please help! Aruba vs St John
 

My husband and I are planning our vacation for September. We prefer that time of the year, because there are usually less crowds and less children around. <BR>We were looking at the Hyatt Aruba, because it is out of the hurricane belt. Aruba seems like a fun island with lots of good restaurants and interesting things to do, like the party bus and the horse and carriage rides in Oranjestad. However, Aruba is an arid, dry island and I'm worried that it may not feel like tropical paradise.<BR>On the other side, we are considering the St John Westin, which has a lot of lush greenery and has a more Hawaii like look. St John doesn't seem like it has a lot of fun stuff to do.<BR>We enjoy the whole resort experience so condos are not our thing. My perfect vaction consists of exploring local towns and shops, eating local caribbean cuisine and laying by the pool sipping drinks delivered by attentive waitors. Can anyone help us decide which island to go to this year?

You're not going to find the "laying by the pool sipping drinks delivered by attentive waitors" type of experience on St John. <BR>I honestly think you will be happier on Aruba, it is flat and not terribly scenic but the beaches are wonderful and there is more in the way of the planned kind of activities that you're looking for. St John is more of a do it yourself kind of place.

St. John: pros: beautiful, lush vegetation, great beaches (but not the beach at the Westin), has local Caribbean flavor, not so touristy feeling.<BR>Cons: limited commercial/retail options for shopping and dining, hostility toward Americans by islanders is common, poor local population, not easy to access most of the island (75% of which is national park), crime.<BR><BR>Aruba: pros: great beaches all over, no rain or hurricanes, safer than most all Caribbean islands, plenty of hotels, shopping and restaurants from which to choose, easy to travel the island by car, relatively cheap compared to many Caribbean islands.<BR>Cons: not a pretty island (desert scrub), not much local flavor, windy beaches common.<BR><BR>The Westin is a decent resort, not great, and you won't receive 'attentive' pool service.<BR>The best Aruban resorts are a notch above the Westin in quality.

Mike,<BR>What kind of crime did you experience on St John? I've been going there for 15 years and have never had any issues with crime.<BR>I have heard of the occasional break in at a villa or a car but I'm just wondering what kind of crime you came in contact with?

I read the local VI paper while there and was amazed at the amount of crime per capita (should be next to nil with so few people on St. Croix and St. John).<BR>I was attacked by a (drug addled?) local man who was incensed that I did not step off the sidewalk into the street for him as he walked past my wife and me in Cruz Bay.<BR>I was harassed and followed by some local guys about 20-30 years old while walking from the Westin into town.<BR>Staff at the Westin were not only rude but almost confrontational toward us.<BR>We are rather quiet midwesterners, not loud in-your-face types.<BR>Being there only 5 days I thought this was all quite disturbing.

Mike,<BR>Sorry to hear you had such troubles on your visit. As I said, I've been traveling to St John for over 15 years and have never had a negative experience with crime or being hassled etc. <BR>That said, I would say that there do seem to be more youngish men just hanging around than there used to be and that can be intimidating. <BR>As for the staff at the Westin, I've never stayed there so I can't comment but I've heard both good and bad. <BR>Hope you give it another try, it really is a beautiful island!

I agree with Mike. St. John definitely does have a "anti-tourist" feeling. Island's population is poor. Alot of police for such an island. Must have problems we don't hear about. Aruba has finally wised up and stopped giving visas to Venezuelans. They keep coming in and taking jobs from native Arubans and bringing their drug and crime habits with them. Aruba would get my vote of the two mentioned.

Aruba now limits entrance by Venezuelan nationals?<BR>Wow. That's a bold move.<BR>Is this a recent change in policy?

did they ever arrest that machete carrying gang that robbed tourists as they sat on their patios at the resorts? <BR>http://travel.state.gov/aruba.html<BR>www.cyberdistrict.net/eddy/1258.htm<BR>www/cyberdistrict.net/eddy/1184.htm

we absoutely hated St. Thomas and found St. John's only a little better. Not only were the people very rude and openly hostile; but the beggars were insistent. one drunk (drugged) woman stopped me three times in one hour while i was just trying to sit alone for a while. another drunk (drugged) man stopped my wife and I twice; then walked over to a bush not more tha 20 feet away and relieved himself in plain view right in front of us. If I need that kind of entertainment, I will go to a slum for my next vacation. Our vote for the USVI-NEVER AGAIN!

