19 hours ago
Why Aruba is an unforgettable romantic retreat
Picture the scene: a long, flawless stretch of sandy beach, the kind of beach you could stretch out and dream upon, a big subtropical sun sinking slowly below the horizon and beside you, your loved one reclining in perfect bliss, the two of you wrapped up in a dream trip you've been longing for and planning for months – maybe even years. But when it comes to really connecting with your partner – whether it's your first holiday, your fortieth, or your wedding, honeymoon, vow renewal or anniversary – the island of Aruba may just be the world's dreamiest backdrop.
A paradise isle in the southern Caribbean Sea, and famed for its beaches as well as its reliably sunny climate and diverse culinary scene, it's an island paradise you may want to bring in to your life for a few special weeks for that all-important 'together time', relishing its natural beauties, reigniting perhaps a love for hobbies that haven't been given much me-time over recent years, or discovering the fun of sharing new activities and adventures that you can't find at home.
Perhaps it's climbing into a double kayak to paddle through the island's crystal-clear waters, or trying a horseback ride through the surf at sunrise. If you love to hike you could take the trail through cactus-studded scenery to the Conchi Natural Pool, where turquoise seawater provides a refreshing swim spot in the coastal limestone ridge – or perhaps slow the pace with strolls along the sands of Eagle Beach, often hailed as one of the world's finest.
You could choose to play rounds of golf in the morning before a long, lazy afternoon swimming and snoozing on the sand, gazing out onto the Caribbean Sea or up at a clear blue sky. That's before the evening, and the promise of the night, kicks into gear – with cocktails in sandy-floored bars and fun evenings exploring the stalls at food markets, listening to live music or opting for a quiet beach picnic, a sunset cruise aboard a sailing yacht or relaxed chats over multi-course tasting menus at one of the dozens of fine-dining spots.
For couples really keen to slow down and relax together, the island is home to some of the Caribbean's best hotels and resorts. Whether you love something lavish and luxurious or prefer a boutique, barefoot ambiance, you'll find something that suits your style. The adults-only Boardwalk Boutique Hotel is a family-run resort with playful interiors in its 49 airy casitas. Canary-yellow lamps, pink peacock chairs and jazzy cushions feature alongside four-poster beds and rattan shades, while turquoise hammocks are slung between palm trees at the pools, on the beach and across the ridiculously relaxing tranquility zones.
You'll have your pick of activities to help you and your partner unwind, from couples spa therapies and morning yoga to beautiful accommodation for leisurely evenings and slow mornings, easing into your day with a coffee on the terrace, listening to the waves, or reclining in the comfort of a plush super-king bed.
And no matter who you're travelling with, you'll feel more than comfortable here. Warm locals help create a hospitable and friendly environment where all forms of love are embraced, making it a welcoming choice for LGBT couples, as same-sex marriage here is legal – and what a place to celebrate in.
Couples may choose an intimate elopement ceremony on the sands with a photographer as a witness, but if you're keen on a bigger celebration, the Ritz-Carlton Aruba has several spaces for the dream day – where the big 'I do' can be followed by candlelit suppers on the beach for your closest friends and family, or on a lantern-lit lawn that provides a beautiful relaxed setting for delicious dining and music.
Of course, you don't have to be getting married to celebrate your love for someone – the countless romantic corners on the island are spots to celebrate anniversaries or plan a wedding-esque ceremony for a vow renewal, perhaps on a beach at dawn, in a small private cove or even on a luxurious chartered yacht.
Meanwhile the light-filled bridal suite at Joia Aruba by Iberostar is one of the most stylish spots to tie the knot, its serene sea views soothing away any on-the-day nerves. It's delightful, deluxe and utterly romantic, and an ideal place to choose for your honeymoon too, soaking up its dazzling white interiors, thickly padded poolside daybeds and premium location on Eagle Beach.
Romance is something that feels different for everyone – it may be nonstop laughter as you get to grips with a new activity; it may be hours of companionable silence on perfect sands; or perhaps it's ordering your partner's favourite cocktail and delivering it to their lounger at just the right time.
Whatever romance looks like to you, and whatever it looks like to your partner, neither of you will be disappointed with an unforgettable holiday in Aruba.
