Aruba Kid friendly Holidays

Great location, just in front the beach. Amenities are just perfect for families, couples or solo travelers. Pool is small but to be honest I think you don't need it. Restaurante and bar are good places to chill, see the sunset, or have fun. My only complaint is that you need to go to the restaurant at the beach if you want to buy drinks or food, but you have a cooler in your room's kitchen and an ice machine to solve the problem. The beach is gorgeous and chill, not crowded and you always find chairs and umbrellas no matter the time, perfect if you want to avoid the massive touristic area of Palm Beach, and to avoid loud people. Rooms are huge and have everything you need if you don't want to leave the area.

I recently stayed at Barcelo Aruba on a trip with my friend. Overall, the staff at the restaurants and amenities were very nice, friendly, and welcoming. We really appreciated their kindness and the service they provided during our stay. Unfortunately, our experience with the reception/front desk was very different. We did not feel welcomed, and at times it felt as though timeshare members were treated with much more importance than guests who booked through Expedia. We had booked a room with two beds through Expedia, but when we requested to change our room to the accommodation we had selected and paid for, we were told in front of other guests that rooms with two beds were not available for Expedia customers. The way this was communicated made us feel embarrassed and as though we were somehow less valued because we had booked through Expedia. I believe all guests should be treated with the same level of respect and hospitality, regardless of how they made their reservation. The restaurant and amenities staff were wonderful, but the experience at reception unfortunately affected our overall impression of the hotel.

This hotel was amazing! The hotel felt very safe, there was security everywhere. The hotel was newly renovated, and everything was clean to my liking! My room was spacious with a beautiful ocean view. The restaurants were amazing. The pool area was clean and gorgeous to hang out in. The staff accommodated me Very quickly on the beach with a cabana. You also have the luxury of walking next-door to the other Riu to explore. As a solo traveler, I felt completely safe. I would recommend 10 stars!

Property was well maintained

My husband and I had a really nice time at the Ritz for our honeymoon. Prior to our arrival they reached out to ask our preferences for housekeeping and turn down service as well as our transportation needs to and from the airport. They greeted us with some bubbly and stored our luggage so we could start enjoying our time there since we were early. The staff was very pleasant and accommodating and the hotel and grounds were well maintained. The room service was a good option at all hours but they didn't offer breakfast past 11 so if you are a late riser like us you have to start your day with lunch if you decide to to do room service. I will note there are not many vegetarian options on the menu (there are only 2). But I appreciate them heating up leftovers at all hours of the night for us! The other breakfast option was Ritual Coffee Culture which offers pastries and gelato. There are a few restaurants on site. We visited Casa Nonna an and highly recommend it. I tried the sushi restaurant Noori and found it to be underwhelming. Lastly Madero's was a great option for pool/beach area. We utilized the spa for massages but the jacuzzi and steam rooms are available to use free of charge for all guests. When we ventured outside of the resort there was always a taxi waiting outside for guests which was convenient. Check out the casino for some fun at the blackjack tables or your game of choice!

Loved the fact that the boat came directly to the hotel to pick you up for the flamingo island! Also this hotel is so close to everything so super convenient! Staff could have been nicer but overall good time and would stay again!