Just returned from a wonderful trip to the USVI. Stayed on St. Thomas 3 nites and St. John 7. It was wonderful. Still recovering from island time but had no problems with anyone or anything and it was one of the best trips. Even the taxi drivers I had been warned about were the best. The guys bugging you to come in the shops were a little annoying one morning that we shopped for gifts but no problem. The restaurants were very good to excellent. The beaches and snorkling were over the top. Not my first trip to the islands but my first to the USVI and loved it and would recommend it. <BR>Ask away if you have questions.

I am also planning a vacation to St. John in September and will be staying at The Westin. I have heard such mixed reviews about the resort but have decided to stay there anyway. Having been to both Aruba and the Bahamas, I have found that on both islands (as I'm sure is the case with all islands) haggling with tourists is just something that locals do. It's an easy way for them to make money, but if you are firm with them, they usually go away. You will most likely find pushy locals on public beaches as they are not allowed to solicit on private beaches. <BR>Does anyone have a favorite snorkeling spot that might not be found in the island guide books? Also, are there any tours that are worth/not worth taking? I prefer self-guided tours but don't mind splurging on one or two day trips.<BR>

nice thing about the USVI is there is no private beaches and there are no vendors or hawkers on them. no beggars either. Feet, Fins and Fourwheel Drive and St. John off the beaten Path are two books that we found helpufl on our trip. We rented a jeep and did our own touring with those books and didn't need a guide. The Park has some guided hikes that were nice especially the Reef Bay one. And we did a boat tour (the Blast maybe was the name) of some of the BVI islands and snorkling. It was really nice and we got to go to Jost von Dyke where Foxy's beach bar and the Soggy Dollar is. Fun!! We are already planning our second trip back since we were disappointed in our choice for this summer after St. John.

Have been to St. J 4 times in the last 3 years and love it.....have never been harassed or interacted with anyone that wasn't very friendly....can't wait to go back. Favorite beaches - Salt Bay Pond, Hawksnest, Gibney and Francis Bay. Favorite snorkeling spot Waterlemon cay

thanks for the links. Didn't know that the VI is ranked third in the list of weathiest islands according to www.cyberdistrict.net/eddy/1264.htm and the VI don't have the same links to money laundering and off shore banking like Aruba and the Cayman Islands do. Good site for Aruba information.

My fiance and I went to St. John just about 1 year ago for the first time. It was absolutely the best trip we have ever taken. We stayed at the Westin and had no problems at all. Granted, we were only there to sleep and grab breakfast...then we were off to the north side beaches...but we loved it and would recommend it. As far as the crime and rude people, if they were there, we missed them. In a full week there we only met nice helpful people that were more than happy to help you. I would highly recommend St. John to anyone looking for a great relaxing week in paradise.

Marie-<BR><BR>It depends what you are looking for in a vacation. I know some people say the cons of Aruba is windy beach, but I find it extremely soothing. The tradewinds make it bearable to tolerate the heat. Also, the wonderful trade winds keep away the bugs as well as the arid look of Aruba.<BR><BR>St. John is very lush, and therefore can cause some bothersome bug problems.<BR><BR>The people are extremely friendly in Aruba and do accomodate your every needs. The Hyatt, Raddison or Marriott are beautiful resorts, you can't go wrong there.<BR><BR>They have some wonderful sunset cruises, snorkeling cruises, dinner cruises, dinner on the beach, gambling, drive in movie theater, dinner theme parties in the evening, not to mention sipping tropical drinks...and yes definitely with attentive waiters!!!!<BR><BR>Whenever a local sees you they say hello. Truly is is called "ARUBA - ONE HAPPY ISLAND" for a reason!<BR><BR>Wherever you choose, you will have a wonderful time.<BR><BR>:)<BR><BR>

It's really simple. If you want to take a vacation in a desert, go to Aruba. If you want to go to a tropical paradise, go to St. John. You mentioned about the party bus in Aruba, well, this is one of the tackiest things I've ever seen. A bunch of drunks yelling ya-hoo!! They're trying so hard to have fun it's so pathetic.

The pathetic thing is that they are having fun

Gee, Pam sounds jealous that others are ahving fun and she's not. What's wrong Pam? Life got you down?

There are people who love St. John and people who love Aruba.<BR><BR>When they say St. John is a paradise...yeah, MAYBE for boring people who are fat ass slobs that like to lay on the beach with there fat bellies hanging out order fries and drinking pina coladas.<BR><BR>Aruba may have a party bus which some may call "tacky", but Aruba is still a paradise that has wonderful people, and no poverty.<BR><BR>So stop bashing Aruba.<BR><BR>Aruba is full of beautiful people<BR><BR>St. John is full of FAT ASS SLOBS!!

