Expert: Andy Mendyk - 10/17/2007

Question
Hi Andy  My husband and I will be in Aruba for our first time in the next couple weeks. I was wondering what you would recommend as far as traveling with cash, credit cards, and/or travelers checks. What combination would you recommend? And, I know everyone has different activities planned during their honeymoon and vacations, but do you have any ideas about how much money we should plan on spending? We plan on relaxing alot and only renting a 4x4 for one day. Maybe just snorkeling or fishing one day and maybe one of the sunset cruises. We are staying at the Caribbean Palm Villas so we have a kitchen to use for snacks, breakfasts, and some meals here and there. Have you had any experiences with the CPV or heard any reviews/complaints from there? Also, my final question, how much on average do drinks(alcoholic and beer) typically run and are there alot of American brand beers and alcohol? Thank you very much for any help you can give us.

Answer
HI kerry! Cash and credit cards will do fine. Most stores will not accept 50 or 100 dollar bills, but you can break them down in any casino. As for spending, I go alone, and only spend about $25.00 per day on food. If you hit resturants, you can plan on spending $40.00 and upwards per person. The kitchen in CPV will save you tons of $$$. There are supermarkets there, so you can purchase/prepare meals in your room. Beer...American brands will cost a bit more than double compared to here. Try the local brand (Balashi) or the popular Venezuelan brand "Polar".  Mixed drink prices will vary depending where you go, but all I can say is that they are much higher than most people expect. It would be a good idea if you purchase duty free, and mix your own also. As for CPV, I have never been there, but I have also never heard a bad word about the facility. As long as it's clean and comfy, thats all that is required for me!  If there is anything else I can help you with, contact me again!!!