Destination Guide

Aruba

Ed's most personal destination — home of his first Ritz-Carlton stay and the trip that defined his travel philosophy.

Ed ElliottExpert guide by Ed Elliott

Expertise & Insights

Aruba holds a special place in my practice — it was my first Ritz-Carlton stay and the experience that crystallized what I believe great travel should feel like. The Ritz-Carlton Aruba sits on Palm Beach, one of the island's most beautiful stretches of white sand, and the property does something few resorts manage: it makes every detail feel effortless while still surprising you.

What sets Aruba apart for my clients is the consistency of the weather. The island sits outside the hurricane belt — 365 days of sunshine, low humidity, and a constant trade wind that keeps the heat comfortable. That predictability is invaluable when you're planning a milestone trip like an anniversary or honeymoon and cannot afford weather uncertainty.

Beyond the Ritz, I guide clients toward the experiences that make Aruba feel like more than a beach vacation. The Arikok National Park covers nearly 20% of the island and is unlike any Caribbean landscape — desert terrain, natural pools, and caves with indigenous Caquetio drawings. The California Lighthouse at the north tip offers a perspective of the island that most visitors never see. These are the moments that transform a good trip into a story worth telling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Ritz-Carlton Aruba worth the price?
Without question, for the right traveler. The property sits directly on Palm Beach, service standards are exceptional, and the beach butler program means your umbrella, towels, and drinks are handled before you think to ask. For a honeymoon, anniversary, or any trip where you want zero friction, it delivers. I stayed there myself and it set the benchmark for every recommendation I make.
What is the best time of year to visit Aruba?
Any time, genuinely. Aruba sits outside the Atlantic hurricane belt, so there is no bad season. The trade winds keep temperatures in the low-to-mid 80s year-round with low humidity. If you want to avoid crowds and get the best rates, aim for late April through early June or mid-November. Peak season runs mid-December through April when flights and rooms command a premium.
What should I do beyond the beach in Aruba?
Arikok National Park is non-negotiable — the natural pool, cave paintings, and desert landscape feel nothing like the typical Caribbean. The California Lighthouse at the northwest tip is worth the short drive for the views. For food, Gasparito in a centuries-old cunucu house is the most memorable meal on the island. And rent a UTV or jeep for at least one day to reach spots the resort shuttles never go.
How far in advance should I book Aruba?
For peak season (December through April) and especially over the holidays, book six to nine months out for the Ritz-Carlton. The best rooms and suites go quickly. For travel in the shoulder months, three to four months is usually sufficient. I monitor availability and pricing for my clients so you do not have to track it yourself.
Aruba — Ed Elliott — ReelTravelStories