On its website and in its specialist training program at TravelAgentAcademy.com, Aruba touts the glorious phenomenon it calls the "Aruba Effect": the overwhelming sense of happiness that comes from being in one of the most naturally joyful places on Earth - and it's accompanied by a peaceful afterglow that will warm your clients' days long after they return. Many factors go into creating this effect, some of which we'll look at here.

With desert terrain constantly cooled by trade winds, Aruba has more sunny days than any other Caribbean island, and its temperatures average 82 degrees. A bonus for anyone planning outdoor activities and events is Aruba's location outside the Caribbean hurricane belt, which expands the vacation season considerably. So go ahead and plan your clients' family vacation or wedding on the beach when the time suits them - they'll experience less stress and an abundance of bliss.

About the size of Rhode Island, Aruba is a small island that nevertheless encompasses diverse natural wonders, each emanating singular beauty. Pristine beaches of powdery white sand and crystalline waters abound, but visitors have even more to explore such as massive sand dunes offering views of the rock-hewn coast on Aruba's northern tip, systems of caves exhibiting mysterious rock drawings as well as stalactites and stalagmites, natural bridges and other stunning geological formations carved by coastal waters, and a natural pool set among volcanic stones.

Beautiful terrain touched by gentle breezes makes ideal conditions for hiking, ATV driving and horseback riding, while most every water activity conceivable - such as snorkeling, diving, surfing, paddleboarding, catamaran rides, kite- and wind-surfing - is on offer at or near Aruba's beaches, especially in the resort areas.

Burrowing owls are fascinating creatures, and Aruba has a particularly endearing species all its own -- the tiny Shoco. Your clients can learn about Shocos and other wildlife endemic to Aruba (such as the warawra, kinikini and whiptail lizard) at the Arikok National Park. The Bubali Bird Sanctuary, the Butterfly Farm, Donkey Sanctuary, Ostrich Adventures and Philip's Animal Garden offer yet even more creature encounters that will delight all ages.

Have your clients stroll about and view the stunningly vibrant street art in the city of San Nicolas, created by international and local artists, or suggest that they attend the Bon Bini Festival on a Tuesday night in Oranjestad, which celebrates Aruba's unique culture through traditional music and dance, as well as local art and food. The island has museums devoted to its Amerindian heritage, with artifacts dating to 2500 B.C., as well as ones showcasing antiques and curiosities from throughout the Western world, while the California Lighthouse and Balashi Gold Mill make for great outdoor touring.

Flavors from around the world can be found on this ethnically diverse island, presented by world-class chefs in beautiful settings. Over 100 restaurants are located in the strip in Palm Beach, with plenty more in the capital city of Oranjestad, while food and wine tours, festivals and Chef's Table programs further energize Aruba's culinary scene.

While it's wonderful for a destination to offer great weather, stunning natural and cultural attractions, and terrific food, a vacation in Aruba would not have its transformative allure without the island's hospitable and friendly people. Arubans are famous for their welcoming and open attitude toward all who visit. Also, many speak at least four languages, including English.

There are even more contributing factors to the Aruba Effect, from nightlife to well-appointed accommodations to romance offerings. In fact, the Aruba Certified Expert Program at TravelAgentAcademy.com is complemented by an entire module devoted to romance, where you can learn about the island's booking incentives and vast resources for wedding planning as well as staging events such as proposals, bachelor/bachelorette parties and honeymoons. Encouraging your couples to celebrate their love on this ever-happy island will be an easy sell!