Aruba Or Belize: Which Paradise Is Best?

Belize and Aruba are two very different destinations in the Caribbean. If you're looking for a relaxing beach holiday, Aruba is the better choice. It has some of the best beaches in the world, with white sand and clear blue waters. It's also a great option if you're seeking a safer and more secluded trip. On the other hand, if you're an active traveller seeking adventure and outdoor activities, Belize is the ideal destination. It offers world-class diving and snorkelling, as well as Mayan ruins, caves, and jungles to explore.

Affordability

Aruba and Belize are both Caribbean destinations, but they differ in terms of affordability. Here's a breakdown of the cost of living and travel expenses in each location to help you determine which is more affordable for your budget.

Belize

Belize offers a range of options for travellers on a budget. The cost of hotels varies, with prices ranging from $68 to $128 USD per night on average. There are also budget-friendly alternatives, such as the Rumors Resort Hotel ($95 - $169 USD per night) and the Royal Caribbean Resort ($99 - $190 USD per night).

The cost of food in Belize can be affordable if you eat like the locals. Belize's national dish, stewed chicken with rice and beans, is cheap to prepare and filling. It can be found for $6 to $8 USD at roadside stands. Eating out in tourist areas can be expensive, but asking locals for recommendations can lead to cheaper restaurants.

Transportation in Belize is affordable and easy to use. The use of taxis is common, and public transportation is also available, with bus fares ranging from $1 to $15 USD depending on the distance travelled.

However, some expenses in Belize can be high. Gasoline is expensive, and the import tax on motor vehicles is exorbitant, making car ownership costly. Healthcare is improving but still lacks advanced medical care, which may require travel to neighbouring countries.

Aruba

Aruba has a reputation for being expensive, especially for luxury resorts and world-class restaurants. However, it is possible to find affordable options. Hostels in Aruba can be as cheap as $14 USD per night, and there are also budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals available.

Food in Aruba can be affordable if you opt for local eateries and street food. A traditional meal like Keshi Yena can cost between $7 and $15.50 USD, and local snacks like Pastechi (a fried pastry with cheese or meat) can be bought for a few dollars.

Transportation in Aruba is reasonably priced. The public bus network, Arubus, is affordable, with a return trip costing around $5 USD, and day passes available for around $10 USD. Taxis are also regulated and considered safe, with minimum fares set at $7 USD.

However, alcohol in Aruba is expensive due to import taxes and a recent tax increase on hard liquor. A 12-pack of the local Balashi beer costs around $15 USD, and a glass of wine in a bar can be upwards of $8 USD.

Comparison

Both Aruba and Belize offer a range of options for travellers on a budget, but overall, Belize may be the more affordable option. The cost of food and accommodation in Belize can be lower, especially if you're willing to stay in budget hotels and eat local food. Transportation in both locations is similarly priced and won't break the bank. However, Aruba's taxes on alcohol and import duties on vehicles can add significant costs to a trip.

That being said, it's important to consider your individual travel style and preferences. Aruba may be more suitable for those seeking a relaxing beach vacation, while Belize is ideal for active travellers interested in snorkelling, diving, and exploring ancient ruins.

Activities

Aruba and Belize offer very different experiences when it comes to activities. If you're looking for a variety of activities and a more active vacation, Belize is the better choice. Here are some of the activities that Belize has to offer:

• World-class snorkelling and diving experiences. The Turneffe Atoll, located about 20 miles from Belize City, offers divers the opportunity to explore beautiful reefs and encounter amazing wildlife.
• Exploring ancient Mayan ruins, such as Altun Ha & The Olde Belize River.
• Cave tubing through underground rivers.
• Ziplining over jungle canopies.
• Visiting the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, the only jaguar preserve in the world.
• Exploring the Great Blue Hole, a large underwater sinkhole.
• Enjoying the beaches along the Caribbean coast, such as Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, and Placencia.

