I certainly felt safer in Aruba than I do in the big city. There are murders here all the time. Kids, adults, and teenagers. Rape, drugs, clubs, and liquor are also here in the big city.
Those that think that some teenagers do not do the same (i.e. drink, have sex, rape, murder) in any US big city or small town for that matter, are in big denial.
To blame Aruba is ridiculous!
Well of course you felt safer in Aruba! After we took the 8 hour cruise on the sail boat and you got so sunburned, all you wanted to do was hide out in your room wearing the same subdress for 6 days. BTW, did you ever get that sun dress bronzed? It would have made a heck of souvenier of our trip there.
However, I do have pictures! (snicker)
Anyway, back on topic. Aruba isn't at fault here. As some who've had more recent experience there have attested to, it's a pretty safe place even when you get off the beaten path. Aruba didn't kill Natalee, people did.