Viva Aruba

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Byline: LAURIE MARGOLIS

THERE'S one travel rule I've found pretty reliable.

If the Americans like it, there's good reason. Yes, we may laugh at their 'if it's Tuesday, it must be Rome' mentality.

But, unlike we British who, even these days, will make the most of it when the rooms are small and the food lousy, Americans demand quality and value.

Hotels must be comfortable and clean, the food good and pleasantly served.

Beaches have to be immaculate, the water safe, and streets secure. Fail, and the dollar goes somewhere else.

Thus, I've long been intrigued by a favourite American destination that is barely a blip on the British holiday radar.

Mention Aruba, even to quite welltravelled Britons, and there will be a furrowing of brows.

Say Aruba to an American, and you hit the travellers' G-spot. The Americans love Aruba.

There's the weather. Even the best hotspots have periods when a brolly is …