By Angela Fairhurst
According to data from the Caribbean Tourism Organization, tourism in Aruba is booming. Maybe it’s the warm weather and turquoise waters, the aloe, or the plethora of outdoor activities, but whatever the case, the island saw an astonishing 16.2 percent increase in stay-over visitor arrivals in the first half of 2015, making it the Caribbean’s fastest-growing destination and making the slogan “one happy island” accurate.
Situated on the popular Palm Beach, just seven miles from the airport, is the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino, a 411-guest room hotel including 23 suites. All the rooms are spacious, averaging over 500 square feet, with each room having a 100 square foot balcony and views of the Caribbean. Renovated in 2008, the minimalist design includes state-of-the-art technology, LCD televisions, Marriott’s indulgent Revive bedding, contemporary dual sink fixtures, and rain-style shower heads.
Located on the top floor of the resort, the Tradewinds Club, which was newly built as part of the 2008 renovations, is a 49-room boutique hotel within the resort that provides personalized service and exclusive perks and amenities. The privileges include five times per day food and beverage offerings in the Tradewinds Lounge, personal concierge, unpacking, pressing, and reserved beach seating with oversized beach towels. Tradewinds Club guests must be over 18 years of age.
Aside from the main free-form pool with waterfalls and swim-up bar, there is a 10,000-square-foot adults-onlyH2Oasis poolwhere iguanas wander freely. It has luxury cabanas and a full bar.
There are a total of nine bars and restaurants. Atari is the fine dining option where dinner is served on the sand. Also available are the legendary Ruth Chris Steakhouse; restaurant La Vista; Champions Sports Bar and Grill located at the Marriott’s Aruba Ocean Club; Ketsu Sushi Bar located in the lobby; Waves Beach Bar & Grill for light fare, the Swim-Up Bar, as well as the Lobby Bar which is open 24-hours. Gambling is available until 4am nightly at the Stellaris Casino.
The Mandara Spa has 300 different treatment options including traditional and classic techniques, as well as those indigenous to the area.
Beach Tennis is a hugely popular sport in Aruba, a combination of tennis and beach volleyball. The Aruba Marriott has a court for guests to use and a short walk up the beach are two professional courts at Moomba Beach Bar & Cafe. All in all, if you are looking for the classic Caribbean beach holiday, the Aruba Marriott will not disappoint.
