Bucuti.com : Contact : FAQ

All resorts in Aruba except Bucuti have programs and facilities for children. If you are planning a vacation that includes children, Bucuti is not a good choice. We have an adults only atmosphere in our Tara Beach Suites and we have restricted our Bucuti Wing guests to one child per reservation for accommodation in our double queen bedded rooms only (limited inventory) with a maximum of three persons per room.

We understand that some of our repeat guests prefer our resort regardless of the fact that we have no children's facilities or benefits and we politely ask that all our guests with or without children observe of our desire to provide peace and serenity for all our guests who have chosen us for this atmosphere. At present only 8 rooms will accommodate one child with two adults, however Beginning 2011, Bucuti will not accommodate children 18 and younger.

What is your smoking policy? Are your rooms smoke-free?

All of our rooms are smoke-free. The Tara Beach Suites and Spa are smoke-free and smoking is not allowed in guest rooms, balconies, patios or public areas at the Tara Beach Suites. At Bucuti Beach Resort, smoking is not allowed inside of any of the guest rooms in the Bucuti Beach Resort.

However, for the Resort's Superior rooms located on the south side of the building, our Deluxe rooms and Jr. Suites, smoking is allowed on the balconies or patios only. To reserve a room with a balcony or patio where smoking is allowed, it is important to inform your travel agent or the hotel: reservations@bucuti.com to confirm this location in advance, otherwise we cannot guarantee a room with smoking allowed on the balcony.

A cleaning fee of $250 USD will be added to the room bill of guests who smoke in their guest rooms.

Do I need a deposit to ensure my room at Bucuti? Is there a cancellation charge?

Credit card information is required at the time of reservation as well as confirmed agreement through the reservations form or on line form that you agree to our cancellation policy. We do not charge the credit card until a reservation is cancelled within the penalty period, or in the event of a no show. Please review the cancellation information carefully. Due to the high demand for our rooms we will not make any exceptions to our cancellation policy. We strongly recommend that you secure travel insurance.

PLANNING YOUR VACATION

Do I need a passport to travel to Aruba?

YES. Homeland Security has changed the passport policy and a passport is required to depart and re-enter the United States as of December 31, 2006. We recommend that you apply for a passport early because, due to this change in policy, we expect the process to have slowed. We are very strict in our cancel policy and failure to have the correct documents/passport, which would prevent your travel, will result in full penalties being charged. More information from the US government is available here. For Aruba Entry and Visa Requirements: click here.

What's the weather like? Do you have a rainy season?

Aruba has an arid climate, with an average temperature of 86 degrees and the natural landscape is filled primarily with cacti. When tropical season hits the northern Caribbean from June through November, we can experience a brief shower or two. It is extremely rare to have a rainy day in Aruba - most of the moisture we experience happens in late fall - October/November. To see the current temperature and a three-day forecast, visit the Meteorological Service of the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba.

Do I need travel and cancellation insurance?

We highly recommend all guests protect themselves for losses due to last-minute cancellations or no-shows. Because we are a small, independently owned business, we are not flexible when it comes to collecting fees for last-minute cancellations and no-shows. Please carefully read our Terms & Conditions, found in our reservations section and consider contacting your insurance agent for travel insurance.

The following two insurance companies were recommended by the Wall Street Journal "Smart Money":

Access America : 800-284-8300 or Travel Guard: 800-826-1300

Is there a minimum night stay requirement?

Minimum stay requirements do apply to some dates due to high demand for our rooms. You will be informed at the time of booking if a minimum stay applies to your dates.

Are there any additional charges?

Many resorts charge 25% in addition to the room rate for tax and service charges and other fees. At Bucuti & Tara, you only pay only 9% in addition to your room rate - by far the lowest tax/fee rate in Aruba. When comparing rates, consider that Bucuti & Tara include a hearty full American Breakfast Buffet (Value of $20 USD per person) plus the low 9% tax/fee rate. We advise you to add up all your charges before comparing rates! If you have questions, please contact our reservations department: info@bucuti.com

Is Bucuti Beach Resort a pet-friendly hotel?

We welcome small, quiet and clean pets! Here is our Bucuti Beach Resort Pet Policy:

1. When making your reservation at our resort, the pet owner agrees to the Hotel's pet policies, to be responsible for any damage or injury caused by the pet, and to absolve the Hotel staff of any liability if the pet or another guest is injured.

