SIX18 TRAVEL

Believe it or not, the Spanish colonists who settled in Aruba and her sister islands of Bonaire and Curaçao in 1513 nicknamed them the "Islas Inútiles" or Useless Islands. They couldn't have been more wrong. Centuries later, this southern Caribbean cluster is using an arid climate and minimal rainfall in their favor. Aruba in particular lures tourists with its blindingly white beaches, modern infrastructure and welcoming, multilingual locals. With its extensive underwater visibility, this island is a preferred getaway for divers looking to explore shipwrecks, too. In fact, the S.S. Antilla is the largest wreck in the Caribbean. And better yet, it sits in very shallow waters so snorkelers can also view the surreal underwater scene. Year-round tropical weather is also a draw, and the food, arts and culture scene has evolved to meet the 21st century in a forward-thinking and cosmopolitan style.

Aruba's accommodation choices have also grown to meet today's discerning traveler's needs. On offer is an eclectic array of modern hotels and resorts, boutique getaways and all-inclusives to suit every style and budget. There's even new off-radar stays like overwater bungalows and desert glamping in an Airstream. And though Aruba is the smallest of the ABC islands, it has historically been the most visited by North American tourists and has the highest repeat visitor rate in the Caribbean.