Where can you order french fries on the beach in St John ?? I think St John is a beautiful Island. And we have always had fun in Cruz bay in the evening. And honestly have never noticed the big fat slobs!! Lets hope they do not take over this paradise. I do not think I would travel there in Sept. I have never been to Aruba, my husband will not go ( too commercial of an Island for him) however I have friends that have liked it. The Hyatt in Aruba does look nice !

Actually, I saw more "FAT SLOBS" laying on the beach in Aruba. The only way you could stay on this island is if you stay in your resort and "pretend" that this place is a tropical paradise. Susan is either a timeshare owner in Aruba who is cursed to go back there year after year or she hasn't been anywhere else. If that is your attitude Susan, I think you fit right in your "happy island". How scary.

Just got back from the Hyatt Aruba. We have been to St. John many times, but this was our first trip to Aruba. The Hyatt was great. The rooms are average, but the overall facility including the grounds, restaurants, bars etc. were excellent. The beach is wonderful. Not as tropical feeling as St. John, but "nearly" as beautiful. It is very wide, lined with palms, with clean, soft sand. The Hyatt has 4 restaurants and several bars with live music. We found enough in the hotel areas to entertain us in the evening without going on a party bus. I love St John, but I don't think you would like the Westin as much as the Hyatt Aruba. Depends what you are looking for. <BR><BR>Linda

TO: Sue, Pam, and Dr. Joyce-<BR>For those of you who are arguing about vacation spots, it sounds like you all need a vacation. Luckily there are many different places in the world that are amazingly beautiful and meet the needs of different people. Some of you like St. John (including me) and some of you like Aruba (I've never been), so appreciate each others opinions and stop arguing. Share what you know so others can make better choices for themselves. :)

I'm on your side, Wayne--St. Thomas AND St. John are absolutely HORRIBLE!!!

Just wondering, Tim, what in your opinion make St. Thomas and St. John "absolutely horrible." We have been to two dozen islands and find St. John to possess some of the very best beaches and snorkeling among our travels. Aruba has nice beaches, but they do not compare to St. John's for the lushness nor beauty. Aruba is virtually a desert. Snorkeling on Aruba's beaches from shore is almost non-existent. Depends on what you are looking for. If gambling, all inclusives and more commercialism is your thing, do Aruba. If you are looking for terrific beaches and snorkeling and the lush beauty and tropical feel, try St. John or some of the BVI's. They're in a class all of their own. We've been traveling to STJ for eight years and have never had a problem with crime or ever been approached by anyone wanting money. I just don't get the people who want to trash a place when it's obvious they have never been there, i.e., french fries on the beach, fat slobs. We rather find St. John to be frequented by physically fit people who like to hike, snorkel and swim.

I've been to St. Thomas 7 times - loved it. It has crime just like every where else. Just because you're on vacation doesn't mean you're safe. Been to St. John several times as well. I like it a lot better than St. Thomas because it's quiter and nicer beaches. I stayed at Caneel Bay and I thought it was great. The rooms are nothing special but the grounds and beaches on the property is what you're paying for. The restaurants on Caneel are decent but you can go anywhere on the island and find great food. The staff was friendly and helpful. Only encountered one staff member that wasn't the happiest person. From what I saw at the Westin their beach is not very good - manmade. But you could always rent a jeep and check out other beaches. I plan on trying Aruba next year. I've heard great things about it.

Who ever thinks that Aruba compares to St. John in any way is out of thier mind. Aruba is a flat desert, not very island like at all. I lived on St. JOhn for over a year and have been to many other islands including Aruba. You won't find another island as beautiful and breath taking as St. John. As for the fat SLOBS most of them were in St. Thomas coming off the cruise ships. <BR>St. John also has many activities including hiking, diving, snorkeling, renting kayaks, dingys, etc.. And lots of fun things to do at night. Don't listen the the idiots who believe Aruba is fantastic, it's just another Americanized resort.

St John is the best of the USVI, but for true paradise go to the BVI. Like a whole different world. They have the authority to deny access to anyone they deem questionable (dreadlocks, etc)They make you leave the islands if you are unemployed for over 3 months. They still have "honor bars" and it is safe to pick up hitchhikers. The BVI know that tourism brings in jobs and perks and respect the visitors. I've been to the USVI and BVI and I'll always choose the latter.If you need fruity parasol-topped drinks, go to Aruba. Personally, I'd rather explore lush islands with variety, culture and no tacky high rises, chain hotels or fast food joints.

