matter where you go.

 

[Missdirected]

I AM TOTALLY SHOCKED BY EVERYONE'S COMMENTS...

The best thing we did in Aruba was rent a jeep. Granted, they make no qualms about advertising that you are in a rented vehicle, but we took that Jeep all over the island and we had a BLAST everywhere we went! I can't believe you are saying that there is nothing to do after the dive! We had trouble finding time to just sit and relax by the pool! We would throw our snorkelling gear in the back of the jeep and drive around until we found a good snorkeling spot and just pull off the side of the road and hop in. Likewise, we never were at any loss for a GREAT place to eat or shop, or go horseback riding or ANYTHING we wanted to. We went to the world famous Charlie's Bar in San Nicolas...which I would highly recommend.

I'm sorry to say this, but if you don't "have anything to do after a dive" it's because you're not looking for anything to do...which is perfectly fine too, just don't make a claim that there ISN'T anything to do....

Steve, you will have a great time!!! Don't get caught up with the media hype just because 1 american is missing and probably dead. It is a totally isolated incident. My wife and I drove around the island at all hours of the day and night, and NEVER ONCE did we feel in any kind of danger...It is unfortunate that this whole thing has happened, because of ALL the caribbean island, I would say Aruba has to be the best balance of safety, good diving and plenty of topside activity. Don't let a few nay-sayers discourage you...like with anything, you can choose to have a great time or not; that is entirely you decision. If you are a person who likes to have a good time, then you will have a great time in Aruba.

AND LEARN HOW TO SAY "HELLO" IN THE NATIVE LANGUAGE WHEREVER YOU GO...if for no other reason than simple courtesy.

Holy canolies no need to get upset. Further, I know proper etiquette, and did say hello in their language to which they responed in American. in the end it seems as though the poster of this thread is looking for something laid back anyway - he should enjoy Aruba then.

 

[Scubar]

There is some good diving in Aruba. I dove there in March 2004. There are quite a few wrecks to check out. I dove the Antilla, Pedernalis (which is a plie of rubble), Arashi (Plane) and the Jane C (cement barge used for drugs that was purposely sunk). I think the diving is fine, the water is warm and clear and plenty to see. I dove with Red Sail Sports. http://www.redsailaruba.com/ar_dive.html

 

[JimJam]

"American" ...AKA English

 

[Scuba-Steve525]

Thanks for your imput! And by the way, how do you say hello in their language?

 

[JimJam]

Steve:

A Good Link:

http://www.visitaruba.com/facts/general/language.html

 

[Scuba-Steve525]

Thanks Jim!