We, Andrea and me, travelled
to Aruba with our two kids, Nick (5) and Helen (2). Our journey began in Hamburg, Germany,
and we flew KLM via Amsterdam, which is fast, efficient and reliable.
Arriving at the resort we were very disappointed in the first thing, because our
expectations werenīt met. Although the Marriott is just 6 years old (they said, I have no
proof) the balconies were rusty and the distance between the floor and the first railing
bar allows children of up to about 4 years to slip through easily. We have been on the 5th
floor, just imagine...
The Marriott floor is tiled in white and that makes it a little bit like
a hospital. You should see the Aruba Radisson in comparison, the interior design sets
standards.
Now comes the European point of view. The aftershock hit us after adding up the cheques we
paid during the first day. Because of the very weak Euro against the USD everything turns
out to be three times the price you pay in Europe. Having set a daily spending limit we
began to have fun. Keeping the spending
limit is an easy go, because there are definetely no bargains for Europeans to hunt for
unless you come from the UK. The GBP is always more or less linked to the USD. My advice
for the rest of Europe, pack your suitcases tightly, you wonīt exceed the baggage
allowance on your return flight.
Next and final aftershock was what Marriott charges for faxes. I payed for 4 pages to
Spain USD 37.20, that really outraged me. I also reported this in the guest survey. How do
they expect to attract business travellers with such communication rates? Even Tokyo is
cheaper. Sorry to blame you Marriott, I bet the others on the island arenīt much
different in this respect.
Dispite the queries described Marriott has excellent facilities, a very nice garden, clean
beach with efficient service, nice restaurants and bar at the beach front as well as
comfortable opening times at the health club. Wherever you are in the resort, you will
always have a fresh water dispenser right next to you.
The ocean is ideal for swimming, for kids in particular, because the waves at the beach
are tiny (if any), and the water is pretty warm, you will hardly find any rocks in the
sand. Our Nick (5) learned to swim, so we will at least return when Helen (2) turns five
to make her swim also.
If you like to snorkel try the Jolly Pirates, they will really make your day.
For dining I would recommend Salt and Pepper.
See you again Marriott Aruba.
