Aruba has long been a popular destination for summer vacations and for good reasons. Aruba boasts of a wonderful blend of Dutch and Aruban culture that you’ll definitely love. Here are a few must-see destinations if you’d like to tour Aruba this summer:
Oranjestad is the capital city that is found at the southern coast. It boasts of Dutch colonial architecture that were absorbed into the local culture with their pastel colors. Make sure to check out the wharf where merchants sell fresh seafood and produce which can be cooked into a refreshing meal. If vacation to you is synonymous with shopping, then Oranjestad is the just the place for you.
The Butterfly Farm is located right across the Divi Phoenix Hotel on Irausquin Boulevard. This 3,000-square-foot farm is the home of several varieties of butterflies from all over the world. It’s also filled with waterfalls and fish ponds that lend an air of mystique. Coupled with a relaxing new-age music, you’ll find yourself thoroughly relaxed and awash with peace in this lovely place.
Arikok National Park is an ecological park and wilderness preserve that makes up of 20 per cent of the entire land area of Aruba. It has 21 miles of hiking trails where you can view the island’s native plants and animals. Inside the park are the famous divi-divi trees, cacti, aloe plants, and other tropical blooms. If you’re into animals, watch the local rabbits, Kododo Blauw lizards, and the Cascabel rattlesnakes in their natural habitat.
You can’t leave Aruba without seeing the natural bridge that spans 100 feet. It is a coral formation which was formed after the endless beatings of the sea. Because of this, a natural land bridge was formed that is about 23 feet above sea level. Don’t look to see where the bridge goes because it does not go anywhere but right at the beach where you find it.
Along with the Natural Bridge is the Natural Pool which might be hard to get to on horseback or an all-terrain vehicle. However, once there, you’ll be thankful that you’ve braved the rough trip. The ocean waves crash up and over the rocks that surround the natural pool. On calm days, you will be sure to have fun.
If you want to have some diving fun, you should not miss the Antilla as it is an impressive wreck of a submarine. You can also view some fish, green moray eels, and sea turtles that swim around this wreck. You don’t need to be a pro to dive and see the ship’s structure. The depth of the dive is about 50 feet at its maximum but you can view the wreck even at 35 feet.
Another historical point of interest is the California Lighthouse which was built in 1914. It was named after a wooden ship sailing from England to Venezuela and was run aground in 1891. Around the lighthouse are acres of flat land called California White Sand Dunes which are perfect for dune surfing.
Relax and enjoy your stay in Aruba and you’ll be sure to go home well-rested and refreshed. You’ll love Aruba so much that you’ll return to this island again and again. Aruba travel information is available and so is an Aruba Vacation Guide.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Aruba: fun things you can do
In my last blog, I talked about snuba, that happy combination of snorkeling and scuba diving which has always been the rage in Aruba. But not all activities are water-related. Aruba has much more to offer if you prefer the “drier” activities – “drier” not necessarily equating to “boring.” Nothing’s ever boring when in Aruba. Ask the natives and tourists – they’ll only be too glad to recite a litany of off-water that you can turn into an adventure. There are lots of things to do in Aruba.
If you or your significant other or your kids are into butterflies, do visit the Butterfly Farm. It sits right across from the Aruba Phoenix Hotel. You’ll be treated to various butterflies that come from all over the world. The Butterfly Farm is open from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm seven days a week. Join a guide as she takes you on a fascinating tour, explaining the life cycle of butterflies in 25 minutes or less.
Aruba’s ecological treasure is nestled in Akiko National Park. This park occupies about 20% of Aruba’s total land area and covers three geographical formations: lava, quartz diorite and limestone formations. You might come across some snakes - rattlesnake, cat-eyed snake and the whiptail lizard. But Akiko National Park has other attractions to delight all five senses. You’ll see plenty of native art, abandoned gold mines and early farms.
Your kids might marvel at the iguanas and parakeets in Aruba. Be sure to pack a good size bottle of suntan lotion. Wear comfortable shoes! The address is San Fuego 71, and the park’s telephone number is +297-5851234.
If you or your significant other or your kids are into butterflies, do visit the Butterfly Farm. It sits right across from the Aruba Phoenix Hotel. You’ll be treated to various butterflies that come from all over the world. The Butterfly Farm is open from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm seven days a week. Join a guide as she takes you on a fascinating tour, explaining the life cycle of butterflies in 25 minutes or less.
Aruba’s ecological treasure is nestled in Akiko National Park. This park occupies about 20% of Aruba’s total land area and covers three geographical formations: lava, quartz diorite and limestone formations. You might come across some snakes - rattlesnake, cat-eyed snake and the whiptail lizard. But Akiko National Park has other attractions to delight all five senses. You’ll see plenty of native art, abandoned gold mines and early farms.
Your kids might marvel at the iguanas and parakeets in Aruba. Be sure to pack a good size bottle of suntan lotion. Wear comfortable shoes! The address is San Fuego 71, and the park’s telephone number is +297-5851234.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Snuba in Aruba: what fun!
Because snuba is a popular water sport in Aruba (everyone kept saying “awesome” and “snuba rocks”), I thought it was an island invention. I was surprised to learn that it’s actually a Californian invention and is now practised in Hawaii, Mexico, the Caribbean and even as far away as Thailand!
