PRICE:
Frommer's Very Highly Recommended

If you think more about sand traps than sand castles, Tierra del Sol tops the leader board. This resort combines the sun and golf of Scottsdale with the waves and dunes of Aruba's north coast. The finishing touch is a picturesque lighthouse. The 18-hole championship golf course features lush greens and cacti. The accommodations are spectacular, too. In addition to two- and three-bedroom condominiums, the complex boasts two- and three-bedroom freestanding villas spread over acres of desert landscaping. Individually owned, each unit has a distinct decor, but all have a golf-course or ocean view, a spacious living room, dining room, custom kitchen, a large master suite with a full bathroom, one or two guest rooms with another bathroom, a covered terrace with patio furniture, and a washer and dryer. Most two- and three-bedroom villas also feature walk-in closets, an additional half bath, a sauna, a second-story balcony, an outdoor Jacuzzi, a private pool, and a garage. You can open the door to a fully stocked kitchen by ordering items online before you leave for Aruba. Because you'll want a car here -- everything's a schlep away -- the resort offers rentals at significantly discounted rates. They can also pick you up at the airport. Facilities: 2 restaurants (including Ventanas del Mar); 3 bars; outdoor pool; 18-hole championship golf course; 2 tennis courts lit for night play; excellent fitness center and spa; concierge; tour/activities desk; informal business center in resort office.

Copyright: Excerpted from Frommer's Portable Aruba, Bonaire, & Curacao, 4th Edition, (c) 2008, Wiley Publishing, Inc.

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