Happiness Awaits

Take the family to friendly, easy-going Aruba.

- By Sheryl Nance-Nash

If business brings you to this sun-drenched Dutch West Indies locale known as the Happy Island, this is one work trip where you’ll want to bring the family along. It’s especially doable for people working and learning remotely. Aruba, one of the Lesser Antilles islands, lies in the Southern

Caribbean Sea. Good things do come in small packages — Aruba measures a mere 70 square miles but delivers big fun. You won’t worry about your family being bored. There’s plenty for them to do while you work — and for you all to enjoy together when you are off duty.

Where to begin the day? Water worshippers know the sea is the answer to all that soothes the soul. Count your blessings: Aruba boasts more than a dozen beaches. Rest assured there is no bad choice among the glistening turquoise waters, be it Arashi Beach near the northwestern tip of the island or Baby Beach on the southeastern end or any of the others in between. The sea takes center stage in Aruba, whether you want to soak up the sun perfecting your tan, swimming, snorkeling, diving, kayaking, windsurfing, canoeing, paddleboarding, sailing, deep-sea fishing (maybe you’ll get lucky and catch mahi, barracuda or marlin) or simply chilling on a sunset cruise. Divers will think they’ve died and gone to heaven with the many dive sites and shipwrecks, especially the 400-foot SS Antilla, a World War II casualty. Thrill-seekers can also parasail, hop on a jet ski or try a JetLev, a water-propelled jet pack that powers you to fly above the water.