As with many other popular Caribbean destinations, Aruba has developed a mature tourism industry with more than its fair share of hotels and resorts. Travellers to the island, however, should also look at vacation rentals in Aruba as a potentially better way to experience the country.
9 Important Things to Consider Before Renting a Vacation House in Aruba
Compared to a typical hotel room, renting a house in Aruba can provide you with more perks as well as an incomparable local touch. With the right property, you can enjoy home-cooked meals, more living space, as well as a unique local experience. Importantly, vacation rentals can be more cost-effective, especially for larger groups or extended stays. Though there are multiple channels available for booking rental homes, booking directly with a locally knowledgeable vacation rental service provider offers several benefits. These providers have in-depth knowledge of the island and can offer credible personalized recommendations. Some providers even manage a variety of vacation rental properties, ensuring a wider selection of vacation homes to choose from. That said, choosing the right place isn’t always straightforward. Here’s what you should keep in mind when renting a house for your Aruba vacation:
#1. Location, Location, Location
Yes, Aruba might be small, but it has a diversity that outmatches many larger countries. The island has several neighbourhoods, each offering a different experience. Whether you prefer the bustling nightlife of Palm Beach, the off-roading trails of Noord, or the cultural attractions of the capital Oranjestad, you’re best off picking a house in a location that matches your vacation preferences.
#2. Proximity to Attractions
Once you’ve picked out a district, check each available rental’s proximity to popular attractions. Aruba does have a fairly good inter-island bus and taxi system, but being close to local attractions is just common sense for saving time when you’re on vacation. If you’re not sure what kind of attractions you’re after, look for properties that reflect Aruba’s unique culture and lifestyle so that you can, at least, get a better taste of what the island has to offer.
#3. House Size, Layout, and Features
At the very least, you should choose a rental that fits your group’s size and needs. Larger groups may need multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, while smaller family or friend groups might prefer a cozy, compact space. A home’s size doesn’t tell the whole story.
Amenities like a fully equipped kitchen and air conditioning can also make a major impact on your comfort during your vacation. Likewise, features like an outdoor grill and private pool can also make a difference in how enjoyable your stay might be. If you need to catch up on some work while you’re on vacation, check if the property you’re interested in has a suitably fast Wi-Fi connection.
#4. Safety and Security
Aruba is one of the safest places in the Caribbean, offering exceptional public safety and low crime rates even by global standards. But while this may be the case, you will probably feel a lot more comfortable if you’re in a rental property with sufficient security features. Look for properties in well-lit areas with positive reviews away from lesser-known neighbourhoods. You can also look for rental houses that have security systems installed for added peace of mind.
#5. Local Amenities
Though being close to attractions is important for a vacation rental, it’s not the only consideration. Renting houses close to grocery stores, restaurants, and shops will save you a significant amount of travel time, which means you’ll have more time to enjoy Aruba on your own terms. If you’re coming in on an extended trip, being close to these places can be critical for easily getting meals and other essentials.
#6. Beach Access
The powdery white sand beaches of Aruba are a serious attraction in and of themselves, meriting them a place on this list. Whatever your purpose for visiting Aruba, beach access means you can easily de-stress and soak up the island’s serene vibes whenever you feel like it. When choosing between two otherwise similar vacation homes, it may be worth spending extra to secure whichever one offers easy access to the country’s white sands.
#7. Transportation
As mentioned, Aruba has an excellent bus and taxi system. However, it doesn’t have on-demand transportation apps like Uber, giving you limited mobility options, particularly late at night.
Fortunately, if you have an international driver’s license, you can simply rent a car from one of the country’s many providers. Alternatively, you can also hire a car service that comes with a driver to take you wherever you need to go.
#8. Property Reviews
Reviews from previous guests can provide insights into the property’s condition, the convenience of the location, and the host’s attitude. Be sure to look at reviews that mention the host’s responsiveness and other things that may be important for your stay.
#9. Pet Policy
Travelling with pets has become more popular, but not all property owners are on board this trend. If you must bring your pet, be sure to read your rental’s pet policy. Fortunately for pet owners, a growing number of local properties on the island are pet-friendly, with some even offering pet amenities upon request.
Wrap Up: Experience Aruba Your Way!
Compared to booking a room at a resort, renting a home in Aruba offers a serious amount of flexibility and value. Choosing a rental home helps you avoid the downsides of typical pre-packaged vacations and offers you the freedom to experience the island in a unique way. With the right Aruba house rental providers, you can be sure you get the exact kind of service you need each time you visit the island.
What about you, have you ever been to Aruba? Feel free to share any tips & advice below! Photos by Jamie Tudor, Paulo Evangelista and Lex Melony on Unsplash.
ABOUTME
We overland. We eat plants and fungi. We live outside as much as possible. We are all connected. A female travel blogger overlanding and writing about ecotourism, ethical and sustainable travel, socially conscious travel and housesitting. An online travel magazine since 2015.
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