On the other hand, if you're looking for a more relaxed vacation with beach activities, Aruba is a better option. Here are some of the activities Aruba has to offer:

• Lounging on white sandy beaches, such as Eagle Beach and Palm Beach, and enjoying the clear blue waters.
• Snorkelling and diving at sites like the old Antilla shipwreck and Malmok Reef.
• Exploring Arikok National Park, covering about 20% of the island, and home to a variety of plants and animals.
• Off-road jeep tours and ATV tours.
• Visiting the Conchi Natural Pool, a unique rock formation creating a tranquil pool.
• Golfing at courses like Tierra del Sol and Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort.
• Windsurfing at beaches like Boca Grandi and Fisherman's Huts.
• Enjoying the nightlife, including bars, nightclubs, casinos, and sunset cruises.

Weather

The weather in Aruba and Belize is quite different. Aruba has an arid, dry, and desert-like climate, while Belize has a tropical climate.

Aruba's average temperature ranges from 84°-88°F (29°-31°C) and remains steady throughout the year. The island is flat and arid, with about 20% of its land designated as a national park showcasing its rocky and desert-like terrain. The peak tourist season in Aruba is from January to March, and the low season is from April to August. The rainy season in Aruba typically occurs from late October to January, but the rain usually falls at night and only in small bouts.

On the other hand, Belize's average temperature during the dry season (January to May) is 73°-82°F (22°-28°C), while the rainy season (June to mid-November) can see temperatures up to 79°-86°F (26°-30°C). Belize is located in the hurricane belt, so there is a higher risk of hurricanes during the peak travel months of October to April.

If you're looking for a dry, steady climate, Aruba might be the better choice. However, if you're seeking a tropical climate and don't mind the potential for hurricanes, Belize could be more suitable.

Both destinations offer distinct weather patterns, and your preference for a dry or tropical climate may influence your decision.

Safety

Aruba is considered one of the safest destinations in the Caribbean, with violent crime rates being low and petty theft being the largest concern. Aruba is also a perfect destination for solo female travellers.

Belize, on the other hand, has a much higher crime rate. The US State Department labels Belize as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution. Travellers to Belize should be aware of the risks posed by human trafficking, gang activities, and murders. Most of the crime is concentrated in certain regions of Belize City, rather than in tourist areas.

However, as with travel to any country, it is important to exercise due care and attention to maintain safety. Visitors to both Aruba and Belize should avoid leaving valuables unattended and walking through secluded areas at night.

Cuisine

Belize and Aruba offer distinct culinary experiences. Belize's cuisine is Latin-inspired with a tropical twist, while Aruba offers a wide range of cuisines due to its American influence.

Belize's local cuisine is heavily influenced by Mexican and Latin flavours. A popular local favourite is rice and beans cooked in coconut milk and served with meat. Marva's Restaurant in Belize City is recommended for those seeking home-cooked, flavourful meals. Belize also has a diverse range of seafood options, as it is located on the Caribbean coast.

In contrast, Aruba's local cuisine includes seafood, Caribbean dishes, Dutch pancakes, poke bowls, steaks, and jumbo shrimp. The island also has several fast-food chains, providing tourists with familiar options. However, visitors should not miss out on trying the local seafood dishes, as they are fresh and packed with rich Caribbean flavours. Driftwood Restaurant in Oranjestad is a great choice for an authentic culinary experience, where you can try the pan-fried fish done 'Aruban Style'.

For those who enjoy a variety of dining options, Aruba may be the better choice. The island caters to a wide range of tastes due to its American influence. You can find Argentinian steak houses, Dutch pancakes, and a mix of cuisines from around the world.

However, if you are looking for a more unique and tropical culinary experience, Belize may be a better option. It offers Latin-inspired dishes with a tropical twist, and you can also find freshly caught seafood.

Both destinations offer exciting culinary adventures, but the choice depends on your personal preferences and desire for variety or a more localized experience.

Frequently asked questions