Just last week US Today published its own list of 9 Caribbean hidden gem hotels.
Aruba’s charming Boardwalk Hotel was one of them, as discovered by Oyster.com, a website which inspects every one of its finds personally.
The favorable mention came as no surprise to those who already experienced this truly special spot that is intimate, unrushed and unpretentious.
Of course some people like to brag to their friends about their insider information while others prefer to keep it all to themselves, in this case, US TODAY gave the property a prominent listing singing the praises of the flowering garden-setting just across from the Marriott Aruba Hotel and Stellaris casino, on the site of a former coconut plantation.
The 14 spacious, air-conditioned casitas of the Boardwalk Hotel have recently been tastefully redecorated in a relaxed coastal style. They now boast large walk-in showers and closets, fully equipped kitchens with 4pit stoves, microwave ovens, blenders, toasters, and coffeemakers, flat-screen TVs, and fine white linens.
The property also offers beach towels, coolers, chairs, and umbrellas, and each of the rooms is graced by a comfortable private patio with dining set, charcoal grill and a hammock.
The outdoor tropical pool, Jacuzzi and cushioned lounge areas, attract resident vacationers all day, and allow for lively social interaction especially on Friday afternoon for the Manager’s Rum Punch Party.
The colorful property remains at oasis of calm, as it is managed by a cute pair of twins, from Belgium, with Kimberly Rooijakkers in charge of hotel operations and her sister Stephanie directing reservations and guests relations. They both excel at what they do and the hotel’s Trip Advisor ratings attest to the fact that the sisters forge excellent relationships with all their guests, arranging tours and giving invaluable local information as well as booking massage and nail services on-site, upon request.
Located within walking distance to Palm Beach for swimming, and to Fisherman’s Huts for daredevil wind and kite surfing, the Boardwalk hotel offers free use of snorkel equipment, beach gear and toys for kids, besides the free use of eight tennis courts and a fitness club at the nearby Tennis Club. Free Wi-Fi and ample parking round up the list of favorite add-ons.
While there are no restaurants or bars in house, Stephanie is a living and breathing encyclopedia on dining on Aruba and you may trust her recommendations. If in the mood for nightlife and diversion, nearby Palm Beach is filled with bustling restaurants, casinos and entertainment options.
For those in search of a truly unique boutique experience on Aruba, for adventure sport seekers, couples and families the Boardwalk Hotel, Bakval 20 Palm Beach, is an excellent choice.
The list of nine hidden gem hotels published by US Today also included two properties in Jamaica, and one each in the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, St Lucia, Virgin Gorda, Turks and Caicos and Barbados.
