Aruba

Aruba is a stunning low-lying island located off the north coast of Venezuela, covering an area of around 20 by 6 miles. Getting away from it all in Aruba isn't hard to do. Take off on an exhilarating ride on horseback along the shore. Join the birdwatchers enjoying peace and quiet at Bubali Pond, an old salt pan that's been turned into a nature sanctuary. Or simply relax and spend time on one of the many beaches.

Beyond a cordon of duty-free shopping malls and handicraft shops, you'll find the old town of Oranjestad (pronounced Oran-yeh-stat), which also happens to be the island's capital. Located on the scenic southern coast, it is a fun place to explore and makes an exciting day out. Some of the best examples of Dutch Colonial architecture are found along Wilhelminastraat. A wonderful mix of pastel pink and blue houses with ornate detail and sporting brightly coloured traditional Dutch roof tiles. By the wharf you'll see the local traders selling their fresh fish straight off the boat, causing a lively buzz as they battle for the best catch. Over looking the bay, 18th-century Fort Zoutman houses local history exhibits in the Museo Arubano. There also an intriguing collection of Amerinidian relics on display at the nearby Archaeology Museum. 

Travel further north along the west coast from Oranjestad and you'll discover some of Aruba's best beaches, Eagle and Palm beaches are especially appealing. Aruba's fun loving spirit means that everything from windsurfing and sailing, to deep sea fishing and kite-surfing, are available. Sampling some of the excellent locally caught fish is obligatory, but you'll also find an exciting mix of restaurants serving everything from Jamaican to Italian cuisine. Entertainment is as mixed, with many hotels putting on steel bands along with carnival and cabaret style shows. Casinos are also highly popular if you feel like trying your luck. 

You'll find there are many natural points of interest, such as the lofty 165 metre high Hooiberg, one of the island old lookout points. Also worth checking out are the Casibara and Ayo rock formations in the centre of the island and the huge dunes at Boca Prins. Travel further south east and you'll find the ruins of the old Balashi Gold Mine. Variety is certainly the spice of life here.