Expert: Andy Mendyk - 8/17/2007

Question
QUESTION: i am staying at the westin 8/22-8/30 and was looking for restaurant suggestions and also any comments you may have on the hotel.  also, i heard there were some ATV Tour Operators who actually let you get off the ATV and explore  our first trip in ten years so i want as much info as possible thanks

ANSWER: Hi Jenn!  I will be on the island during your stay also! The Westin is a good complex. Have not heard any "bad" reports like some others. You should enjoy it there. Resturants???  Hundreds. The most popular are El Gauchos, Madame Janetes, and "Cuba's Cookin'. As you browse flyers, there are sooo many to choose from! Plenty of tour operators, but they are starting to crack down on the ATV stuff there...too many serious accidents/injuries. ( as early as yesterday). With so many options on operators, ( all of them are good) I can only recommend looking at the flyers, to choose schedules/destinations vs. pricing. Not that much has changed there in 10 years, just more hotels and traffic! Otherwise, the Island is fairly quiet at that time of year. ( That's why I go at that time) I may pass you somewhere at the airport ( arrive at 3PM) If there is anything else I can help you with, contact me before Tuesday! Also, with the hurricane passing North of the Island, It may slow the wind, so be prepared for the temps to be a bit hotter than usual. (Low to mid 90's)

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: we are arriving from NY via Jet Blue at 1pm.  do you know about how long it takes to usually clear customs?  Where are you staying?  We were trying to get into the Bucuti but unfort. they were all booked up.  I am hoping there is not too much construction around us.  Also, I heard the flying fishbone was a good restaurant to try.  Is it worth the price just to sit in the water to eat?  Is Tierra the only golf course on the island?  Thanks again for all your helpful info

Answer
Hi Jen.. You should clear customs, pick up luggage and be outside for the taxi/rental car area within 1/2 hour or less. Flying Fishbone is another good resturant 9 too add to the many) . And there is the Divi Links at the low-rise section ( next to Divi Dutch Village). You will pass it on the way to the westin. I will be at the Marriott Renaisannce Marina ( downtown) Wed. to Sat., and at my timeshare ( Aruba Beach Club) from that Saturday to the following Saturday. Will be flying A/A from Bradley to San Juan to Aruba, so you will be arriving 2 hours prior to me!  The Bucuti is just a 4 minute walk from Aruba Beach Club. Too bad you couldnt get in there! Maybe we can meet up somewhere!!  All I do is lounge around and hit the casinos for a well needed rest!