2. We require that your pet never be left unattended in the hotel.

3. Barking may disturb other guests. Should guests hear and complain about barking we may have to relocate you to another resort.

4. Pets must be leashed or held when out of the guestroom.

5. Owners should bring pet bedding and dishes; no pets on the beds or furniture.

6. You may walk your pet on resort grounds however we expect you to clean up after your pet.

BUCUTI FOR ROMANCE & WEDDINGS

Is Bucuti Beach Resort a good place to spend my honeymoon? What's the Bucuti wedding experience like?

Bucuti Beach Resort was voted one of the top ten most romantic resorts in the world by TripAdvisor. It's the perfect place for your dream wedding or honeymoon! Our beach is quiet; an ideal location for romantic walks at sunset, or carefree days caressed by the ocean breeze. Because we are a boutique resort, you get personalized attention. Be certain to let us know you are on your honeymoon: info@bucuti.com, because we like to have special complimentary amenities waiting for you - regardless of how you book or which rate plan you are on.

We want a honeymoon in the middle of the action. Is Bucuti for us?

If you prefer a more active honeymoon adventure with a crowded beach for people watching and interaction with other visitors you may meet on the beach lounge near you, perhaps you might prefer one of Aruba's high-rise resorts. As a casually elegant boutique beach resort, our greatest strength is our serene atmosphere, to relax, rejuvenate and celebrate love. We will gladly assist you in finding the right resort for you; simply contact us by e-mail with your questions: info@bucuti.com

What is the difference between One Happy Honeymoon and One Cool Honeymoon packages?

The One Happy Honeymoon is Bucuti and Tara Beach Resorts honeymoon package. It is a paid package including a sunset sail and dinner on the beach. Click here for details on rates and package features. The One Cool Honeymoon and One Cool Programs are free Aruba Tourism Authority programs everyone can participate in. Click here for more information.

We're looking for a peaceful experience. Will there be a lot of children at Bucuti?

Bucuti does not have any facilities for children and we do not recommend our resort for families. Primarily our services are geared for couples on romantic getaways or those looking for peace and quiet. We are Aruba's smallest resort on 14 acres of beach, our atmosphere is very peaceful and you can enjoy a good deal of private space. Beginning December 23, 2010, Bucuti will no longer welcome children under 18 years old.

Can I purchase a gift for an arriving couple at Bucuti Beach Resort?

Certainly, click here for more details. A secure credit card form is there for your order. If you do not see the item you are looking for on the form, contact us by e-mail and we'll do our utmost to provide the item you desire.

DINING AT BUCUTI AND IN ARUBA

Can I order drinks and food from the beach?

Yes! Order your Pina Coladas or your lunch from your beach lounge. Our beach attendant will give you a red pennant with your lounge chair, which should be used to call his attention when you are ready for service. If the pennant is upright in the sand and waving in the breeze, you will be approached for your order. While your flag is lying dormant in the sand, you will not be disturbed.

For our romantic dinners on the beach, there are two seating times available - 6:00 p.m. for the sunset and late dining at 8:30 p.m.

Can I order food to be delivered to my room?

Our small boutique resort does not offer room service, however our oceanfront restaurant is open from 7am - 10 30pm. We have a mini market on property and there is a microwave oven and refrigerator in your room.

Other than the restaurant at Bucuti Beach Resort are there others nearby?

Yes, however we have over 20 restaurants within walking distance to Bucuti Beach Resort. They range from Dunkin Donuts, Subway and TCBY, to elegant fine dining restaurants such as the Screaming Eagle. Click here for the Aruba Gastronomic Association Dine Around plan including 18 restaurants to choose from.

Meal plans: What is the difference between Bucuti's Dine Around and the AGA Dine Around?

Bucuti's Pirates Nest Restaurant is an Aruba Gastronomic Association member, offering dining options in 18 member restaurants

As a member of the Aruba Gastronomic Association, Bucuti can also offer you access to the AGA's Dine Around program. Dine at a choice of 18 restaurants for a price of $38.00 per person per day for a three-course dinner including coffee or tea. Purchase them at the time you make your reservation with our reservations team or directly via the Aruba Gastronomic Association. For more information click here.

Where can I buy food and beverages for my room?

