ARUBA

Resort Info

The Aruba Phoenix is at the southernmost point of the high-rises, located just south of the Wyndham resort on Palm Beach. The Phoenix is a timeshare property composed of a 14-storey resort tower containing approximately 68 guest rooms and other facilities and a 4-storey u-shaped low-rise villa complex containing approximately 32 guest rooms.

Some Hotel History

The Aruba Phoenix had originally begun as the Aruba Royal Resort. Originally, there was the hotel structure (the interior was never finished nor was it ever occupied), the low rise units around the pool (they were occupied), and the one tower which was completed and occupied. It was opened partially-completed in early 90's. It was created as a timeshare, but also rented out as hotel rooms. The development went bankrupt before completion, was left empty and deserted for several years (as also happened to what is now the Marriot and the Ocean Club). After several years of sitting empty, Divi Resorts purchased it, tore down all but one tower and completed it as the Aruba Phoenix.

Room Categories

Tower - Tower rooms come in studios, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments. They have ocean views or overlook the Bubali Bird Sanctuary. One-bedroom amenities: 2 bath, full kitchen, 2 TV's, and 2 balconys.
Villas - 1- & 2-bedroom villas, both have 2 bathrooms, same in most ways except 1-br. has larger living area. The villas' oversized terraces face the Caribbean Sea.

Room Amenities: Each room has air-conditioning, ceiling fan, jacuzzi tub, clock/radio, coffeemaker, hair dryer, safe, 2 TVs, vcr.

Notes/Tips/Hints/Opinions

There are 2 pools. Do not dive into the pools as they are fairly shallow, only 3 or 4 feet deep all around.
The jacuzzi is a cool water spa.
The resort is on a point of land which tends to be windier than other parts of Palm Beach.
You may find the sand to be a little coarser-feeling at the Phoenix, as I believe the sand has not yet had time to be worn down by visitors and wave action. You will find the Marriott sand has a similar texture, while older beaches like the Holiday Inn have powder-fine sand.
The beach in front of the Phoenix reportedly has a seaweed problem due to the breakwater jetties disrupting the natural wave action.
There is some snorkling over by the breakwater rocks to the right.
Manager's cocktail party is Tuesday evenings - free drinks.
There is a Fiesta party on Thursday nights.
The bus stop into town is not well marked. If you face the Front Desk, the bus stop is to your right next to the fire hydrant. $1.25 one way.
The bar, unfortunately, is not located right next to the pool but it is oceanfront.
Check-in is 4 pm. They will accommodate you if you need to check-in early or leave late. Check-out is 11 am.
Some people report problems keeping full sets of towels. They don't always restock the face cloths. According to the room directory, full maid service is provided at an additional cost.
You will be given a plastic card when you check-in for each person's beach towel. You give this to the pool attendant and then each day you exchange your towel for a fresh one. Each towel is numbered and they prefer you to use only one per day. At the end of your stay, you get your plastic card back for check-out.
They rent floating mats ($5 for the day), paddle boats, sea kayaks, snorkel equipment, etc.
For watersports, walk to the buildings across from the De Palm Pier. You can get Banana boat rides, jetskis, etc.
The balconies are quite large with a round, plastic table and 4 chairs.
You can request an iron/ironing board from the Front Desk.
The safe is about the size of a business size envelope and 5-6" tall.
You will be given a remote control for the TV during check-in. You have two TVs so you might want to ask for another one. Make sure you return them or you will be charged.
The kitchen has place settings for 4, pots & pans, skillet, utensils, etc. Don't forget to take dishwashing detergent. The kitchen also has a stove, large refrigerator and microwave.

Restarants/Bars/Lounges

There is only one restaurant, the Palm Bistro. The Palm Bistro and Bar serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner with a great view of Palm Beach. The restaurant is right on the beach (great atmosphere), very convenient for happy hour or lunch.

Other Services

The French Market & Deli - They make sandwiches and have ice cream, plus a selection of provisions, magazines, cigars, and resort wear
Health Club - Located on the Tower's second floor, and has a heated Jacuzzi.
Laundry - I believe they have valet service. They should be getting coin operated laundry machines later in the year. Until then, you can use laundry machines at another Divi property.
Maid Service
Security - They have security personnel there at all times.
Tour Desk - Staff is available to coordinate your excursions and make dinner reservations.

Children's Program

This site went online 1999.
Photos by Patti MacK copyrighted 1999 and may not be used without permission.

DISCLAIMER

As information may not always be up-to-date, you are advised to use it as a guideline only. You will find e-mail and website addresses, as well as phone and fax #s included on this site - please use them to contact the particular resort/restaurant/business in person to confirm times, prices, and details. The webmaster, site owner, and Internet provider assume no responsibility for any damages or claims resulting in use of information contained in this site. If, in spite of every precaution, any copyrights have been infringed in this site or any borrowed photo uncredited, your notification with respect to photo credit or removal will be greatly appreciated.