Aruba Travel Forum

Hi All - I need some help. I can't decide between the Renaissance Aruba (high rise) and the Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort (low rise). I've researched both hotels on various sites...I can see both have pros and cons. I appreciate any feedback...

Side notes: We are a couple in our late 20s. We value a beach with calm water with snorkeling off the shore. And we want to have plenty of dining choices in a fairly close proximity to the hotel.

thank you!

Yes, the Renaissance is not in the high rise district but in downtown Oranjestad. We stayed at the Renaissance and it was fine, not great but OK. And yes, the beach is a boat ride away on their private island. But the snorkeling was pretty good on the island, outside of the rocked-in swimming area.

Both the high-rise or low-rise districts have a lot of restaurant options. But if it was me, I'd try to find a good deal in the high rise district. I liked the beach there better. Although, sandy beach = bad snorkeling...

Thank you! I have learned the Renaissance is in the downtown area, not high rise area. Sorry. Anyhow...I am beginning to rule out the Renaissance.

I would like to know if anyone can give me any specific reasons why I should not stay at the Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort. I have read very bothersome comments about an odor from a waste water facility which is located behind the hotel. Can anyone give me a current status of this situation? Is the odor still present? Is the facility directly behind the hotel?

Also, I would appreciate more specifics about the hotel and area. Are there ample restaurants and shops in the area? Is the area safe to wander? I realize you can walk across the street to the beach but is a vehicle or public transportation necessary to do anything else (dine, sight see, shop, etc)?

Thank you!

I do recall driving thru the low-rise area (April 2006) and there was a very stinky section on the road which was reminiscent of waste water treatment facility smell. If I remember correctly it was towards the northern end of the low-rise area but I could be wrong. And I don't recall which hotels were nearby, but if Amsterdam Manor is there then I'd find someplace else.

although we did not stay in either area we would go to eagle beach everyday (lowrise area) everyday. we did not smell anything....we preffered this beach over the high rise area...much quietter and i personally found the beach to be nicer. for snorkeling i would go to baby beach as well as the natural pool.

Thanks everyone! Amsterdam has been booked. Looking forward to the trip!