Friday, October 9, 2009

Why an Aruba Vacation Is A Big Thing in A Small Package

By Rafael Wallace

Going on a Caribbean adventure is not likely to be cheap. This is why if you have to spend some good, solid cash, you should much rather settle for a location that packs a big punch. One good vacation spot to consider is Aruba. Even with limited time, you can expect a lot of fun that is worth the expense.

Not everyone knows this but Aruba is actually a part of the Netherlands. Before it even became part of it though, Aruba was formerly a Spanish colony. If anything else, this rare mix of Dutch and Latin influence is well worth exploring. You will find the mixture aptly reflected in local architecture and culture. Aside from this unique cultural and historical atmosphere, there are other reasons why Aruba is a great tourist stop.

Unfortunately, Arubas downside is its weather and climate. The island is delightfully situated away from the storm belt so you can expect great, sunny weather for most of the year. Of course, great weather has to be qualified. While in Aruba, you can expect more than just the sun shining on you. It is also the recipient of gentle trade winds so you can reasonably expect cool days even when the sun is at its hottest.

There are other reasons to visit Aruba and one of these is its size. Of all the Caribbean locations, this island is one of the smallest. Instead of being a disadvantage though, its smallness is actually an advantage both for the tourists and the islands tourism industry. While other destinations necessarily limit your movements due to time constraints, Aruba offers all of itself to daring explorers. You can spend your Aruba vacation on a jeep ride exploring the islands many interesting corners.

Indeed the bold have a lot to enjoy in and around Aruba. For a true rugged experience, start your trip on the less inhabited regions of the north. A top northern destination is the California Lighthouse where you get the most breathtaking view of the islands surrounding natural splendor.

You might prefer a more complete natural experience. A great first spot to explore is the Arikok National Park on the eastern side of the island. The park makes up one fourth of the islands entire land area and is a haven for hikers and nature lovers who are at their best at the bosom of Mother Nature. The park has the best selections of diverse animal and plant life as well as amazing natural canyons and caves.

Since Aruba is an island, it can not be without its underwater and on-water adventures. Aruba is the proud location of more than forty dive sites. Many of these feature real shipwrecks that neophyte explorers can comb and swim around in. Aside from diving, another popular water pastime is windsurfing. Thanks to the constant trade winds, Aruba is a windsurfers paradise.

Aruba may be small. An Aruba vacation does however more than make up for what it lacks in land size. With the wealth of activities and escapades it has to offer, any tourist will find the visit well worth the expense.

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