Aruba all inclusive

GinaV0822

We really have been set on doing an all inclusive for our honeymoon.  We were thinking St. Lucia possibly, but I've also heard some good things about Aruba and we are now considering it.  But from what I hear about Aruba is not to do an all inclusive because we'd be missing out on good restaurants and that there are plenty of other things to do rather than just stay at your resort.  Does anyone have any thoughts on this?  Is it expensive to eat/drink in Aruba?  I've only stayed at AI's in Mexico which were great because we didn't want to leave the resort so that's all I have to compare it to.

Any input is appreciated!

Thanks!

LADY324

In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/wedding-boards_honeymoon_aruba-all-inclusive?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Wedding BoardsForum:11Discussion:8440bc67-c161-40de-bc07-4f93a343d8dfPost:eec90085-3c44-4654-ab3b-385d4f8b7110">Aruba all inclusive</a>:
[QUOTE]We really have been set on doing an all inclusive for our honeymoon.  We were thinking St. Lucia possibly, but I've also heard some good things about Aruba and we are now considering it.  <strong>But from what I hear about Aruba is not to do an all inclusive because we'd be missing out on good restaurants and that there are plenty of other things to do rather than just stay at your resort.</strong>  Does anyone have any thoughts on this?  Is it expensive to eat/drink in Aruba?  I've only stayed at AI's in Mexico which were great because we didn't want to leave the resort so that's all I have to compare it to. Any input is appreciated! Thanks!
Posted by GinaV0822[/QUOTE]

This exactly is what I heard from everyone so we decided not to do an AI for our HM.  It is a very safe island so you can venture out and try new restaurants.  I think Aruba can be as cheap or as expensive as you want to make it.  If you can't afford to spend $100 bucks or more on dinner each night then go to a cheaper restaurant.  I have done a ton of research so we already have several reservations at restaurant based on awesome reviews from the knot and trip advisor. 

I am sure drinks can get very expensive but FI and I decided to go all out for our HM since it is our first real trip together.  However we saved a lot of money to have our dream honeymoon. 

aimers1525

I agree w/everything pp said. We didn't do an AI and you don't have to eat at expensive places every night.   Drinks do get expensive, but I've seen other Knotties suggest just going to one of the stores grabbing one of those cheapo coolers and buying booze to bring on the beach. 

TheSlowskys

I wouldnt do an AI in AUA.  But food is wicked expensive, but there are a ton of excellent restaurants.

I went to St. Lucia and was so underwhelmed by the island.  Beautiful scenery, but I thought it was dirty - rats everywhere. We stayed in Rodney Bay/Gros Islet and I thought the restaurants were so so and were fairly expensive. I would not go to St. Lucia again, but if I did I would stay at an AI.  Getting around there is a huge PITA. Its something like 27 miles long and it takes an hour and a half to get from one end of the island to the other.  Just really windy mountain roads.

hwoychowski

AI's are mainly for places where you don't want to stray from the property much. Sometimes for safety reasons or just being a desolate area. Aruba is definitely one of those places you want to go out and explore. There are a ton of fun things to do and is much safer than soem areas in Mexico and Jamaica. Try Senor Frogs - that place is amazing!

laura0862

We usually rent someone's timeshare at the Marriott so that way we have a kitchen during our vacation. We save money by going to the grocery store and getting breakfast and lunch foods, then we go out and get nice meals for dinner. And, the timeshares are a lot bigger than a hotel room. Might be a good option if you're looking to save money but still explore the island!

halls12

We are staying at the Tamarajin (an AI) in August. They also have a sister hotel - the Divi. We are still planning on going out to eat at different restaurants on the island. We like it for the breakast, lunch and drink aspects. And, our room is overlooking the beach!

bells24412

We are staying at the Riu Palace which is AI. But like PP mentioned we are venturing out to try a few resturants regardless that we are in an AI.
I believe that it is totally up to you and what your budget is for food and drinks or if you even want to worry about that.

Goodluck and have fun where ever you decide to head!