My boyfriend and I are going on vacation Aug 5-16( 2 weeks away). We are trying to decide between BVI and Costa Rica. Anyone been to both? In BVI, any islands you prefer? How is the weather in BVI in early August as I am somewhat concerned about the hurricane season. We are very active people who like warm water, cultured people, and great views. Thanks

I have also been to St.John 4 times in the past 4 years and I love the place! I have never felt unsafe..even going out with just myself and my sister to the bars in Cruz Bay. I don't care for St.Thomas at all..too commercial and too many people begging you to go in their stores, etc. and too crowded with "cruisers".<BR><BR>My recommendations: eat at The Stone Terrace in Cruz Bay...amazing food. Party at Duffy's Love Shack--fun! and beach at Mondo Beach and Hawksnest...Trunk Bay is way too crowded. And definitely snorkel at Watermelon Cay.

Mondo beach? Watermelon Cay? You mean Waterlemon? Sounds like someone met Lindy. He's harmless and Cruz Bay wouldn't be the same without him.

Lindy's still alive!! I heard he got hit by a car, but I guess he's ok now. Thats good to hear. Another great restuarant with beautiful sunsets is Cafe Wahoo in wharfside village cruz bay. Tell them TG sent ya. Great steaks, fresh seafood, especially tuna and good apps. If anyone has specific questions feel free to email me. I can probably tell you a great deal that the normal tourist wouldn't know.

You people are the most argumentatvie I have ever read on a forum. You must all be from the same "assylum". <BR><BR>Anyway...my vote ST. JOHN.

Yes--Mondo Beach--it's out of the way..maybe you haven't discovered it. And sorry.. Waterlemon Cay. Sorry June I didn't know that you are some other people on here believe that they are the "God's of the Fodor's.com message boards" where you have to be so rude to people who make a simple spelling mistake! Just putting in some suggestions...no need to be rude!

Two totally different islands! <BR><BR>Dry vs. lush<BR>Flat vs. hilly<BR>Miami Beach feel vs. National Park feel<BR>party hardy vs. laid back<BR>resorts galore vs. villas galore<BR>pool lovers vs. nature lovers<BR><BR>I much prefer St. John but from what you've said about your tastes, Aruba sounds like more your style.<BR>

My husband and I have been to both and ARUBA is the tropical place to be! You won't be disappointed. We stayed at the Divi Aruba all-inclusive last year. You also have full use of their sister resort next door the Tamarijin. The Divi is wonderful--Tamarijin is a notch below. Great food/service and close to downtown shopping. You must go to Carlos and Charlie's bar one nite---it's a blast--even for 30-somethings!

Never been to Aruba, and to St. John's only once. St. John's was so beautiful. Never seen anything close. No high rises, No Pizza Huts or strip malls. Just nature at it's best. The snorkeling was incredible. The fact that there is very little there in the way of night clubs etc.(night life only a 20 min. ferry ride away to St Thomas) is exactly what makes it so unique. People that don't get that, would probibly be happier some else.

People lighten up,<BR><BR>Aruba is 3 times bigger than St. John with a population ten times larger how can you expect it not to be developed?<BR><BR>Aruba is not a desert its arid with nearly 20 inches of rain a year, it does not rain in the desert, in Aruba it does rain however not much as the rest of the islands. People who claim Aruba to be a desert are exagerating and are misinforming people. Soon you will here stories of "I thought it never rained in Aruba". You can not have things both ways, you either want a lush island with a increase chances of rain during your vacation or an arid island with a slight chance of rain during your vacation? It is either the one or the other.<BR><BR>Americanization was brought by the demand of Americans for food out of their country. So why complain on something that was asked for in the first place? I don't know! The same Americans that are complaining about fast food in Aruba are those visiting them and supporting them. Mind you that Aruba is the 5th most visited country by Americans in the Caribbean and that does not go without notice. The island receives nearly half a million Americans a year as oppose to a few thousand that visit St. John.<BR><BR>Therefor comparing Aruba and St. John is like apples and oranges. Aruba should be compared to other mass tourism destinations, quiet similar in size or to other destinations that has a similar climate.<BR><BR>St. John is only laid back because a few thousand people live there. St. John is only green because thats mothers nature will, human can not decide what climate to put for each island. My advice do more research at other boards, this board is pretty much anti most Caribbean islands and shows the ugly face of America insulting the islands and culture.<BR><BR>To those who claim there is no culture in Aruba, get quainted with locals and let them show you around you will be very surprized and impressed. A good vacation is what you make of it!