Aruba or Curaçao? I want a relaxing but adventurous 1-week beach holiday from NYC

[Guest]

.. Seems like lots of budget friendly options in both. How do they compare?

[Paula]

We enjoyed Aruba when we went this last year just before Christmas, but we stayed in a residential neighborhood in a two bedroom house with its own pool, a large, covered back porch, and a small covered front porch. We had views of nature. It was so much more chill than resorts. There were lots of things to do on Aruba and the island itself was pretty. We went scuba diving one day and it was okay—not the best and not the worst. That being said, we just booked a month and a half in Curacao for January, 2024. I can’t wait to check it out!

[Inger]

Aruba is a party island. Lots of resorts and bars and very expensive. But fun. Most people are in all inclusives .Curaçao is quieter. Def have Dutch food in either or you’re missing the whole point. Poffertjes, bitteballen and more or you haven’t experienced what the best and what the locals do

[Stephanie]

Did Curaçao in Dec. small island, lots of beaches. National park (but closes at like 3p). One spot to cliff jump. Delicious food. Didn’t do any of the beach clubs or anything, so no night life. We’re more an up early to adventure people than late night stuff.

The Airbnb we stayed at was great, a studio owned by locals. However (and I don’t know if it’s like this on other small islands) but there is NO hot water in most residential homes. Just what can be heated by the sun.

[Mbg]

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