Anyone familiar with Aruba?

My friend is trying to plan her HM there for June. Dh & I went in August, 08. We stayed at RIU and LOVED it. My friend wants to stay there. My travel agent is telling me she's heard (from her customers) that things are being stolen and service is now terrible (it was AMAZING while we were there).

I googled RIU in Aruba and found reviews stating almost exactly word for word what my travel agent told me. I'm wondering if she's really heard this from ppl, or is also reading reviews online. The online reviews don't seem very credible to me..

I told my friend and said maybe she should stay somewhere else. She wants AI and a swimup bar is a big plus. I suggested Occidental since I know it's AI and has a swimup bar.

Anyone heard anything about RIU lately? Or know anything about Occidental?

TIA!

Re: Anyone familiar with Aruba?

My brother in law did a destination wedding at the Westin (which I believe is right next door to the RUI).

I went on my first HM to Aruba and stayed at the Hyatt. I personally would go there over and over again. Although it's not AI, you might be able to get a meal plan. It's the best by far in Aruba.