by Natasha Lair
Last updated: 9:30 AM ET, Tue August 5, 2025
The Aruba Tourism Authority is encouraging travellers to swap traditional vacations for trips that give back, with the launch of Aruba VTO—a new initiative inviting visitors to use their Volunteer Time Off (VTO) days for hands-on experiences that support the island's environment and communities.
While many companies offer VTO as part of their benefits package, only one in three employees takes advantage of it, according to Double the Donation.
"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."
To promote the program, Aruba has partnered with Corporate Natalie, a popular social media personality known for her workplace humour.
During her own VTO trip to Aruba, she volunteered at a beach cleanup and the Aruba Donkey Sanctuary.
Travellers can enter to win a custom out-of-office video message from Natalie at aruba.com/VTO until August 12, 2025. The site also offers a downloadable VTO request letter to help employees pitch their volunteer getaway to employers.
The Aruba VTO experience includes curated volunteer opportunities and special hotel packages designed to combine leisure with impact. Participating resorts include:
- Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort Aruba: Beach cleanup and visit to the Donkey Sanctuary, with meals and sustainable amenities.
- Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort: Marine conservation activities such as coral restoration and turtle nest monitoring.
- Courtyard by Marriott Aruba Resort: Birdwatching and family-friendly environmental programs at the Bubali Bird Sanctuary.
- Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino: "The Service Stay" includes volunteering at the Donkey Sanctuary, daily breakfast, and spa treatments.
- Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort Spa and Casino: Beach cleanup, a local aloe body scrub-making class, and spa and dining perks.
- Radisson Blu Aruba: Volunteer at the Donkey Sanctuary or explore San Nicolas' art scene; includes suite stay and airport transfers.
- TRYP by Wyndham Aruba: Palm Beach cleanup paired with a sunset sail, dinner, and paddleboard rentals.
Travellers are also encouraged to take The Aruba Promise—a pledge to treat the island with care and respect. Volunteering is one way to fulfill that promise, whether by preserving ecosystems or supporting local initiatives.
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