Expert: Andy Mendyk - 3/18/2004

Question
Thanks for the feedback.  I will check into the Aruba Beach Club.  At this location, can you tell me a little about the beach?  Chairs, shade, close access to any water activities.  Thanks again.

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Followup To
Question -
I would like to visit Aruba with my family (kids are 14, 10 and 8).  Last time I was there was over 15 years ago (we stayed at the Hyatt).  What do you recommend for a family?  We are looking for something directly on the beach (also with a pool).  We are all not big eaters, so the all-inclusive was out and not worth the $$.  Let me know if you have any suggestions.

Thanks.
Answer -
Hi Randy! Aruba has changed a lot (for the better) since your last visit 15 years ago. Hyatt is way out of line on prices, and I consider all inclusive packages a big waste of money. I never recommend those, as there are plenty of places to eat, and the prices are not too bad, wether it's a fine resturant or American fast food places. But...I would contact Aruba Beach Club =  www.arubabeachclub.net
It is a timeshare facility, and they do rent rooms at a price that is not outrageous. They are situated right on the beachfront...2 pools (as they share the facilities with Casa Del Mar). Resturants on premises, Subway across the street, Alhambra Casino also. All rooms have small kitchens in them, with a small store in the lobby, or you can go to a supermarket to buy groceries and prepare the food in the room. Time saving and economical on the food issue. The facility is super clean, great security and very quiet. Not luxuirous as the Hyatt, but when you can save almost a hundres bucks a night..it's well worth it. In fact, I am an owner there, and I love it. Go to their website, browse around, and I think you will fine it a nice place to be for the price. If there is anything else in particular I can help you with, please feel free to call on me again!!

Answer
Hi Randy...The Club has a central building and a wing on each side. Between the wings is the pool and pool deck. The beach is right on the edge of the pool deck, and the side wing buildings end right on the sand. So, no matter where you are located, the beach is about a 30 second walk or less once you get outside the building. There are plenty of chairs situated throughout the pool/beach areas, with plenty of "chickees" for shade. There are also some parts of the pool that offer shade during certain times of the day. The best thing I like is that I am only a 45 second walk from the water, to my room. I do a bit of snorkeling during the early part of the day before noon, but watersports items are not available at the Beach Club, but jet ski, banana boat rides and such are available  just below the Divi Resort area and the Tamarijn. (a 10 minute walk down from ABC) You can check more on www.aruba4u.com
and www.arubabound.com  (follow the links). Also, in the "link" area, the lobbt between ABC and Casa Del Mar, there is a kiosk for activities, and they can set you up with about any kind of activity you want. Large operators on the Island is RedSail Sports, and DePalm tours. You can also get Toyota car rentals on premises if you do not elect to rent one at the airport. Car rental agencies are directly across the street at the arrivals section of the airport. If you need any more help...I am here!!!