Dreaming of a Caribbean island but you do not want to leave your four-legged friend behind? Then there’s good news for you with Aruba launching a tourism campaign: “Have Dog, Will Travel” spotlights dog-friendly hotel deals and through October 20, travellers will also be able to take advantage of some dog-inclusive experiences.

Bring your dog

“Aruba is a destination that not only allows you to bring your dog but welcomes them with open arms,” said Ronella Croes, CEO of the Aruba Tourism Authority. Aruba is working with two companies: Wag!, a platform connecting pet owners with on-demand and scheduled pet care services, and Avvinue, an online pet travel startup that helps travellers discover pet-friendly destinations by providing assistance with booking flights and pet reservations. 

Discount for pet owners

Visitors who book their pet-friendly travel through Avvinue and enter the promo code ‘ARUBA’ at the checkout will receive a $25 discount on an upcoming flight for themselves and their dog. Meanwhile, travellers who prefer to leave their dogs at home can sign up for one month free of Wag! Premium through this promotion, and enjoy a 10 per cent discount on any service they book through the company, including boarding and sitting services.

Aruba is home to several pet-friendly hotels that visitors can choose from. These are some examples:

• Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort Aruba extends its hospitality to the furriest of guests, welcoming them with treats and a water bowl upon arrival. For $10 a day, visitors and dogs of any size are encouraged to enjoy their paradise vacation.
• At the Courtyard by Marriott Aruba Resort, holidaymakers who stay four nights or more with their furry friends will receive 15% off their total. Travel must be valid through November 6, 2022. Pets must weigh no more than 20lbs, and travellers are subject to a $150 cleaning fee.
• Hyatt Place Aruba Airport allows travellers to bring their dogs; they are subject to a $75 fee for stays up to 6 nights.
• Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort Spa & Casino offers travellers and their dogs a welcome letter, biscuit, comfy dog bed, and food and water bowls upon arrival. For a $150 fee for up to 7 nights, owners can enjoy the bonus of a hands-on concierge that provides recommendations such as nearby walking routes, locations of other pet-friendly establishments and much more.
• The Ritz-Carlton Aruba offers pet-friendly amenities, including mini pet cabanas, gourmet pet food options in the room service and restaurant, and non-motorized water activities.

Aruba is one of the most revisited Caribbean destinations and offers beaches, culinary delights, the Arikok National Park, and some premium hotels and villas. The country was awarded a top spot on Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2020 list due to their ambitious sustainability efforts.