Curacao vs. Aruba

[Homunculus]

here ia another question - which is a better place to visit for a day flying from Bonaire - Aruba or Curacao (in November)? No diving is intended, we're going to get plenty done in Bonaire, just to do some sightseeing, visit nice beache/s and maybe some shopping, although we're not big on shopping. What are some pros and cons of each island?
What are the approximate prices for either flight? I've heard BON-Aruba r/t is ~US$185.
Thank you

 

[Damselfish]

I would say Curacao is potentially more interesting, but Aruba more tourist friendly, in that it's easier to go there for a day when you haven't been there before and figure out where to go and what to do. Getting the lay of the land takes a bit more effort in Curacao. Aruba is more Americanized and Curacao is more like visiting a different country.

Aruba probably has more shopping, and it's generally slicker. But Curacao has a fair amount of shopping too, with it's share of duty free but also more of a local feel. If you're not big on shopping there is plenty at both.

I think downtown in Curacao is much a more interesting place to explore than in Aruba. There is a little interesting sightseeing on both islands, again possibly easier to hook up with some kind of tour in Aruba that fits your schedule, or just to rent a car and do it yourself.

Aruba has more of the long groomed white beach thing going on (and probably more people on the beach.) Curacao tends to have smaller beaches, many tucked into secluded coves - which are cool but learning your way around and getting to them when you're just there for a day would be trickier.

 

[Stichus III]

Aruba is definitely more tourist friendly than Curacao.

 

[Ontwreckdiver]

Have a look at www.arubabound.com. It gives a good overview of resorts, restaurants, tours, etc.