Aruba is more arid & flat, while Antigua is more hilly and green. IMO Antigua is much prettier & intimate feeling. They both have upscale shopping ops, but Aruba's shopping is better. Don't just limit your options to two islands.
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St.Barts is one of the most beautiful and safest islands in the Caribbean. The pleasing backdrop has made it a favorite for luxurious resorts and vacation experiences, leading it to be considered a playground for the rich and famous.
Aruba is most famous for its incredible beaches with almost impossibly white sand and bright turquoise waters. Palm Beach (as the name suggests) is filled with palm trees and backed by glamorous high-rise hotels.
Although Aruba and Hawaii are both great beach destinations, they have substantial differences making both places a unique holiday experience. I'd argue that Hawaii has a more epic landscape, but Aruba is easier to get to (as long as you have a passport).
Whatever your mood, Antigua will sure to keep you entertained. Whether it's dancing the night away at one of the island's top clubs, barhopping or trying your luck at a casino, the island will be sure to satisfy your senses.
As with most tropical islands there is the risk of insect bites from mosquitoes and sand flies. So be sure to arm yourself with insect repellent especially if you will be visiting between September to November.
Crime. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs in Aruba. Residential break-ins and theft from vehicles, hotel rooms and rental units also take place. Crime typically increases during annual celebrations such as Carnival, which takes place from January to March.
Aruba is expensive, though you can pay in U.S. dollars or local currency. There's no way around it: Aruba is expensive. That's true for many Caribbean islands, where much of the produce, food, and other goods are imported from elsewhere and where hotel rooms come at a premium.
The Bahamas has more opportunities for island-hopping to touristy excursions and adventures. Of course, the Bahamas also has more beach options. But, Aruba is better for couples that want to relax, and not worry about the weather! Aruba also has incredible dinner options for an evening out.
Curacao might be the better island for you if you have a little more time to explore and want more of the tropical Dutch vibe. If you want a relaxing beach getaway, then Aruba might be the better island for you. I would easily return to both of these islands. Curacao-for the culture, beautiful buildings and beaches.
Barbados — due to its bigger size and location — offers more beaches and variety, as well as better surfing and scuba diving. Aruba can't be beat for endless beach walks, some diverse beaches with rock formations, and wind- and kite-surfing.
Is Antigua Safe to Visit? In my experience, yes, Antigua is safe to visit. According to local people I chatted with in Antigua, the biggest risk you'll face in Antigua is petty crime like pickpocketing and theft – both of which are a risk, anywhere in the world.
Crime and Safety in ArubaCompared with other Caribbean destinations, Aruba enjoys a very low violent crime rate and it's considered a very safe place. There are also fewer tropical disturbances or natural disasters and has food and drinking water standards similar to the United States.