Aruba has officially announced the launch of Aruba VTO, which happens to be a new initiative, focused on helping travelers save their PTO (paid time-off) and instead use their VTO (volunteer time-off) days for meaningful, purpose-driven experiences on the One Happy Island.
To understand the significance of such a development, we must take into account one research conducted by Double the Donation where it was revealed that, even though many companies offer paid volunteer days no more than one in three employees actually use them,
In response, Aruba has reportedly teamed up with social media’s favorite professional, Corporate Natalie, who recently took her own VTO in Aruba. More on the same would reveal how participating hotels across Aruba will now offer thoughtfully designed packages that pair restorative stays with opportunities to give back to the community.
Talk about these participating hotels on a slightly deeper level, we begin from Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort, where the agenda is to support marine conservation through coral reef restoration, turtle nest monitoring, mangrove rehab, lionfish culling, and more.
Next up, we have Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort Aruba, which will look to protect Aruba’s coast with a beach cleanup and visit to the Donkey Sanctuary. Volunteers can also come expecting to enjoy breakfast at Passions on the Beach, sunset cocktails, and a sustainable welcome amenity.
Another property joining the mix would be Courtyard by Marriott Aruba Resort. The stated resort will empower guests to responsibly experience the island’s variety of birds through guided birdwatching, crafting, hands-on kids’ activities and more.
Beyond that, we have Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino which will allow guests to volunteer at the Donkey Sanctuary, and at the same time, avail daily breakfast and spa treatments for two. Moving on to Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort Spa and Casino, it will put-together a retreat-style package inclusive of beach cleanup, a private body scrub, access to local aloe, as well as dining, spa, and casino experiences.
Hold on, we still have a few bits left to unpack here, considering we haven’t yet touched upon the presence of Radisson Blu Aruba. This particular property will offer you a choice between caring for rescued animals at the Aruba Donkey Sanctuary, or if not that, you can explore San Nicolas street art and local cuisine.
Not just that, the stated package also includes a suite stay, private airport transfers, and a locally crafted welcome amenity.
Rounding up highlights would be TRYP by Wyndham Aruba, where you can take part in a Palm Beach cleanup. Once the participants are done with that, they can enjoy a sunset sail, 4-course dinner, champagne welcome, and paddleboard rentals.
“Aruba is more than just a beautiful destination, it’s a place where meaningful experiences and mindful travel go hand in hand,” said Ronella Croes, CEO of the Aruba Tourism Authority. “With Aruba VTO, we’re inviting guests to go beyond sightseeing and build a two-way connection with the island – one rooted in reciprocity, meaningful connection, and lasting impact. It’s a chance to experience Aruba with purpose, engage more deeply with our community, and be part of a shared promise to help preserve what makes our One Happy Island so special.”
