>>Aruba is not supposed to be like that though. It's a very low crime place, actually part of Holland. Or something like that, but who knows?
While I'm far from an expert, I can say that on my trip to Aruba 8 or 9 years ago, it seemed very, very safe. And while only there for a week, we did get out and around a good bit, and weren't just in the touristy places, as one of our group had lived there for several years. The place seemed much, much safer than what I hear about Jamaica or even Bermuda.
Stop with the "Aruba is safe" BS. In 1986, my XO's head was smashed in with a brick by "highwaymen" who were "hungry". We had pulled in for 4 days. He later died of those injuries. Charges brought. No convictions. So much for "Holland" and Peace. Another one of those "Little Europe" fables.
The Navy secured liberty for our ship for the remaining 2 days because 5,000 men would have burned the F'ing Island to the ground. In fact, it should still be burned to the ground from what it appears. I volunteer.