If you’re thinking about your next summer getaway, Amsterdam might be the city for you. It’s a stylish European city with plenty of museums, gorgeous architecture, and a fantastic nightlife scene,
Or maybe Aruba is more up your alley. With sunny beaches and a relaxed vibe, this Caribbean island is perfect for those looking to relax and unwind after a long winter (or busy week). Choosing just one destination is hard when you have so many options. Here’s an article to make a choice easier for you.
Why Amsterdam Is the Perfect City to Visit
an orange bike on the canal
Amsterdam is perfect for your trip because it has everything you could want in a vacation destination. Whether you’re interested in sightseeing, shopping, food and drink, culture, or history, Amsterdam has something for everyone. And if nightlife is your thing, then Amsterdam will not disappoint.
There is a reason why Amsterdam is amongst the top 10 most popular tourist destinations in the world, as per Statista.
There’s no shortage of things to do while you’re in Amsterdam. How about taking an afternoon stroll through Vondelpark? Or enjoy an evening at Amsterdam’s museums like Rijksmuseum or Van Gogh Museum. Take a boat ride along the Amstel River. Or spend some time exploring Amsterdam’s canal system on foot or by bike? The possibilities are endless when it comes to exploring this beautiful city.
How to Experience the Best of Amsterdam
So, you’ve decided that Amsterdam is where you want to go for your summer getaway. You may know some of the top attractions, like the Van Gogh museum and Anne Frank House, but this city has many hidden gems that can make your experience even more memorable. Let’s take a look at some of the best ways to experience all Amsterdam has to offer:
- The Red Light District: This area is certainly not for everyone and isn’t something everyone would consider fun, but seeing it for yourself will give you a unique perspective on what life in Amsterdam is like.
- Street Performances: Many street performers who entertain passersby with music or comedy acts are scattered throughout the city. You never know what kind of performance might catch your eye!
- Dutch Pancake Haus: While these pancakes aren’t considered local delicacies, they’re still delicious. They come in many different flavors and toppings, too, so no matter what kind of foodie traveler you are, this place has something for everyone’s taste buds.
The Best Time of Year to Visit Amsterdam
If you’ve been dreaming of visiting Amsterdam, summer is the best time of year to do so. The weather is warm and sunny, the crowds are low, and you can enjoy yourself without breaking the bank.
If your travel dreams include exploring Europe’s most famous canal city during its annual tulip festival, then summer is also when this happens. All you have to do is set an alert for Google Flights to Amsterdam and book one that fits your budget.
Where to Eat and Drink in Amsterdam
surprisingly delicious together
Amsterdam has a wide variety of restaurants, from street food to fine dining. You can eat anything from Indonesian food at De Kas to Dutch pancakes at Pancakes Amsterdam. If you’re in the mood for something traditional and hearty, check out Restaurant Kees van Dongen near Rembrandtplein.
Amsterdam is known for its beer, and there are many great places to get your drink, whether you prefer light lagers or thick stouts full of flavor. There is of course Heineken, but one of the best spots for local craft beer is Bierproeflokaal ‘t IJ, located next door to Central Station, where they offer rotating taps from small breweries across the country.
Why Aruba Should Be Your Next Vacation Destination
after this sunset, I think I need to return to Aruba…
Aruba is an excellent destination for families. The government and local businesses have taken steps to keep the island safe during the COVID-19 crisis, including banning outdoor gatherings and wearing masks in public.
Aruba has many activities to do, such as snorkeling and scuba diving in its clear waters or visiting one of its beaches. There are over 40 beaches on this small island. You can also see some of the best restaurants in the world at resorts like Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort & Casino or Renaissance Hotel Aruba Resort & Casino.
How to Experience the Best of Aruba
If you’re looking for the best of Aruba, here are the top spots to do so.
- Casa Del Mar: This boutique hotel offers a range of amenities and services, including an outdoor heated swimming pool, fitness center, and tennis court. Guests will also enjoy access to the nearby beaches of Eagle Beach or Palm Beach. The hotel itself has been designed with comfort in mind, so much so that it won’t be easy to leave your room.
- Divi Flamingo Beach Resort: Whether you want some serious relaxation or want to get out on the town with friends, this resort offers everything you need! If you like staying active while enjoying your vacation, try one of its many water activities.
- Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa: Need a place where everyone can relax? This resort is known as one of Aruba’s most luxurious resorts, but don’t worry about missing out on fun activities because there are lots of things going on here too! There are also plenty of places within walking distance where visitors can grab lunch or dinner while they stay here, and shopping centers within minutes of this beautiful location.
The Best Time of Year to Visit Aruba
the snorkel platform on De Palm Island Aruba
Aruba is a popular destination for travelers looking to escape the winter months. And according to the Minister of Tourism and Public Health, Aruba tourism has recovered by 92% in the first half of 2022. The best time to visit Aruba is in its high season, which lasts from December through April. It is when warm temperatures and tropical breezes make the weather great for exploring both on land and at sea.
Suppose you’re looking for an ideal vacation spot with white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and plenty of activities but don’t want to deal with crowds or high prices. In that case, consider visiting Aruba during this period. However, if you would like more flexibility in your trip planning, where you can enjoy some beach time while there is still a bit of snow on the ground back home, then consider traveling off-season from mid-April through mid-December.
Where to Eat and Drink in Aruba
Aruba has a lot to offer in terms of food and drink. The Netherlands, Spain, and African cultures heavily influence the cuisine. There are many restaurants on the island, and this is where you can try traditional Dutch dishes like bitterballen or frikandel.
You will also find some unique beer varieties here as Aruban brewers have developed some exciting brews like lager made with honey or ginger beer with mint or nutmeg flavorings. And if you like rum, Aruba is one place where you will be impressed with its many different varieties. There’s even an annual “Rum Festival” held every year during Easter weekend, where people come together to celebrate rum-making history through music, dance performances, and delicious sampling cocktails made from local rums.
Conclusion
Whatever you choose, you’ll be able to find something fun to do. Aruba is known for its beautiful beaches and resorts. Amsterdam has many museums that showcase its historical sites and architecture. One could spend your days in either place exploring the scenery or visiting some of the city’s most famous attractions. Either way, both destinations offer plenty of things to see, so they will not disappoint.
