I’ve been traveling a bit to islands that have low COVID cases. I really wanted to get another beach break in before inauguration as I assumed the new Administration would ban travel to the Caribbean.
They did make a major change. Starting January 26th, you are now required to get tested to come back into the states.
First, let me start by telling you that I get tested before and after every trip. I’ve been tested over 10 times and all negative results.
When you’re planning on traveling to a country, make sure you check their requirements. Be responsible – get tested and follow that countries protocol for COVID.
I live in Atlanta so anywhere is safer than here. Every place I have been to has been super strict. I’m okay with that and appreciate their care for their people.
Aruba During Quarantine
Okay let’s get back to Aruba. You have to present negative test results and have taken the test within 72 hours of departure. The responsible thing to do is three days before and after your test— quarantine. You don’t want to take the test, contract the virus within those three days – present a negative test , but are now positive.
Pay attention to which tests are okay and which will be denied. When landing, many people got denied entry and had to take a test at the airport ($75). When you have to take a test at the airport – you are required to quarantine at your accommodations until they text or email you that you have tested negative and are free to move about the island.
There is a curfew currently. You must be in by 11pm. Everything shuts down at 10pm … and I mean a serious shutdown. All employees need to be home by 11 so they must efficiently shut down. You can get fined or arrested for being out after curfew I was told.
If you stay in a hotel, you can move about more freely at the resorts and at least probably get food after 10pm. If you stay in Airbnb’s like me, you won’t be able to get any food after 10pm so you are stuck.
Moving Around Aruba
Getting around Aruba is best done by renting a car. It’s honestly a must. This is my second time in Aruba and we rented a car both times. There is no Uber on the island and it’s just easier to move around- not to mention cheaper. We rented a car from Thrifty for under $100 for 5 days. It’s totally worth it.
Also, the island isn’t that big. You can explore the whole island. Driving there is easy – they drive on the same side of the road as us. They are no street lights, only roundabouts that can get slightly tricky but you’ll get used to it quickly.
Where To Stay
Airbnb it! Stay in Noord near all of the resorts. You’ll be within 20 minutes of multiple beaches. As always with Airbnb, check the reviews. It’s best to get a house with a private pool. You’ll want to cool off for sure when you’re chillin’ at the house.
The Beaches
You can do a cool local beach like Arashi or head to the more touristy beaches like Palm Beach and Eagle Beach. Eagle Beach is my favorite. I’m a calm beach girl. I want soft sand and non-choppy waters. There aren’t many places to eat there unfortunately. Palm Beach on the other hand has a ton of food options. Eagle Beach and Palm Beach both aren’t rocky which is important to me. Arashi Beach was cool because it was local, however, it’s extremely rocky and a ton of shells so you have to hurt your feet a little bit to get to the soft part when going into the ocean. Leave me all day at Eagle Beach or Palm Beach and I’m good to go.
Have you traveled during COVID?
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