One week back to Aruba. Did a points exchange for the Phoenix one bedroom condo in the tower rm # 505. Two yrs. ago did an exchange to a 2 bedroom at Playa Linda rm# 621. comparing the two I would prefer the Playa Linda over the Phoenix as it was more accessible to activities, offered more daily activities, better bars and restaurant. Upside of the Phoenix was larger beach area and less crowding on the beach. Phoenix was clean and comfortable. No problems with elevators, French Market was wonderful and reasonably priced. Georgi at the bar was a great guy. Sunset Bistro was so-so. Madame Janettes far, far superior in food quality and service. We did our own breakfasts and lunches then ate out at night. We had a very relaxing sun filled vacation (compared to staying in the rain soaked Northeast durning that same week) and that is what the time was supposed to be all about. Aruba is a relaxing, sunny and windy place but you do not get ripped off or have to watch your back and bags constantly.

Just returned from the Phoenix and had a great time enjoying the hubsters b-day. We are in our forties and like to sun and engage in water sports. We were not disappointed. A little bit older crowd than we expected but there were young families with children also. Stayed in unit 601 nice, clean, didn't notice anything broken. A/c worked great, elevator slow though but who cares, your on vacation.The bar and resturant were good though slow service in the beach resturant. Sunsets were the best.Within walking distance for us to the Haitt? and casino(won there!) and all the other places to eat in the high rise area..Bus service from the Phoenix to downtown is easy, did not need to rent a car. Highly recommend El Gaouchos? Steak house.Made same day reservations( but told we just got lucky.)Did the Tattoo excursion but even though we are party people this was a bit on the wild side I thought.Snorkling was good up the road but not at the resort. Over all, had a blast and will go back!

We stayed in one bedroom unit that was located in the tower. Upon arrival we were told that only one of the two elevators was working. They asked guests to ride up but walk down. This is a 14 storey building and the stairs are located outside!!!!! My husband used the stairs quite a bit, but with an arthritic knee, I did not. The wait for the elevator was very long and as the staff needed to use it too, we were often crowded in the small elevator car. The food at the beach restaurant is wonderful and the French deli serves very good takeout as well as stocking liquor, wine, beer and snacks. The units are clean and there is a small kitchen that does not have a dishwasher. The lighting in the kitchen is horrid. The best thing about the unit was the views. We were able to see most of the island. Unfortuneately that will all change soon as they are building 3 - 8 story blocks that will take away most of the views from all but the highest units. The pool is very shallow and was really only used by children. The hot tub is small for such a big complex. The weather was wonderful and it was nice to be able to walk down the beachfront sidewalks to go and see other resorts. The Wyndham is just down the way and they have happy hour at 5pm and always had live music. We enjoyed going there very much.

we have been vacationing at the Phoenix for many years. have always found staff to be accomodating and conditions pleasant, great beach. Non the Ritz Carton, but a great place to be vacationing.