Expert: Andy Mendyk - 5/5/2004

Question
We are making our first trip to Aruba this summer and have inititally made reservations at the Aruba Renassaince Hotel and Resort for a Garden Suite.  I am torn as to whether this is the best place to stay or if it would be better to stay somewhere on Palm Beach.  I have a family of four so the one bedroom suite is nice as is the proximity to the amenities in town like shopping and the movie theater.  However, I have heard that one of the pools is right off of the main road in town and the airplanes fly over the private beach throughout the day.  I would like to know your opinion of the resort and its amenities and also what you think the pros and cons of staying there vs Palm Beach are.  Thank you!

Answer
Hi Mark! I am very familiar with this hotel, as I go there every year before i get into my timeshare week. The pool is at lobby level..an overlooks the street. It is out of view unless you stand at the rail. and the street is approx. 30 feet below. The Renassiance Island is quiet, with shuttle service right in the hotel ground level. There is a canal that the boats pick up and drop off the guests going to the Island. Airplanes...also I am a pilot..they do not fly "Over", but the airport the airport is close by across the lagoon. You will only see the aircraft on approach, and they will be to the rearward of you if you are on the beach area. My opinion, I do not see a bother to that, as there is an average flight coming in once every 1/2 hour at the BUSY time..which is between 1:15 and 3:00pm.  Palm Beach area is nice, but does not have the privacy as Rennasiance Island. If you wanted to do any shopping, or go to fancy resturants, you will have  to taxi it, or rent a car. I purposly stay at The Renassiance as there is 2 nice Casinos there. plenty of stores, choices of food, and its all within a 1 to 10 minute walk. Its a classy place to stay..clean, freshly remodeled, and moderately priced. I have seen less for more. I will be there myself 8/18. The complex used to be The Sonesta Beach Resort and Casino, but was bought by Marriott 2 years ago. I have been staying there my last 12 trips. You can try pulling up some pictures and info by going to google.com...click on images  and type in sonesta aruba or rennasiance aruba. It will give you a nice idea how the hotel is laid out. However, if there is anything else I can help you with, please do not hesitate to call on me again!