By D.L. Hughes
The 311-unit Marriott Aruba Ocean Club features one- and two-bedroom suites with full kitchens, dining and living rooms. It also offers
hotel rooms equipped with a queen bed and sitting area. The Ocean Club is located on Palm
beach, designated as one of the best
beaches on the island, according to Best Beaches of the World. The hotel hosts six casual restaurants and cafés; the adjacent Marriott
resort & Stellaris Casino offers a variety of upscale restaurants. The resort includes a large pool, access to the beach and is home to the Mandara Spa.
Wows and Woes
The Mandara Spa is known for its Caribbean botanical products that are a great treat for your skin after a day of soaking up the Aruba sun. The spa also offers a special couple's treatment that begins in a room filled with candles and a tub for two filled with scented water and flower petals.
During peak season, the pool loungers fill up fast. If you want one, show up early. They are often full by 7 a.m.
The front desk is very busy during the peak check-in time and you can have a long wait.
Insider Tips
Check out the daily special at the spa, discounts can run as high as 50 percent.
The spa serves men and women and offers both male and female masseuses. If you have a preference, specify it when you make your appointment.
A beachfront dive shop is located at the hotel, but you can find better deals from the local shops located off the resort.
Author's Most Memorable Moment
On our first morning as we were strolling around the property, a loud bell started ringing near the pool. Suddenly, iguanas appeared from everywhere. There were dozens, some as long as 3 feet, and they were all heading for the bell. We followed and were treated to the hotel's daily iguana feeding. As staff tossed lettuce to the iguanas, one staff member lectured us about these native Aruban lizards. It was an amazing experience.
Bottom Line
The Aruba Ocean Club, a luxury resort located on one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, offers an incredible vacation experience. It is worth a visit.
Resources
About the Author:
D.L. Hughes has been a freelance writer and reporter since 1990. Her experience includes work as a reporter at the "Tribune-Herald" in Texas and an editor at the "Star News" in California. Her specialties are travel and health writing. Hughes holds a bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of Missouri and a Master of Business Administration from Loyola College.
