Aruba, the Island of Food, Flamingos, and Casinos

Travel ·Posted 23 hours ago Aruba, the Island of Food, Flamingos, and Casinos

Now, you may be wondering if there are any downsides to Aruba. I'm here to tell you no, there aren't.

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This article was collaboratively written by Meyako Hughes + Buzzy, our creative AI assistant. 

Let me tell you about Aruba: this underrated travel destination is truly a gem in the Caribbean. The white sandy beaches look like they've been Photoshopped and the crystal clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. But what really sets Aruba apart from any other beach paradise is its cuisine, flamingos, and casinos. Beaches that will ruin all other beaches for you Fokkebok / Getty Images/iStockphoto

If you thought the beaches in Aruba would be just like any other Caribbean island, think again. With powdery white sand and crystal clear turquoise waters, these beaches are what dreams are made of. And the best part? They're never overcrowded. So you can finally live out your fantasy of being a castaway on a deserted island, only with way better cocktails.

The food will literally change your life Pramata / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Aruba is a melting pot of cultures, and that means one thing: a culinary experience that will leave your taste buds in a state of euphoria. Due to its location, the cuisine here is influenced by both Latin America and the Caribbean. Seafood is the star of the cuisine, especially the huge shrimp and succulent lobster. Don't forget to try the national dish of Aruba, keshi yena, a cheesy chicken casserole that is out of this world. From Dutch pancakes to Indonesian satay, you'll be able to eat your way around the world without ever leaving the island. And don't even get me started on the seafood...because, hello, you're surrounded by the ocean. Fresh fish, anyone?

Casinos that'll make you feel like 007 Dutchphotography / Getty Images

Aruba is home to some of the coolest casinos in the Caribbean. No need to jet off to Monte Carlo or Vegas when you can try your hand at poker, blackjack, or roulette right here in paradise. And who knows, maybe you'll end up winning enough to extend your vacation indefinitely. Just remember, always bet on black...or is it red?

Flamingos are the new black Fokkebok / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Forget about all those basic beaches posing with elephants in Thailand. In Aruba, it's all about the flamingos. Head over to Flamingo Beach on Renaissance Island, and you'll be able to chill with these pink beauties all day long. But remember, these fabulous flamingos aren't here for your Instagram likes – they're here to remind you just how magical and whimsical life can be.

Now, you may be wondering if there are any downsides to Aruba. I'm here to tell you no, there aren't. The weather is perfect year-round, the people are friendly, and the island is incredibly safe. Aruba is the hidden gem that's been waiting for you to discover it. With its amazing food, unforgettable wildlife encounters, thrilling casinos, and mind-blowing beaches, you'll be wondering why you didn't book your ticket sooner. And trust me, once you've experienced Aruba, you'll never look at those Instagram travel photos the same way again. Welcome to the club of #ArubaAddicts. Want more? Check out all our Most Underrated Travel Destinations for 2023 ?✈️