Aruba or GC and which resort

[epcmart]

First time planning a trip to the Caribbean for March 2018. I can put an OGS via II or SFX.
Which resorts do you recommend with 2 kids 10 & 13. DW likes to dine out for dinner at least.
TIA


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[LisaRex]

That's a pretty broad question. What do you and your kids like to do?

 

[Sandy VDH]

There are far more choices in Aruba than in Grand Cayman. You will more luck in Aruba and St Martin, they have the most timeshare locations in the Caribbean.

 

[epcmart]

That's a pretty broad question. What do you and your kids like to do?

Hi LisaRex, kids love snorkeling and DW likes to hang around the pool. I love to explore local or hidden gems.


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[epcmart]

There are far more choices in Aruba than in Grand Cayman. You will more luck in Aruba and St Martin, they have the most timeshare locations in the Caribbean.

Thanks Sandy, how are the airfares from West Coast around the Spring break time?


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[LisaRex]

Snorkeling is better in GC than Aruba. The winds make swimming/snorkeling trickier on Aruba. The Tortuga resorts on GC are on the Eastern side of the island, which means that it's away from the mega-touristy area of 7 Mile Beach. Not sure if that would be good or bad for you, but the East End is definitely more laid back. There is really good snorkeling off shore and enough to keep kids busy, such as Stingray City, Turtle Farm, etc. GC is very safe, but probably the most "bland" of the Caribbean islands in terms of culture, though, so not a lot of history or local flavor.

As Sandy indicates, there are a ton more timeshares in Aruba than GC, and getting an exchange should be fairly easy. Note that Aruba is reportedly (never been there) windy and sunny, but very dry. Others can chime in on things to do other than the usual water sports.

Airfare to GC is very reasonable. Aruba is a few hundred bucks more. And be sure to test drive a few itineraries. I've attempted to go to Aruba a few times but flights were problematic on the way home. I have no desire to spend the night in Miami.

 

[Scott Lowell]

First time planning a trip to the Caribbean for March 2018. I can put an OGS via II or SFX.
Which resorts do you recommend with 2 kids 10 & 13. DW likes to dine out for dinner at least.
TIA


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Just returned from GC Sunday the 26th 2017. Stayed at the Reef where we are owners. Others are correct that the East end of the island is much quieter than 7 mile beach area. If your going for nightlife and parties this is not your area. There is a lot to do however with excellent snorkeling, diving, kayaking, jet ski trips, sailing, bio-luminescent tour, stingray city, caves to explore, beach volleyball, pools and hot tubs, and some great foot options. I think the kids would have plenty to do if you engage them. White Sand water sports with numerous rental and trip options is right at the Reef and Red Sails does trips and rental from Morrits. The two resorts are side by side with grocery store and liquor store across the street. Things are expensive on GC with a fixed 20% exchange cost on USD. Both Morrits and Reef are timeshares with kitchen facilities and exterior BBQs so you don't have to eat all meals out. There is also a Subway attached to the Reef and a great Italian restaurant with take out pizza across the street to help keep kids happy and food cost in line. We greatly prefer the East end of the island to the busyness of 7 mile beach. Depends on what you like. Have not been to Aruba.