Expert: Andy Mendyk - 4/13/2004

Question
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Followup To is july concedered off season?
Question -
my husband and i are travling in july on us airlines .im unsure how many hours we should get to the airport coming home ..have heard so many different stories ..thank you the shrums
Answer -
Hello! All American bound passengers heading back to the States should be at the check-in counter no later then 2 hours before the flight. Although most people recommend 3 hours, it is off season and not that busy at the time. You will get your boarding pass first. Then have to fill out your customs card. (I usually do this outside, as the ticket counters and boarding areas are in 2 seperate buildings). Then you will go to a pre-inspection. (show your boarding passes) Then to Aruban Immigration (quick step). Then to screening ( the carry ons)..  then pick up your luggage for inspection..then to gate.All this helps if you have a passport. If not, an official birth certificate and picture ID will do. There are eateries and duty free shops there, so if you want to browse and/or buy, then head to the airport a bit sooner. Just make sure you are at your gate area 45 minutes before the flight. (15 minutes before the boarding time, as some flights are known to leave a few minutes ahead of schedule) If there is anything else I can help you with, please do not hesitate to call on me again!

Answer
Hi Again!!  Yes...April to November are the months they consider "off-season" there. There is a big difference on how many people are on the Island December to March. Usually there are long lines at food places, Casinos packed, and the like. I go in August, as it is very quiet there (unlike the busy months). I own a timeshare there and am there the last 2 weeks of August and I love the tranquility there! ( I need the relaxation!). This year will be my 22 trip there, so there must be good reason for me to keep on going at that  time. I am sure you will find it enjoyable as much as I do!  If I can help any other way...get in touch!!!