Friday, January 19, 2024
Aruba, often referred to as the “One happy island,” is poised to welcome a host of new hotels, travel developments, and significant anniversaries in 2024.
On January 11, 2024, the Aruba Tourism Authority (ATA) announced several new initiatives and developments designed to enhance the tourist experience on the island. This comes after an exceptionally high volume of visits in the previous year. The upcoming year promises to bring significant hotel openings, innovative travel resources, and a key cultural anniversary, making 2024 an exciting year for tourism in Aruba.
Ronella Croes, CEO of the ATA, expressed excitement for the year ahead, anticipating that the array of new property developments, technological advances, and cultural events will augment what is referred to as “The Aruba Effect.” This enhancement is expected to leave visitors feeling rejuvenated even after they return home.
Key developments include the opening of two major hotels. The Iberostar Grand Aruba, an adults-only resort with 240 premium suites, is set to open in the summer near the award-winning Eagle Beach. It will be the first Iberostar property in the Dutch Caribbean, offering guests access to amenities like the Tierra del Sol golf course, multiple dining options, bars, pools, and a spa.
Towards the end of the year, the St. Regis Palm Beach Aruba Resort will make its debut. This luxury hotel will feature 220 rooms and 5-star facilities, including dining, a spa, and a pool. Located near Aruba’s prime attractions, it will be the second St. Regis property in the Caribbean.
The island’s culinary scene has also seen significant enhancements. In 2023, several hotels in and around Oranjestad introduced new dining experiences, set to enrich the culinary landscape in 2024:
The Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino opened Mercát, a Mediterranean restaurant, in fall 2023. Combining Mediterranean design with Caribbean views, it offers a blend of Spanish, Italian, Lebanese, and Greek cuisines.
Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba launched The Coco Café in summer 2023. This new restaurant serves a Caribbean-inspired menu in a vibrant setting.
Divi and Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusives enhanced their dining options with the opening of Le Café and the renovation of Pure Lime Restaurant and Ginger, Asian Flavors.
Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort Spa and Casino revamped Ruinas Del Mar, reflecting the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, with a fresh menu from Chef Yvan Didelot.
KOAL, Aruba’s newest chef’s table experience, offers a vintage ambiance and a five-course dinner by Chef Albert Raven in downtown Oranjestad.
In addition to these culinary enhancements, 2024 will also mark the 70th anniversary of Aruba’s Carnival. Celebrations will run through mid-February, featuring block parties, parades, and musical events, culminating in the Grand Carnival Parade on February 11.
Aruba is also introducing new travel resources to make visiting the island easier. March 2024 will see the launch of the Aruba Happy One Pass, a digital travel system for pre-boarding verification and streamlined border crossing. New flight options to Aruba include increased services like:
Overall, 2024 stands to be a transformative year for Aruba’s tourism, with a blend of new developments, cultural celebrations, and enhanced travel conveniences, all contributing to an enriched visitor experience.
Tags: Aruba, island, Netherlands, Tourism Authority
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Sunday, April 28, 2024
