The Ritz-Carlton Aruba

Although not a typical Ritz, more along the lines of a Marriott, it was very nice. They tried to get us to upgrade for an additional $2500 (a bit much since we had no intention of being on premises 24/7). Aruba is safe and everyone was more than accommodating. The staff was very friendly and we felt as though they went above and beyond their duties. There were conventions and the pool area got a bit rowdy, but everyone seemed to be cordial and friendly.

Overall we loved our stay at the Ritz. The trip Cheap Caribbean planned for us was a good value for this property. We especially loved the service, the beach and the rooms. The dining options are fairly limited, with just BLT Steak and a so-so Italian place as the main restaurants. The outdoor Madero was terrific for lunch by the pools. And to watch the sunset from the outdoor patio at the hotel bar is a must (although we did get a bit eaten by mosquitos). On the beach, servers come by on segues to take the orders- which is really fun. We came for the beach, and it didn't disappoint. VERY calm warm water. The hotel has free non motorized equipment and we paddle boarded every day. A great needed vacation!

Our stay at the Ritz Carlton Aruba was fabulous! 7 nights at this gorgeous resort was quite affordable through Cheap Caribbeans great deals. Worth every penny. The service was far superior to the neighboring Marriott Stellaris, which we stayed at last August, which I am by no means knocking. The moment we checked in and were told we had been upgraded from an ocean view to an ocean front room (at no additional cost) I knew I'd be happy here. The view from the balcony was awesome allowing me to take many pictures of the sunset over the blue waters. You just can't beat the pampering at the Ritz- from the huge 580 sq. ft. rooms with extraordinary mattresses, a Nespresso machine (yum!) and colorful decor, each having an ocean view of some sort whether it be shoreline or ocean front, to the service at the pool and beach where each server remembered our names and constantly attended to our needs offering sliced watermelon poolside or a chilled towel to cool us off. There was also complimentary fruited water and suntan lotion at the pool and beach. The restaurants are a bit pricey but I didn't eat a thing there that wasn't absolutely delicious, from the fried calamari at Solanio (best I ever had) to the waffles at breakfast! Poolside dining was also very tasty. The only thing I could have done without was BLT Steaks. Was great but not worth the price tag and waiter screwed up our order. The casino was fun, a bit quiet but perfect for us. If you like more action, it's a very short walk to the neighboring Marriott Stellaris which we found ourselves at many an evening for the Gelato and Starbucks, and their bustling lobby complete with a lounge singer. The beach itself is much less crowded than the beach at the Stellaris and the water was warm and waist deep for half mile in.The adult pool did get a bit crowded. I would recommend getting up a little early to save a lounge by the pool or beach with an umbrella, which is a necessity in the Aruba sun. We didn't explore the fitness center or spa, being happy by the pool or beach by day, and dining at the Ritz or exploring island restaurants in the evening. We thought the concierge could have been more helpful in guiding our dining options. Twice they sent us to places assuring us we didn't need reservations and we wound up waiting a while at both places. Better to make reservations in Aruba since some of the better restaurants book quickly. Overall I would highly recommend the Ritz Carlton Aruba and will be back.