antepali

Hello. Was hoping you can all help me. For the holidays this year, I'm looking to buy my parents a trip to Aruba. They have been there twice already-- and both times stayed at the Marriott Stellaris. They truly did enjoy it.

However during my research, I've found information stating that the Marriott is now run-down and worn. How true is this? Am I better off sending them to the Hyatt (which is undergoing a renovation from what I understand)? Or is the Radisson the best place to stay?

I know that in the past they've been comfortable at the Marriott-- and now don't know what to do.

I've never been to Aruba, so any information you may have would be appreciated. They'll probably be going in mid-February.

Many Thanks.

Carola22

If you want a nice beach experience on the best beach of Aruba (IMO), you could try the Bucuti Beach Hotel in the so-called 'lowrise hotel section' of Aruba. Very relaxed and quiet and laid back, and great service. Not much of a pool or 'activities' though. If you want that you will be better off staying at the 'highrise section', where the Marriott, Radisson and many other hotels are located. We've never stayed there ourselves, but people who have seem to recommend either the Radisson or the Hyatt. Hope this helps!

Knowing

I heard they just sold the Aruba Marriott for $237 million to the Caribbean Real Estate Opportunity Fund. So, that may account for some changes. We stayed at the Radisson and didn't feel...welcomed. I wouldn't send my parents there. The Divi Village is all suites and they're huge and best of all, it's quiet. What matters most to your parents? The beach is across the road. Would they want to be right on the beach? The grounds are kept perfect and their maintance shines. Or as Carola22 suggested, many people find comfort at Bucuti with it's grocery, microwaves and refrigerators.

bostonislandgirl

hi there! not sure what your parents like to do but my hubby and I just got back from Aruba and stayed at the Marriott Renissance marina hotel - it was fabulous with their own private water taxi to take you to their own private island that has Iguanas on one side and Flamingos on the other. Great food on island also - tell them to go to Madame Jeanettes for dinner, they won't regret it believe me! any other questions, don't hesitate to ask - email me at: [email protected]
enjoy and wow, what a great xmas gift - wanna give me one? hahahahaa

aurora82

Hi Antepali
We stayed at the radisson twice last year, the first time it was wonderful, We were in the Garden View room.

The second time we were in the standard room because they lost our reservation. we were on the lowest level, the view was gross (dead birds all over the roof) and the room was more run down than the first.

All in all we would go back, but would make sure that we had a garden view room.

btw - the sunset grill is fantastic

Aurora

girlonthego

We stayed at the Aruba Marriott just two years ago and it was wonderful. Not run down at all! They were building the Surf Club. So, I imagine everything is even larger and better.

Knowing:I had no idea Marriott sold the properties. I am surprised at this because of all the timeshares there.

antepali:I am not sure what you did about Aruba, but I think if your parents liked the Marriott, I would stick with it. The Hyatt was a very nice looking hotel, but if there is construction that can be very disruptive.