Off the beaten Path

To truly experience Aruba's wild side without sacrificing comfort, book a private local guide in an air-conditioned Jeep. Let them take the wheel and navigate the rugged, windswept eastern coast for you. You’ll stay cool and comfortable as you wind through the dramatic desert tracks of Arikok National Park, step inside historic limestone caves, and make your way down to the secluded, rock-protected Natural Pool. Having a private guide means you get an intimate, insider's look at the island's history and hidden gems completely on your own schedule and a built in photographer.

Evening Pampering

After a day of spectacular island exploration, transition into pure luxury. Aruba is home to an outstanding culinary scene that rivals any major city. Spend your evenings being thoroughly pampered whether that means booking an exclusive beachside tasting menu where you dine with your toes in the sand under the stars, or indulging in high-end, fresh-caught seafood paired with flawless, attentive service at a candlelit outdoor terrace. For the ultimate luxury music, one of the many chef's tables around the island.

The Insider Secret

Skip the bustling resort beaches for at least one morning. Wake up early, grab a fresh coffee from a local spot, and drive down to the quiet southern tip of the island to Baby Beach or Rodgers Beach before the crowds arrive. Sitting on the sand in the absolute stillness of the early morning, watching the sun light up the impossibly blue water, is a magical moment of pure serenity you’ll never forget. 

Share the Beach with Sea Turtles

Aruba's shores are a major nesting ground for giant sea turtles from March to September. If you spot a marked nest or see them swimming, keep a respectful distance and let them enjoy the ocean in peace.

Daytime Freedom

Start your maritime getaway by flying directly into Charlottetown Airport and spending your first day exploring the vibrant, historic downtown completely on foot. When you are ready to venture further, take a scenic coastal drive down to Summerside. Walk along the waterfront at Spinnakers' Landing, browse the local artisan shops, grab a treat at Holman's Ice Cream Parlour (still the best I have ever had), and then spend a quiet afternoon combing the nearby beaches if you keep your eyes peeled, you might just find a rare piece of red sea glass to take home.

Farm-to-Fire Dining

For the ultimate culinary indulgence, head to The Inn at Bay Fortune for Chef Michael Smith's legendary Fireworks Feast (Reservations required). This is a multi-course dining experience prepared over open fires, highlighting ingredients harvested directly from the inn's own culinary farm. Sip a glass of wine, take in the gorgeous Fortune Bay views, and enjoy an evening of absolute pampering and world-class culinary artistry. For those feeling adventurous, try the house-made non-alcoholic pairing that beautifully complements each smoky, wood-fired course with creative herbal infusions and fresh-pressed local juices. 

The Insider Secret

On your final day before leaving the island, you need to play your cards just right. Make Ada Culinary Studio and Grab and Go on Kent Street your very first stop of the morning. Chef Adam Loo's famous artisanal donuts sell out incredibly fast, so swing by early to secure a box to pack safely in your carry-on. Once your treats are locked in, take a relaxing stroll down to the historic waterfront to visit Founders' Food Hall & Market. It is a beautiful, high-energy collective where you can browse local artisan shops and grab an incredible, freshly made sandwich for a perfect farewell lunch, I like to enjoy mine in the airport or on my flight home.

Flowers in Bloom

Stratford is a city designed for slow, beautiful mornings. Start by popping into one of the incredible local independent coffee shops downtown to grab a perfectly brewed espresso and a fresh pastry. Take your warm cup and wander down to stroll along the scenic banks of the Avon River, watching the swans glide by. From there, make your way over to the gorgeous, manicured Shakespearean Gardens to wander the peaceful paths, take in the beautiful blooms, and explore the highly walkable, historic community completely at your own pace.

Center Stage 

The crown jewel of any visit to this artistic hub is attending a world-class production at the renowned Stratford Festival. Whether you are taking in a classic play at the iconic Festival Theatre or enjoying an intimate performance at the stunning Tom Patterson Theatre, the caliber of talent and production design is absolutely unmatched. Don't forget that Stratford is also the hometown of superstar Justin Bieber. You can track down his bronze Walk of Fame star embedded in the sidewalk right in front of the infamous steps of the Avon Theatre, where he famously spent his younger years busking for passersby. 

The Insider Secret

Because Stratford is a major theatre destination, it has attracted an incredible concentration of talented chefs and restaurants, meaning the food options are outstanding and cater to a full-day schedule. You can seamlessly map out a day of incredible eats: start with a decadent, artisanal breakfast at a cozy cafe, grab a locally sourced lunch by the river, settle in for a luxurious multi-course dinner before the curtains rise, and end your evening with a fantastic late-night cocktail and gourmet bite at one of the town’s stylish bistros or hidden lounges.