Looking for input on Barbados vs. Aruba for a six night, last minute, late March/early April vacation. We have a decent budget; like nice beaches w/water sports; ideally like some other sites and access to okay - decent food. Thanks.

Once again I have to say Barbados.I think Aruba is a good island too , but overall it's flat and very dry desert-like, very Americanized ,( it also has Casinos which for some people that's a plus)But I think Barbados offers more as far as sight-seeing , culture...It's just a prettier and more complete island IMHO.

I would say Aruba. Palm/Eagle Beach is the main beach on Aruba, it is quite spectacular and probably 5 to 7 miles long. Watersports, snorkeling and diving are plentiful. Local bus transportation is easy, cheap and dependable. Must do's are the Natural Bridge, the lighthouse, the caves and the beaches on the 'wild side' of the island. Take a horseback tour to the natural pool. The food selection is top notch - but not much local culture (compared to Barbados). The town has great shopping, discos, bars and casinos. If you get tired of your hotel/resort then just walk up the beach to the next one - check out the pools and lobbies at the Wyndam, Hyatt, Marriott, Costa Linda, etc. So much to do in Aruba and don't forget those romantic sunsets under the divi tree.<BR><BR>Don't get me wrong, Barbados is very nice, but it is so spread out, not as concentrated as in Aruba.

To:tdoubrava - I would suggest Aruba.<BR>Went to Barbados several years ago and did not feel safe there. Everything else fits in with your wish list - nice beaches, good food - Have fun

My vote is Barbados. Although it's 166 sq. miles, you can explore as much or as little of it as you want. The scenery is varied depending upon the part of the island you go to. Much more picturesque that dry/desert-like land in Aruba. Also Aruba's winds are much stronger than most of the other Caribbean islands (sand pelts you on the beach). <BR><BR>Barbados is extremely safe. We've wandered all over the island including the interior and never had any problems. People are very friendly and helpful. On any island you should not take risks going to places you are alone after dark.<BR><BR>Early April is perfect in Barbados.

We just came back from a week in Feb. in Barbados and loved it. I haven't been to Aruba but the beaches here were very wonderful, especially right in front of our hotel, &quot;The Bougainvillea Beach Resort&quot; in the town of Christ Church on the South coast. I would highly recommend staying there. It was beautiful. There was just enough surf to use the complimentary boogie boards. A five minute drive away takes you to St. Lawrence Gap with a great variety of restaurant choices. Lots of day trips, too if you don't mind driving on the left side of the road! Our family felt totally safe here, even when visiting the main city of Bridgetown-much safer than many US cities!

been to both. barbado's is the prettier island but just returned from aruba and had a great time. people are very friendly, service great,and guarenteed great weather.

definitely aruba!!! great weather. wind is a pleasure to cool off. very civilized. no beggars. great town shopping. amazing restaurants. we stayed at radisson on palm beach 2 weeks ago. palm beach has lots of action if you want to rent jet skis, sail boats, banana boats, etc. perfect vacation. everything nearby. airport close by. it was THE BEST! i would go back in a minute.