Has anything been done regarding the beach vendors. Are they still everywhere on the Surf Club/Ocean Club Beach? Last year they just about ruined our beach experience. Too many...too noisey...oil in the water...boats stir up the bottom...

As unpleasant as the vendors can be...(at least they don't hound you trying to get your business) there really isn't much that can be done about removing them. The beach is public, and they have a right to make a living. As we have been told repeatedly at the meetings, the only way to see a decline is to not use their services. Supply and demand dictates the amout of vendors you will see on and around Marriott properties. That's why they tell us to only use Red Sail Sports....but sometimes that just isn't right for everyone.
ruba

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Sept. 19th - Oct. 3rd, 2009

Thanks for the info...sounds like we have been to the same owner's meetings. You would think Marriott would have enough clout on the island to be able to regulate the amount of vendors. Last year we were limited to 'beach front" because the docks had just been moved...the bottom was very soggy and the vendors boats would churn it up.

Just a question. If the beach is public, could a bunch of Marriott customers park their beach chairs under those vendor tents?

Bobbie

Aruba belongs to the Arubans. We are just guests on THEIR island. There are plenty of beaches on the island where you can relax without having to "put up" with the islanders that are trying to make a living, if that is more to your liking. Of course those quiet beaches may not offer the spoiled tourists what they have become so accustomed to: restrooms, bars, restaurants, etc. But hey, there are choices to make.

We just returned and there are still a few vendors on the beach, but my wife mentioned how much quieter it was on the beach this year. It was very relaxing.