Aruba Plans for Return to Normal

Preparing for the longed-for time when travelling and holidays are back to normal, optimistic Aruba is putting in place plans to safely welcome its returning tourists.

One of the island’s leading resorts is, for example, extending its activities with the introduction of bird-watching tours. Bucuti & Tara Beach Resorts, which has won countless awards for its environmental initiatives, is aiming to connect visitors with the 280 recorded species which visit this Dutch Caribbean island.

It has teamed up with the island’s leading birder and award-winning nature photographer, Michiel Oversteegen, to offers its exclusive Aruba birdwatching and nature tour. All tours are private and tailored to guests’ interests, from casual observer to skilled ornithologist. Go to www.bucuti.com for more details.

Meanwhile, one of the island’s most popular – and more unusual – tours is back in action after ensuring COVID-compliant measures are in place. Atlantis Submarine offers a unique underwater tour to bring the subterranean world around Aruba’s shores into close-up reality.

Submerging to around 130-feet, this US Coastguard-approved attractions is the perfect option for families as it is fun and educational, with an entertaining commentary by experienced crew. The comfortable, air-conditioned tours run three times a day from downtown island capital Oranjestad.  Children must be over the age of four and be at least 36 ins (90cms) tall. Tour prices are US$99 for adults and $59 for children up to the age of 12. Currently, facemasks are mandatory. For reservations visit www.depalmtours.com

Aruba’s government-backed safety and health protocols, under the banner Health & Happiness Code, have now been extended to the island’s taxi fleet. This ensures visitors can feel safer when travelling the island. On-site inspections ensure that COVID protocols are being followed. For a list of all certified HH-Code partner, please visit https://www.aruba.com/uk/health-happiness-code