Aruba was amazing. You were right in that all inclusive is not necessary, but for the price you got us we weren’t mad we did it. We barely ate at the hotel and went out to eat every night because the food was so good. We liked the Barcelo but would likely explore other places to stay if we went again just to see what’s there. The area we stayed was great. There are a group of hotel right there with restaurants and shops that I would definitely stay in that area again. Transportation is easy and all cabs take cash. We would definitely go back!