Usually when I travel to the Caribbean, I leave behind some cold northeast weather. On this trip, I left hot, 90-degree weather for hot, 90-degree weather. However, once off the plane, I found that the sight of Aruba’s turquoise water and palm trees, accompanied by the sound and feel of steady tropical breezes, had the soothing effect on me that it always does, and I took a deep, refreshing breath. I had arrived at the Aruba Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino in Palm Beach, Aruba and while the weather was similar to home, it was time to relax, although I was working … really.

Thanks to the hotel’s recent $50 million makeover, the stellar lobby is very welcoming and allows guests a glimpse of the tempting pool and ocean just beyond. My eighth-floor room was very spacious and comfortable, with a balcony view of the beach and all the water sports an adult playground could offer.

That evening we were treated to a seafood dinner at Simply Fish, a casual restaurant built on the beach where shoes are not recommended and sunsets are a must. However, if you feel the need to eat inside, the hotel is home to the famous Ruth Chris Steak House; La Vista, an Italian dining experience; Ketsu Sushi Bar; the Waves Beach Bar & Grill and, of course, a Lobby Café and Lobby Bar.

We headed out to explore some of what Aruba had to offer and explore we did! We joined a De Palm Tours’ Jeep Safari that took us through Aruba’s eastern side of the island, which looks surprisingly like the lunar surface. This desert-like area features beautiful ocean views, winding dirt roads, abandoned gold mines, the famous California lighthouse and Aruba’s famous rock formation, Ayo.

Another treat was the tour of Aruba’s very own Belashi Beer Brewery where we experienced firsthand the painstaking process of waiting for a cold beer at the end of the tour!

It was then time to indulge and relax at the Marriott’s Mandara Spa where they offer several signature, luxurious treatments including the Balinese Boreh Scrub and Aloe Cucumber Wrap, the Neo-Marine Spa Treatment and “That’s a Wrap.”

After dinner and cocktails, it was off to the Stellaris Casino. Located on the property, it is Aruba’s largest casino. If you’re feeling lucky, go ahead and try any one of the Stellaris’ table games, slots or even race and sports betting.

With beach tennis, parasailing, lounging about, swimming up to the bar or just rolling the dice, you can’t help but leave this fun and relaxing resort feeling like a winner!

For more information on the Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino in Aruba, please visit the Aruba Marriott Resort website.