Discover Why Iberostar's New Aruba Resort is Ideal for Gen X Travelers

Karla Pope

Tue, January 27, 2026 at 11:49 AM UTC

Like many Gen X-ers (those born approximately between 1965 -1980), I always seek vacations that offer comfort, convenience, and of course, don't cost a fortune. Also, a little bit of luxury never hurts. Well, I got all of that and then some when my 50-something sister and I recently visited Joia Aruba by Iberostar , a part of IHG Hotels & Resorts. As Iberostar's first Aruba property, the newly opened hotel is situated on Eagle Beach—making it the perfect place to experience the beauty of the island.

As soon as we pulled up, we were immediately greeted by friendly staff who whisked us away to the lobby where refreshing welcome drinks infused with aloe awaited us. Since the property was under a year old when we arrived, the lobby exuded a pristine, high-gloss elegance, radiating the allure of something fresh and new.

Mauve, seafoam green and eggshell-colored couches and chairs were positioned throughout, complemented by end tables shaped like vintage suitcases.

The sea-inspired palette created a calming ambiance that instantly put my nervous system at ease. Plus, a stylish bar anchored the lobby — inviting guests to grab a drink before heading to their rooms.

After checking in, I instantly knew this sparkly new property would be an ideal hideaway for Gen X-ers like me and my sister who crave modern design coupled with low-key vibes. And we're not alone. In fact, a recent survey revealed that the number one reason Gen X-ers want to travel is to rest and recharge.

The Rooms

All 240 rooms have been designed with comfort and tranquility in mind. There are 14 different suite options ranging in size. My suite looked like it had been ripped from the pages of a glossy travel magazine. Bright, spacious, and airy, it was unlike any hotel space I'd ever stayed in.

The layout was unique with a dining area, vanity mirror and stool, and whirlpool—all in the primary room. Plus, there was a large private balcony with sweeping views of the island's famous Eagle Beach. What's more, the room's light blues and neutral hues mirrored the breathtaking surf and sand below. Not to mention, hand-painted parrotfish, essential to Aruba's ecosystem, adorned the walls.

The bathroom also boasted a one-of-a-kind design. Four mirrored panels unfolded to blur the boundary between bathroom and guestroom, ushering in fresh air and natural light. When opened, both spaces felt transformed.

That wasn't the only appealing feature. Ceiling-mounted Bluetooth speakers wrapped the space in seamless surround sound. That was the first time I'd ever experienced this modern amenity, and I enjoyed every minute of it.

Pools and Amenities

Thanks to the property's three large swimming pools, there's no shortage of places to take a dip. Plus, guests have access to the property's private beach area outfitted with comfy lounges, umbrellas, and swift beachside towel service.

My sister and I relaxed on the beach after breakfast to soak up the sun and sink our feet into the super soft white sand.

Food and Drinks

When it comes to dining options, Joia Aruba has three onsite restaurants: Bucatini, Marea,and Zima. All were deliciously satisfying.

Bucatini was the place to indulge in a massive breakfast buffet fit for royalty. Every morning of our three-night stay, we headed there for made-to-order omelets, fresh pastries and an array of Caribbean-inspired delights. Plus, there was also a mimosa station. For dinner, the restaurant switched to an Italian menu boasting traditional dishes like chicken parmesan, brick-oven pizza and creamy risotto. I got the latter topped with sizable prawns for a memorable meal.

For lunch, Marea was our go-to spot. Located near the beach, it has indoor and outdoor seating for al fresco dining. The first day I ordered fish tacos with cabbage salad and guacamole served with crispy yuca chips. They were so good, I ordered them for the rest of the trip. I also stuck with the same fruity mocktail the entire time because it was too refreshing and flavorful to stray. Marea also offered a selection of gelato flavors to cool down on those hot and humid days.

Zima, the rooftop bar was where all guests went for cocktails and late-night bites. It's also the property's place to enjoy live entertainment. The striking bar and breezy seating overlooking the infinity pool, set the stage for unforgettable Caribbean nights.

During our stay, a talented singer treated guests to renditions of pop, rock and R&B hits from the 1980s through the early 2000s—a trip down memory lane for many Gen X-ers like me who grew up listening and dancing to music from those decades.

There's also Star Café, the place to grab sweets and get caffeinated. Since I'm not a coffee drinker, I skipped the café. They also had grab-and-go fruit and sandwiches for quick bites.

Plus, five strategically placed bars throughout the resort ensure a drink is always within reach.

The Spa

As someone who absolutely loves spas, Joia Aruba didn't disappoint. The spa felt expansive and exuded the calm, serene atmosphere guests expect and appreciate. It has a steam room, hydrotherapy area, which includes an indoor pool and cold plunge—and seven treatment rooms. I lounged by the pool and sipped on infused water before my Swedish massage, which I'm still daydreaming about.

The spa also offers hair and nail services for those who want to beautify themselves during their stay.

Fun Activities

Again, since I'm all about pampering, I jumped at the opportunity to participate in an onsite, aloe vera-based scrub making class. The best part? It was completely complimentary. An instructor provided guests with everything we needed to make our own personal scrubs. The DIY, hands-on activity was one of the highlights of our trip. It was fun to make and doubled as a useful souvenir to remember our vacation.

Guests also have exclusive access to the nearby Tierra del Sol, an 18-hole course for golf enthusiasts who want to take a swing on the green.

For those who prefer a bit more action can also book offsite excursions through the hotel's concierge or butler (depending on room type and hotel status).

The Bottom Line

For Gen X-ers looking for a laidback place to unwind, Joia Aruba delivers in every way. With its cutting-edge coastal design, exceptional dining and front-row access to one of the world's most beautiful beaches, this property speaks directly to this generation's tastes on every level.

Plus, with a casino and another restaurant set to open later this year, it will offer even more to wow the Gen X crowd.

This story was originally published by Parade on Jan 27, 2026, where it first appeared in the Travel section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.