Radisson Hotel, Aruba

The Radisson Hotel in Aruba is a menagerie of buildings in a complex that has a “not so big” feel. There are separate towers housing the rooms as well as a main building with the reception desk, shops, and a restaurant. Then there are some separate bars that flank the pool and stretch out toward Palm Beach. Let’s start at the entrance.

It’s nice to pull up under that portico where there is always a doorman ready to help you with your bags or in an out of a taxi. The main lobby area is open air in the sense that the breeze passes through from one side to the other. There are gathering spaces like these for informal meetings, relaxation, and just hanging out.

Jewelry lovers will note the Diamonds International Store there in the background. Opposite this photo on the left side (not shown) is the casino. But let’s pass through the other side of the lobby to the outdoor spaces which feature plenty of flowing water and more gathering places like this.

Can you see yourself having a beverage here? I can. Anyway, there’s more, like this bar which typically features live music every night.

And then there are the swimming pools with the shallow entry points like this one.

And then there is Gilligan’s Restaurant which fronts the beach. Good place for a lunch between sun and fun.

They have some fantastic photos from days gone by on display here. Take the time to check them out. Finally, you’re under a palapa hut on beautiful Palm Beach. Doesn’t get much better than that.

Unless you need some spa treatments, in which case the Larimar Spa is on site and ready to take care of your needs.

I would say that the Radisson is a balance between the high-rise and low-rise hotels in Aruba. It has all the features of a much bigger establishment but still has a low-key feel. Just wanted to show this option to those of you who ask me about places to stay in Aruba.

Keep checking for more updates as I will be covering all types of accommodations on the island.

Published in: on July 27, 2008 at 12:28 pm  Leave a Comment  
Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,

Amsterdam Manor Resort, Aruba

The Amsterdam Manor Resort in Aruba is a striking contrast to the high-rise hotels that can be found on the island. The resort fronts Eagle Beach, one of the nicest beaches in the world, which is also photographed in this post and other places on this blog. Here’s a first look at the entrance.

The resort is a cluster of one and two-level buildings that surround a courtyard. In the courtyard you’ll find a bar, restaurant, and the pool shown here.

That’s the bar up there on the second level. From it you have great views of the water and beyond. This place has a completely different feel than the high-rises. There are rooms just a few yards from the pool. As you can see in the next photo, you can walk not ten steps for your morning swim from these.

Depending on what you’re looking for, it may be an option to consider. There are rooms tucked in around another courtyard (where you have a bit more privacy and quiet) like this:

Naturally there is a bar on the beach. Don’t forget to stay hydrated while you’re out there in the sun.

And, of course, here is a look at that beach as the sun is getting ready to set.

Whatever type of accommodations you prefer, make the most of your stay by remembering why you came to paradise: To relax! (Bring a good book, too! May I suggest An Island Away?)

Published in: on July 16, 2008 at 12:24 pm  Leave a Comment  
Tags: , , , , , , , , ,