We are going away in January and can't decide on whether to go to Aruba or Antigua. Both trips cost about the same. We need your help!

Haven't been to Antigua but have been to a number of islands and went to Aruba in March. It really depends on what you are looking for -- Aruba is not a pretty island -- not a lush, tropical paradise but instead very dry -- I called it "Arizona with water." However, the beaches and the water were absolutely gorgeous. There is a constant wind on Aruba which bothers some people. Aruba was safe, friendly, clean, not a lot of poverty, very americanized (fast food outlets etc.) My husband is an avid golfer and thought the golf course was terrific. We thought the prices were reasonable and went to several very good restaurants. Not that much shopping - "Little Switzerland" for crystal and jewelry but that's about it. We are beach and golf bums so it was fine for us. Hope this helps.

Aruba for sure. We have been there 4 times and 1 week on Antigua which was enough for a lifetime. Antigua people were generally rude and not very friendly. The cars are U.S. made with steering wheels on the left side but the roads are backwards which mean you drive on the left side. We had to stop at every intersection so we wouldn't kill ourselves merging with traffic. Aruba always has great weather since they are not in the hurricane belt and are around 80 all year. The water is purified from a desalinization plant just offshore so the water and food are always safe. The oil refinery closed a few years ago so the people of Aruba knew that tourism would be their lifeblood. They responded by being the friendliest people you will ever meet anywhere. The beaches and water are so pretty, you will never want to leave. The casinos are nice and even offer frequent loser cards like Las Vegas does. We have never worried about our safety there. Have fun in Aruba

I agree, ARuba is my favorite island. I was planning to visit Antigua next. Can you tell me about their beaches? ARe they as nice as Aruba? What I loved about Aruba was there are no shells, rocks, sticks. They literally clean the sand everyday so that the guests can enjoy smooth soft sand each day. How do you compare Antigua's beaches? Where did you stay?

I have not been to Aruba, but I've heard it is very nice, but expensive. <BR>My husband went to Antigua a few years ago and stayed at an all inclusive resort, plus did a bit a touring. <BR>The beaches were the most beautiful and the ocean for swimming was the best we've ever seen. Miles and miles of clean, sandy beaches and the water was aqua blue and calm and clear. <BR>We had a wonderful time!

Aruba definitely!!!! We are returning <BR>for our third vacation in Aruba in May <BR>2001! As said earlier, the beaches <BR>are great, many excellent restaurants <BR>and the people know how to party! Check <BR>out these Aruba websites: www.aruba-bb. <BR>com-----www.visitaruba.com---- and <BR>www.arubatourism.com--- for more info. <BR>If you like to have fun and party a <BR>little, check out the Kukoo Kunuku <BR>Bar-Hopping Bus, Tatoo Dinner Cruises, <BR>Mi Dushi Sailing Adventures! You can <BR>find out more about these activities at <BR>their website, www.arubaadventures.com <BR>You can also reserve online. <BR>Hope you decide on Aruba--- many great <BR>places to stay! <BR>JanGail

Although Antigua is not as lush as some other islands, it definitely is not dry like Aruba. We stayed in Antigua for a week in '98 and had a wonderful time. <BR> <BR>The island is very beautiful and the people are very proud of their country. We never found any of them to be rude; then, of course, we were also friendly to them in return. <BR> <BR>Yes, the roads there are crazy. Remember that the island has strong British ties, so they do drive onthe left. We did not rent a car, but rather took some tours and hired a couple of cabs. It was MUCH better than trying to drive ourselves on the "wrong" side of the road! <BR> <BR>There are some wonderful restaurants on the island: Home, Miller's By The Sea, Coconut Grove, Spinnaker's, Chez Pascal, Pari's, etc. It is fun to try all of the different places. Home was by far our favorite! <BR> <BR>For more Antigua info, look here: <BR>http://www.geographia.com/antigua-barbuda