Expert: Andy Mendyk - 4/7/2006

Question
Hi Andy
THank you so much for giving me your picks of the best hotels on the island.  I have 1 more question (actually 2).
#1  You said that you like the Marriot Stellas and the Hyatt.  Could you tell me what you DONT like about the Raddison.  

#2  You said that I might look into the Marriott Ocean Suites and they are downtown.  I dont know what downtown means (are they on Palm Beach).

#3 (I know i said 2 :)
You said Hyatt is one of your top picks however I was told that they have balconies you cant go out on (is that true).  They are called french balconies.  

#4 (FINAL QUESTION for real) (SMILE).
I think I am leaning toward the Marriott Stellaris (however I am not quite 100% certain yet).  Which one between the Marriott Stellaris and the Raddison has the largest beach area.

#5 And also I was reading on the raddison website that they have a zero-entry pool - do you know what that means?

Agains, thank you so much Andy for helping me decide.  I am so looking forward to my trip.  I will drop you a line when i return.  Again thank you so much for helping me.  

Answer
OK DEB!  First..a "Zero Entry" pool means it is a pool without steps to enter the water. It gradually slopes downward into the water. Good for older folks and people with walking disabilities. I do not prefer the Raddison, because when people book trips thru an agecy, this is one of the prefered hotels (like the whyndam, Holiday Inn, etc.) Usually a lot of people, with kids, and teens drinking and causing disturbances. The Marriot is usually for upper scale clients who want quiet, luxurious sorroundings, and a great quality room. The Hyatt has balconies, but are about 2 to 3 feet in depth. Can't put a chair on them, but just to go out, lean on the railings and enjoy the view(s). For me, it's not an issue, but some people have their preferences! The beach areas for both properties are about the same, but the only diff is that the Raddison has more people on it!  It may look smaller since there are more people utilizing the sand! When I go to my timeshare in august, the beach area is a bit smaller, but looks deserted due to not having that many guests there at that time of year. (I own at The Aruba Beach Club) Please let me know how everything turns out!! You can also contact me via E-mail at fly747a300@aol.com  Hope to hear from you!!