Karibu Aruba

The unassuming Karibu Aruba sits on a quiet residential street in Noord, one of over 200 inns and guesthouses (as well as a number of high- and low-rise hotels) crammed into the Palm Beach area. The stiff competition doesn’t seem to faze Andras and Beja, the Dutch couple who run the tiny place -- though their special attention to guests adds a special twist on a typical hotel stay that helps this home stay-like property stand out from the rest. They shuttle guests to and from the airport, give free rides to the grocery store, and offer tips for where to go while on island -- they’ll even provide a cell phone to use for the duration of your stay. All of this is capped off by an endearing interior courtyard modeled after a Spanish hacienda -- it's so clean that one can immediately slip off their shoes and walk barefoot, island style. 

The combined effect creates a cozy, homey vibe, and those looking for a lot of action at night should look elsewhere -- the property is quiet. At only three rooms, it’s understandable that the couple is hoping to expand, with more rooms and higher-end amenities in the works. For now, the hotel attracts American and European couples on romantic vacations, as well as independent travelers who enjoy the subdued, peaceful atmosphere. 

The hotel is located on the northern tip of Aruba in Noord, one of the most popular towns for international tourists. While it's not right on the beach, the closest strip of sand is just over 10 minutes away on foot, though it takes only five minutes by car to reach popular Palm Beach. There travelers will share space with people staying at the high-rise hotels (like the Marriott) and there are innumerable beachfront restaurants, ranging from clothing-optional-casual to fancy and expensive. Otherwise downtown Oranjestad is just about 20 minutes away by car, where luxury shopping plus tons of dining and nightlife can be found. The popular Natural Bridge -- a photo worthy geological formation over the sea -- is 25 minutes away by car, and near pretty Andicuri Beach. It’s a 13-minute drive to the California Lighthouse, about 10 minutes to Eagle beach, and about 22 minutes to the international airport. 

The three rooms here are identical in their decor and general layout, though the upstairs room is arguably a bit more private. White and cream shades predominate, with cheerfully bright turquoise accents and terra cotta-tile flooring. These spacious rooms have clear glass-paneled doors that face an interior courtyard shielded by white curtains, which creates privacy while letting in a good bit of that amazing Caribbean light. Solid wood accents -- like hardwood furniture with rustic silhouettes and chunky wood TV stands in some rooms -- add a bit of local flair. The overall effect is charming and romantic, helped by little chairs and tables outside the rooms that beg for lounging with an early-morning coffee and newspaper.

Cozy details include slippers, robes, and ample towels of all sizes, as well as a large and comfortable bed. The amenities are up-to-date -- the flat-screen TV is huge, Wi-Fi is free, iPod docks, air-conditioning, and cell phones on the bedside tables are a nice touch. The rooms also count narrow kitchenettes with sinks, microwaves, hot plates, and mini-fridges, as well as enough cookware for a brief stay. Bathrooms are a highlight here—they’re bright, modern, and showers with deluxe setting are especially large and unexpectedly high-end for this relatively simple hotel.

The hotel is small and features are limited, but there are a surprising amount of cozy nooks and crannies to find throughout the property. The interior courtyard has a few covered couches for lounging on a rainy day, and there are more in the main kitchen, as well as a telescope and other random knick-knacks, which the owners often make available for guest use.  

The wide, large table off the kitchen often has cookies and coffee on it for guests in the mornings. Breakfast is somewhat informal, though not included with room rates -- just ask the owners, and they’ll whip something up at a relatively minor cost. The dining area faces the pool, which is a nice-to-have extra. The pool area is pretty compact, with a few hammocks in the shade and a small raised pool. There's a distinct lack of shade aside from the hammock area and guests face the green field that is adjacent to the hotel. It’s better than a street view, at least, and there’s always a breeze, which helps.

Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel and the owners will provide rides around town, including transportation to and from the airport. Cell phones are provided for guests to use during their stay.