“ONE HAPPY ISLAND,” Aruba’s slogan, truly reflects the warm, welcoming spirit that greets visitors across the island. Locals are friendly, the atmosphere is relaxed, and the island’s charm is contagious.
On my first visit to Aruba I stayed at The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba as part of their Perfect Ladies’ Retreat package. The offer included an executive-suite stay, daily breakfast for two, $50 casino play, a boutique discount, a private skin consultation for two, a complimentary enhancement with each spa treatment, a private casino clinic experience, an evening amenity, private limo transfers with Champagne, and two add-on activities to personalize the stay. It was a memorable way to explore the property.
Situated on Palm Beach, the resort has 320 rooms and suites, each with a private balcony and ocean view. Dining options on-site include four restaurants plus room service. Solanio operates as a breakfast venue and becomes an upscale Italian restaurant for dinner. BLT Steak offers a modern American steakhouse experience with steak, seafood and locally inspired seasonal ingredients. Madero Latin Grill serves light lunches and poolside cocktails, while Divi Bar & Lounge in the lobby stays open through the day for snacks and offers sushi in the evenings.
Guests can enjoy a 24-hour casino, two pools and direct beach access. Non-motorized water activities such as paddleboarding are complimentary, and the concierge is available to arrange off-site island excursions and additional activities.
Although I had time to explore the property, the spa was the highlight of my stay.
On treatment day I began with a quick session at the fitness center. The gym is well equipped with cardio machines, free weights and resistance equipment, and it also offers daily fitness classes. Afterward I spent time on the beach in a cabana and enjoyed a light ceviche lunch from Madero before my 2 p.m. appointment.
The spa is discreetly located on the ground floor. Arriving early allowed me to use the facilities and take a tour after checking in. The 15,000-square-foot spa houses 13 treatment rooms and features separate men’s and women’s facilities. The women’s side includes showers, lockers, a relaxation room, steam room, whirlpool and sauna, all available complimentary to hotel guests.
Service options include massages, facials, body treatments, nail services, a salon and several signature experiences, with special treatments for men and expectant mothers.
I began with a short whirlpool soak, then spent a few minutes in the steam room — the warmth helped me unwind quickly. I saved the sauna for after my treatment.
After changing into a robe I relaxed in the lounge. The chairs were among the most comfortable I’ve experienced at any spa, and the plush blankets and robes added to the calm. I sipped watermelon-infused water while watching the palm trees sway and the clear sky above. I felt so peaceful I almost didn’t want to leave the relaxation room for my appointment.
Treatment room © THE RITZ-CARLTON, ARUBA SPA
My therapist escorted me to the treatment room for a preview of a new offering, Misterio di Aloe. The session combined a 50-minute massage using natural aloe products with a 25-minute foot reflexology and an aloe facial application.
My therapist, Robyn, was exceptional. She used smooth, continuous techniques and applied firm but comfortable pressure, paying particular attention to my back to release travel-related tension. I had never experienced foot reflexology before; it was more focused and precise than a pedicure. Robyn worked specific points on my feet that correspond to glands and organs, and the technique was deeply relaxing — almost trance-like. I briefly jolted awake when she worked my right foot, then drifted back into complete relaxation. The aloe products had a subtle, refreshing scent and left my skin soft and dewy.
After the treatment Robyn greeted me with water and a small strawberry smoothie and guided me back to the relaxation room, where I lingered and reflected on the experience.
Before leaving I made use of the sauna, reluctant to end the calm. My time at The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba Spa was restorative and left me feeling genuinely happy and refreshed.
The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba Spa
L.G. Smith Blvd. 107
Palm Beach, Aruba
tel 297 527 2222
ritzcarlton.com