ABC Islands / opinions experiences

[bayerische]

Guys,

Wife and I are looking at a 2-3 week vacation this winter to the ABC islands.

Been to the Caribbean several times, and we love it. This would be slightly different, as these are somewhat isolated although reasonably close to each other, so we're thinking, why not see them all at once.

We're not the resort types, we never (ok it has happened) take all-inclusive hotels.

KLM seems to "own" the Caribbean when flying from Europe, so that's probably why we will use.

But I'd really like to hear your thoughts. Aruba is quite popular with the US crown, but Bonaire and Curacao not so much I think....?

[beshannon]

Have been to Aruba and Curacao which are both very nice islands.

Not sure what you are looking for, Aruba is more touristy, restaurants and casinos. Curacao seemed quieter with more places to sail and snorkel at least for us.

[subtona]

Had a nice time in Aruba,

Being critical I can offer, there are some good restaurants but mostly over rated eateries.

Trade winds are always blowing to keep you cool, remember to protect yourself from sunburn.

if you find yourself protected from the wind, you'll likely be around Lots of mosquitos.


I would probably not revisit.

Stayed at this amazing place pictured w the lady for a few nights "old man and the sea" (now shuttered I believe)

[joli160]

Been to all three several times;

Aruba is more US orientated and has it's status aparte within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Personally I prefer Aruba over Curacao, local people are much more accommodating and friendlier. Hassle free holiday.

Curacao is a more beautiful island with it's capital Willemstad divided by a waterway into Otrabanda and Punda connected by a floating bridge. Punda has some very nice old Dutch style waterfront buildings. Nice nightlife, but not always safe.

Bonaire is the smallest and very relaxed, great for diving and snorkelling.
For the rest nothing to do, but worth while a short visit with its salt pans and the famous slave houses.

[returntorolex]

Loved Curaçao but it has been 10 years since visiting the island. VERY good scuba.

[stratguy]

We just got back from a week at Beaches Resort in Turks and Caicos. It was fabulous. The beach there is incredible. Highly recommend it. There are four villages to pick from...Key West Village is the best, followed by Italian, Carribean and the French. All four are part of the same resort. 17 pools, a ton of restaurants. All-inclusive.

I would go again.

[Star Ferry]

Now that I think of it, I realize I've been to all 3.

I would consider Aruba to be the most developed and Bonaire the least -- Curacao is somewhere in the middle.

Bonaire has the healthiest reefs and the best scuba. Downside is that most of the hotels seem budget oriented (Frankly, a lot of the scuba crowd is on a tight budget). The only place I would stay is Harbour Village. The owner Frank has a nice villa that he usually agrees to rent if you ask

[bayerische]

Originally Posted by stratguy

We just got back from a week at Beaches Resort in Turks and Caicos. It was fabulous. The beach there is incredible. Highly recommend it. There are four villages to pick from...Key West Village is the best, followed by Italian, Carribean and the French. All four are part of the same resort. 17 pools, a ton of restaurants. All-inclusive.

I would go again.

Sounds nice, but not my cup of tea.

[MonBK]

Been there Andreas and I must say it depends on how long you intend to stay.

After 4-5 days it gets a little boring.

The best experience was to rent a Jeep and drive around the island.

When you get to the other side your wife will refuse to ride any more and will say it's impossible to continue.

So you will have to drive that stretch alone while she walks behind the Jeep.

[Dyim]

A great for watch shopping.
B great for diving.
Never been to C.

[bayerische]

Originally Posted by MonBK

Been there Andreas and I must say it depends on how long you intend to stay.

After 4-5 days it gets a little boring.

The best experience was to rent a Jeep and drive around the island.

When you get to the other side your wife will refuse to ride any more and will say it's impossible to continue.

So you will have to drive that stretch alone while she walks behind the Jeep.

Looking at 10-12 days.

That's why we thought of doing all three.

But it seems like our plans have changed (again) and looking at one of the French islands instead. Guadeloupe perhaps...?

[MonBK]

Originally Posted by bayerische

Looking at 10-12 days.

That's why we thought of doing all three.

But it seems like our plans have changed (again) and looking at one of the French islands instead. Guadeloupe perhaps...?

I think you're making the right choice.