Aruba beach escapes for under $150 a night
— -- You could spend $150 a day for two at a budget Caribbean all-inclusive but miss out on mingling with locals and dining around the island. However, finding appealing lodging near a beach for less than $150 is no breeze during winter peak season, when rates can double or triple.
We put our money on the Dutch island of Aruba, with world-class stretches of white sand, lots of casinos and shopping ops. Popular with Americans — and with what the U.S. State Department calls a "generally considered low" threat of crime, despite headline-grabbing disappearances of two U.S. tourists in recent years — the island boasts clean, attractive budget accommodations. Many have kitchenettes, a further lure for wallet-watchers. With advice from Christina Colón, author of Frommer's Portable Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao, 6th Edition, here are five choices:
Club Arias Bed and Breakfast
Savaneta
The basics: This 11-room mini-resort is in a walled compound on the opposite side of the island from the hotel zone. Gilligan's Island-meets-The Flintstones landscaping means palms, thatched roofs and a boulder-edged wading pool with built-in stone chaise lounges. Large, well-furnished rooms and suites have kitchenettes, except cozy "The Nook."
The vibe: The laid-back hideaway is watched over by enthusiastic owner Arias Schwarz (a transplant from Queens, N.Y.). He keeps Crystal Light lemonade flowing and urges visitors to see the "real" Aruba via tours of hard-to-reach natural wonders and meals at locals' nearby favorites such as Zeerover, where cooked fresh-caught fish costs less than $15. Arias asks guests to review the nearly 2-year-old property, which explains the 300-plus reports on TripAdvisor.com. Club Arias is a family affair: Schwarz's mom, Shari, did the hand-painted designs on walls and furniture.
Nearest beach: A few minutes' walk to serviceable Savaneta Beach; a drive to the island's famed miles-long strands.
Amenities: Coffeemakers and kitchenettes in 10 suites; two pools; coolers and beach chairs; cooked-to-order breakfast included with most rooms; free phone calls to the USA; free Wi-Fi; hot-water outdoor showers (in-room ones use solar-heated H20 and are lukewarm).
The deal: As with most lodgings here, rates rise dramatically in winter. "The Nook" is $100 (including tax, but not breakfast) and Suite No. 9 is $150 (with breakfast) after Dec. 15. For best rates, call directly; Schwarz rents suites for $100 on slow winter weeks. Worth a splurge: Suites 1, 2 and 3.
Information: clubarias.com; 917-508-7210
MVC Eagle Beach Resort
Eagle Beach
The basics: Across the road from long (more than a mile) and fabulous Eagle Beach, it's a low-cost alternative to larger hotels that surround it. The 19 tile-floored rooms are updated with contemporary headboards and radios with iPhone chargers. They're clean but simple. A small bar and restaurant are on-site. Rooms 111 and 112 have good ocean views.
The vibe: Friendly staff, super location on one of the world's destination beaches.
Amenities: Mini-fridges; wading pool; tennis court; free Wi-Fi; beach chairs
The deal: From $125.41, including breakfast, through Dec. 19. Doubles from $137.45 Dec. 20-Dec. 28 may be available. Rates run more than $150 later, but website promotions might be offered.
Information: mvceaglebeach.com; 011-297-587-0110
Arubiana Inn
Oranjestad
