Expert: Andy Mendyk - 6/10/2007

Question
QUESTION: Any day trips available to mainland South America, perhaps Venezuela? Colombia?

ANSWER: Hi Andrew! First, consider the U.S State Dept. warnings for travel to Venezuela. I do not want to elaborate, but it's not so good there with demonstrations, shootings, kidnappings, carjackings, daytime robberies and muggings happening 24 hours a day there!. Columbia...once again, go to the State Dept. and read about restrictions and warnings to this country. There also are no "day trips" of an escorted nature from Aruba ( due to all the above) However, if you really want to go, there are flights to those 2 countries daily from Beatrix Airport. Check with them on your arrival, as their schedules are erratic at times. Also, before you go, contact the U.S. Consulate in those countries if you plan on going there as to your arrival date. This is for your safety. Good Luck!

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

QUESTION: Thank you.  Forgot about the State Dept warnings.  Was hoping somehow to step on South American soil while down there!
Is day trip to Curacao worth it.  Not really interested in sailing with the dolphins.  Done that several times already.  Would check out Curacao if different from Aruba.  Any day trips that's more like touring the island.  Anything to see in Willemsted??
Would renting a car in Aruba for more than 2 days be worth it?  We are staying at Aruba Beach Club.
Again, thank you for your help!

Answer
Hello again!  Curacao would be a nice trip for a day. I feel it is much more "Dutch" than Aruba. Also better shopping! There are multiple flights back and forth daily. I find that public transportation is better ( bus and taxi) if you want to go downtown, or to a few local resturants. For me, ends up being cheaper then a car rental, with no hassles that come with rentals. Aruba Beach Club...you will like it there. I am an owner there and bought a unit 20 years ago. It's quiet, not too crowded as the high rise hotels are. Neat, clean, and a great beach! You can also share the grounds with Casa Del Mar, which is attached to ABC.