Aruba

Step off the plane and onto the tarmac at Aruba, Bonaire or Curaçao and you'll know why these former Dutch colonies are called the Windward Islands--warm trade winds constantly bathe these desert outcroppings, bending the boughs of divi-divi trees and shooing away all winged pests. But the similarity ends there. Sitting atop the continental shelf, Aruba sports world-class beaches and casino high-rises for honeymooners who hold hands while diving an extensive system of patch reefs.

Getting There

You can fly nonstop to Aruba out of Miami.

Climate

Though Aruba only a dozen degrees north of the equator, the island enjoy a sunny and dry climate. Constant trade winds lower humidity. Temperatures rarely fall below 75F in winter or rise above 85F in summer.

Water Temp

On average 80F, though temps sometimes dip to the mid-70Fs in winter.

Visibility

Varies due to currents and plankton, but usually ranging from 60 to 120 feet at leeward dive sites around all three islands. There is little freshwater runoff.

You'll Love

Wreck diving off some of the finest and longest beaches in the caribbean.

Marine Life

Little freshwater runoff, proximity to the equator and a small reef plateau keep life dense, and uncommon species flourish: frogfish, seahorses, nudibranchs, black crinoids, basket stars, scorpionfish, eels. Sharks not common. Barracuda, tarpon and jacks are. Protection has stabilized grouper population.

Corals

The payoff for high plankton content (and less than crystal vis) is a reef slope ablaze with life. The density of coral cover, especially hard corals, is unique.

Wrecks

Shallow wrecks in Aruba are excellent for novices and photographers.

Documents

U.S. and Canadian citizens need proof of citizenship and a return ticket.

Accommodations

The hotels in Aruba are generally expensive, though moderately priced accommodations can be found.

Phone: 630-941-0355 · FAX 630-359-4024
e-mail: lisa@changeofscene.com