Hotels and Resorts in Aruba

Aruba's hotels and resorts aim to please even the most discriminating tastes

Hotel, Motel, Stay Inn

Aruba hotels and resorts offer a variety of looks and designs to accommodate all types of travelers. Hotels and resorts are practically synonymous in Aruba, and can be low-rise or high-rise. Guesthouses offer an alternative form of accommodation, but can be hard to come by. When booking an Aruba hotel or resort, look for special packages.

Rates

Aruba hotel rates are somewhat complex because they vary during certain months. Usually the prices quoted are"rack rates,"which are the set price told to any walk-in travelers. Keep in mind that a hotel property marked"expensive" could actually be cheaper than a"moderate" hotel with the right deals. If calling a particular hotel's toll-free number, you will be directed to a reservation service, not the hotel's front desk. The best thing to do is to call the hotel directly and ask about specific packages and promotional rates.

Aruba hotels and resorts usually charge an 11 percent room tax. Ten to 15 percent is added as a service charge to food and beverage bills.

Resorts/Hotels

Most Aruba hotels are self-contained resorts with a bustling atmosphere. If you are looking for South Beach-esque glamor, reserve a room in Palm Beach. Most of the glitzy high-rise hotels are located here on"High-rise Road" (more officially known as J.E. Irausquin Boulevard). Hotels, restaurants, and nightlife are all in close proximity, so walking is the recommended transportation option if you want to take in the sights.

However, if the Palm Beach scene is out of your price range, consider nearby Eagle Beach with its multitude of low-rise hotels on the aptly-named"Low-rise Road." While they are less posh than the high-rise hotels, low-rises offer more space. This area has been recommended for those who enjoy a"beach bum" type of vacation.

Guesthouses

Booking a guesthouse is difficult due to their faithful following. Essentially, guesthouses are smaller versions of rental villas with the same informal type of setting. If you find an available guesthouse, you'll want to reserve it well in advance of your scheduled trip.

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