Aruba Gives A Lesson In School Holiday Pricing

July 8, 2013 - PRLog -- The Dutch Caribbean island of Aruba is hoping to go top of the class as the debate grows about the cost of travel during school holidays.

With concern rising about possible confusion caused by schools in England being allowed to set their own term and holiday dates – and fears that this could lead to a wider period of higher holiday prices – Aruba highlights that it is one destination that is up to 60 per cent cheaper in the summer.

With its consistent climate, cosmopolitan appeal and child-friendly hotels, Aruba draws visitors year-round.  However, its geographic location makes it a hot spot for US travellers aiming to escape the American winter and this creates Aruba’s peak season. Conversely, North American demand drops during the European summer, making this the island’s low season, with a reduction in hotel rates.

The popular family resort of Amsterdam Manor, for example, has a room rate of US$195 (approx. £136) for a standard studio, sleeping two adults in August. This rises to US$320 (£223) in February. Similarly, at the Tamarijn All Inclusive, basic room rates are US$338 (£236) in August, rising to US$552 (£386) in February.

It is a similar story at the four-star Occidental Grand Aruba, another all-inclusive resort with five restaurants, four bars and its own children’s club. The £220 August room rate rises to £361 in February.

Aruba Tourism Authority’s UK Country Manager Joanna Walding commented: ‘Not all destinations follow the pattern of putting up prices during the UK summer. As our price comparisons show, the summer is actually a great time to visit from a cost point of view.

‘If you have longed to take the family on a Caribbean holiday, come during the summer for the best deals,’ she added.

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Note to editors: The Dutch Caribbean island of Aruba lies 15 miles north of the South American coastline, benefitting from year-round sunshine, an average temperature of 32 degrees and a cooling breeze. Located on the edge of the hurricane belt, with a nine mile stretch of award-winning pristine beach, turquoise seas, colonial Dutch architecture and a Latin vibe; Aruba is a delightful alternative Caribbean experience. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines operates to Aruba five times a week, with departures from 16 UK airports via its international hub at Amsterdam Schiphol. Thomson Airways will operate weekly charter departures from London Gatwick from May to October. Leading tour operators offering packages to Aruba include Thomson Holidays, First Choice, Kuoni, Tropical Sky and Kenwood Travel.