Our gift shop offers a wide variety of juice, soft drinks, beer, wine and spirits for your convenience as well as snack foods. Three of Aruba's most popular supermarkets are located one mile from the resort. A taxi is recommended if you have not rented a car. We will gladly give you directions at our concierge desk.

ACTIVITIES & AMENITIES AT BUCUTI

What activities are available at the Bucuti Beach Resort?

Tours, water sports, sunset sailing, diving, horseback riding, windsurfing, golfing, shopping and dining are available nearby the resort and many companies provide free pickup at Bucuti. Our full Concierge Team can arrange any island activity for you from their desk, located in both lobbies.

Some resorts provide jet skis, banana boat rides, parasailing from their beaches... however we have chosen not to, in order to maintain our safe, peaceful and quiet atmosphere and comfortable swimming area. However, all of these activities are available nearby and are located a short walk up the beach. For more info contact the concierge.

Do you have a pool or hot tub?

Our 50 ft X 25 ft pool has been completely rebuilt into a stylish infinity pool with coral tile and plush sun beds. A spa tub is located on the pool's sundeck.

Can I relax in a spa at Bucuti?

Bucuti proudly partners with Intermezzo Day Spa to offer Bucuti and Tara guests a comprehensive menu of spa treatments. Located in the Tara Beach Suites Wing, the beautifully-appointed spa is open daily and treatments can be scheduled in advance of your stay: spa@bucuti.com. Spa services are optional and are not included in the room rates.

Is there a casino nearby Bucuti Beach Resort?

Yes, the Alhambra Casino is located adjacent to our parking lot. It is a three-minute walk away. Also located there is the Alhambra Bazaar for shopping, which is open in the evenings.

Do you offer beach service?

Do you charge for towels and beach lounges?

No, we have plenty of lounge chairs and towels for our guests at no additional charge.

I'm looking for a quiet, romantic beach, what's Bucuti's beach like?

While all beaches are public in Aruba, our location within Eagle Beach in the low-rise area is the most peaceful and quietest. We do not allow water-sports vendors in our area. As well, we have the fewest rooms for the amount of beachfront and we are not a family resort, the majority of guests being couples. While non-guests by law are allowed to be present on our beach, we do all within our power to maintain the most peaceful, romantic atmosphere in Aruba.

Can I send and receive e-mail from Bucuti Beach Resort?

Yes, and it is free. Wi-fi and Network connected internet access is available in all guest rooms and in our business center. Laptop computers are available for rent at $10 USD daily and should be reserved in advance by emailing your request to our concierge team at mis@bucuti.com. For an additional fee, purchase increased bandwidth to download music and movies. For more information and rates, please contact our IT manager: mis@bucuti.com

What is the difference between the various suites?

Here are the main differences between our various suites:

Bungalow Suites - These are located in a separate building near the pool, between the Bucuti and Tara Wings. Bungalow suites consist of one "L" shaped room, with a King bed in the sleeping area, a kitchenette a dining table and a sofa sitting area. We have three Bungalow suites in total, two face the ocean and allow guests to walk out onto the beach from the large redwood terrace and the third faces the garden. Although a very convenient location to the beach - they are not completely secluded from infrequent passersby going to the pool, restaurant or beach.

Jr. Suites - Our Jr. Suites are located in the Bucuti Wing, and we have two in total. They are located on the second and third floors and both face the ocean and have double balconies. Jr. Suites have one bedroom with two queen beds and a second room with a kitchen, dining area and sitting area with a couch.

Tara Beach Suites - These suites offer the more discriminating guest a stylish and romantic atmosphere in a concierge level standard of service. All Tara Suites accommodate a maximum of two adults and all suites are non-smoking. The Tara Suites are all oceanfront with a separate sleeping and living room. The sleeping room has a king bed, with a direct view of the beach and ocean. The living area has its own television, sofa sitting area, and a wet bar with fully stocked mini bar, mini fridge, microwave oven and coffee service and utensils for light snacks.

Tara Penthouse Suites - Our Tara Penthouse Suites offer luxury and spacious accommodations with panoramic views of Eagle Beach. Penthouse suites have four poster king beds with an ocean front view, a modern version of the claw foot bathtub for romantic bathing, a living room & dining room with ocean views, plasma screen TV, full service kitchen, and personal desktop computer with broadband internet service and Microsoft word processing and spreadsheet programs. (Internet service accessible at a daily charge of $10.00 for 24 hours or $35 per week)

What amenities are included in the rooms?

