We have been going to SXM for two weeks every year for the last 25 and Aruba six out of the last ten years and they are TOTALLY different experiences.
...Aruba, in my opinion, is a safer feelig Island with great roads and minimal traffic.
..It has fantastic beaches and local attractions. The beach at the high rise hotels (Palm Beach) is MUCH more crowded and noisy with more resorts and condos are constantly being built so things might change for the worse in the future.
..The food and drinks are much more expensive ($58/case for local beer) both at restaurants and modern shopping markets.
..There is really minimal ""Island Feel" in Aruba at or near the TS resorts. It kinda feels like NE USA with great weather and beaches
..USA preclearance makes flights back home more convenient. There is minimal, if any, yachts to watch and only one or two cruise ships per day.
..Aruba is out of the path of major storms so no worries there. It rarely rains but is VERY windy most of the time
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,,,SXM is much more congested and I can't say I always feel safe after dark.
..The roads are a mess and traffic can be ugly.
..The beaches are great, there are many excellent places to eat and the food and drink are priced much more reasonably.
..SXM most definitely has that "Island Feel" to it ...boardering on third world.
..Being hit by major storms is a big uncontrollable negative and it rains frequently
..Watching the yachts around Simpson Bay and sitting at SBYC and seeing them pass through the open bridge is a definite plus.
..Our view from our 5th floor upper B building condo at SBR cannot be duplicated on Aruba and is worth the trip.
Both Islands have there good and not so good points. It is up to the visitor to choose which one to return to....
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