All room categories have hairdryers, iron & ironing boards, microwave ovens, coffee makers with free coffee/tea, mini bar, in-room first run movies, 110 volt electricity and USA plugs for appliances, ceiling fan, air-conditioning, one or two televisions, room safe, room folios available on the TV, and wireless broadband internet as well as iPod docking.

Suites have either wet bar, kitchenette or full kitchen and other unique features, please see accommodations section of our website for more detailed information including room floor plans. Additionally, the Tara Suites have light, comfortable waffle robes for your use during your visit. These robes are also available for purchase.

Where can I get my clothes cleaned?

A self-service laundry room is available in both the Bucuti and Tara Wing. $1.50 per load in quarters is required plus detergent, available in our gift shop. We also offer valet service with a local dry cleaning and laundry service for an additional fee.

MONEY & CURRENCY

Do I need to bring cash?

Our resort and restaurant accept all major credit cards, debit cards and signing privileges to guest rooms as payment for rooms, food and beverages, incidentals and all services within our resort. We stopped accepting cash as payment on December 23, 2008. While cash deposits are accepted on behalf of third party vendors such as dive operators and tour companies at the Concierge desk for deposits, the resort will not receive or dispense cash unless you make advance arrangements. To make arrangements to pay in cash, please contact us in advance of your visit: manager@bucuti.com. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this policy, please contact us.

Do you accept U.S. Dollars and Euros in Aruba?

Yes, around the island, U.S. Dollars are widely accepted in small denominations and Euros are accepted in select locations in Aruba. Due to severe counterfeit money problems, $100 and $50 dollar bills are rarely accepted. Twenty, ten and five dollar bills are accepted everywhere. At Bucuti, we have a cashless policy and accept all major credit cards and debit cards. Please contact us: manager@bucuti.com if you wish to organize a cash payment.

Are Travelers' checks accepted everywhere?

Yes, you may use U.S. Dollar travelers' checks throughout the island, at Bucuti however we have a cashless policy and will not have change for Travelers' checks unless you make advance arrangements. Contact us: manager@bucuti.com.

Can I use an automatic bank teller to draw money?

Yes, you may draw Aruban Florins from the local bank autotellers on many bank networks. Please consult your credit or debit card company to check for their location in Aruba. Our Activities desk can also help locate a location for you.

GETTING AROUND ARUBA

Where is Bucuti Beach Resort in relation to the Airport and Downtown Oranjestad?

Bucuti Beach Resort is located on Eagle Beach, 8 miles north of Queen Beatrix Airport, 3 miles north of downtown Oranjestad, 3 miles south of Palm Beach (High Rise Area) and 8 miles south of Tierra Del Sol Championship Golf Course, a five-minute walk from Aruba's new golf course Divi Links, and is located in the center of Aruba's visitor attractions.

Does the Bucuti Beach Resort provide airport transportation?

Hotel shuttle buses are not permitted to wait for guests at the airport arrival hall. Therefore we recommend a taxi as the most convenient transportation to Bucuti. The rate is $25 USD and there is also a surcharge of $2.00 USD (addition to the $25) for trips after midnight, on Sundays and holidays. The one-way trip from the airport will take about 15 minutes.

Should I rent a car for my entire stay?

The majority of our guests enjoy renting a 4-wheel drive vehicle for two or three days to roam the island and to visit restaurants and sites furthest from the resort. With the exception of guests arriving between Christmas and Easter, feedback from guests tell us they prefer to wait until they arrive on the island to have our Activities personnel help shop for the best vehicle at the best rate, and keep the car until they feel they are finished touring. For peak winter months it is best to make arrangements in the advance due to high demand and the possibility of sold out periods. Contact our concierge team for more information: concierge@bucuti.com. Be certain to bring your valid drivers license with you and credit card. You must be at least 25 years old to rent a car.

What about public transportation and taxis?

The bus stop for our area is located across the street from the Alhambra Casino, which is adjacent to our resort. The cost for a round trip ticket to Downtown or Palm Beach is $2 USD per person.

Taxi fares are regulated and you may inquire for any specific journey you are interested in with our concierge to learn the price in advance. For example, it costs $8 USD one-way to Oranjestad or Palm Beach. Surcharges are possible for late night/early morning fares or luggage.