Snuba is a 30-year old aquatic recreation developed back in 1989 by Michael Stafford. It is owned by Snuba International who holds the licensing rights. You might have guessed that snuba is a happy marriage between snorkeling and scuba diving. It’s a lot more fun because you’re less encumbered by heavy gear (like the oxygen tank you have to carry on your back when scuba diving). You get your oxygen through an air line which is placed on the surface of the raft. It’s safe because the air line does not allow you to go deeper than six meters.
A friend who lives in Aruba permanently told me that unlike scuba diving, you don’t need certification, nor do you need scuba diving experience, although you wouldn’t want to venture out on your own. Instructors still must accompany people who engage in the sport. Even children over eight years old can snuba. Gear is minimal:
People who snuba in Aruba enjoy the experience immensely. Aruba beaches are beautiful and the underwater scene is a different world and they say that if one were to spend some time in Aruba, half or more that time should be underwater!
Snuba is a 30-year old aquatic recreation developed back in 1989 by Michael Stafford. It is owned by Snuba International who holds the licensing rights. You might have guessed that snuba is a happy marriage between snorkeling and scuba diving. It’s a lot more fun because you’re less encumbered by heavy gear (like the oxygen tank you have to carry on your back when scuba diving). You get your oxygen through an air line which is placed on the surface of the raft. It’s safe because the air line does not allow you to go deeper than six meters.
A friend who lives in Aruba permanently told me that unlike scuba diving, you don’t need certification, nor do you need scuba diving experience, although you wouldn’t want to venture out on your own. Instructors still must accompany people who engage in the sport. Even children over eight years old can snuba. Gear is minimal:
- Diving mask
- Swimfins
- Weights
- Diving regulator
People who snuba in Aruba enjoy the experience immensely. Aruba beaches are beautiful and the underwater scene is a different world and they say that if one were to spend some time in Aruba, half or more that time should be underwater!
Monday, May 10, 2010
Drinking Water in Aruba - No Worries!
When people travel, one of the first things they ask is if the water at their destination is safe to drink. This is never my concern when I travel to Aruba. I have been there many times and have drunk tap water regularly. Not once did I feel ill.
Yes, the drinking water in Aruba is safe. Not only is it safe, but it has also been praised for its excellent quality and delicious taste. That’s because the island’s water comes from the second largest desalinization plant. I feel bad whenever I see first time tourists to Aruba carry heavy jugs of bottled water. I sigh and ask, “whatever for?” But I know they’ll learn about the water’s high grade quality soon enough.
It’s important to remember that Aruba has a semi-arid climate. Given the number of tourists who visit every year and the significant growth in population, officials wondered what this might do to the water supply. So back in 2000, the island decided to use ultra-violet technology instead of chlorine to purify the water supply. This desalinization plant is located in the old gold ruins in Oranjestad, the capital.
My curiosity brought me to this plant and I was amazed at the size - you could compare it to half the size of a football field. I was told by my guide that Aruba takes an extra precaution in purifying the water by subjecting it to ultraviolet disinfection technology before distribution to residents. There are five ultraviolet disinfection systems located at strategic points in the island and are installed at a slight elevation. When water goes through these systems, it is usually the last treatment stage before it reaches the homes and offices of Arubans.
Leave your bottled water at home, folks…
Yes, the drinking water in Aruba is safe. Not only is it safe, but it has also been praised for its excellent quality and delicious taste. That’s because the island’s water comes from the second largest desalinization plant. I feel bad whenever I see first time tourists to Aruba carry heavy jugs of bottled water. I sigh and ask, “whatever for?” But I know they’ll learn about the water’s high grade quality soon enough.
It’s important to remember that Aruba has a semi-arid climate. Given the number of tourists who visit every year and the significant growth in population, officials wondered what this might do to the water supply. So back in 2000, the island decided to use ultra-violet technology instead of chlorine to purify the water supply. This desalinization plant is located in the old gold ruins in Oranjestad, the capital.
My curiosity brought me to this plant and I was amazed at the size - you could compare it to half the size of a football field. I was told by my guide that Aruba takes an extra precaution in purifying the water by subjecting it to ultraviolet disinfection technology before distribution to residents. There are five ultraviolet disinfection systems located at strategic points in the island and are installed at a slight elevation. When water goes through these systems, it is usually the last treatment stage before it reaches the homes and offices of Arubans.
Leave your bottled water at home, folks…
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Mi stima Aruba - I love Aruba!
Mi stima Aruba (or in plain English, I love Aruba!)
I was in Aruba last month and I left it with a heavy heart. People may leave their hearts in San Francisco, but they probably haven’t discovered Aruba. Aruba is the kind of place that gives the words “tourist Mecca” true meaning. My friends asked a lot of questions and each time I say to them, “you gotta see it for yourself.” No description – no matter how colourful and accurate – will justify the actual experience. Aruba is one experience you can’t live vicariously. You have to be there in the flesh, and let the sound of the wind and the playful waves fill all your five senses.
I went to Aruba to break away from my hectic business in the US, to exchange downtown traffic for the slower and lazier pace of this piece of Caribbean paradise. I needed a vacation, but more importantly, I was curious to see if the wind turbines were up yet. The last time I was there, the locals were saying that 10 turbines should be up and running by January 2010.
There they were, all 10 of them and standing tall! Aruba has excellent wind power. Aruba’s Windpark Vader Piet is the site of this project, and this marks Aruba’s effort to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels for producing electricity - proof that Aruba is stepping up their green initiatives. These 10 wind turbines will generate and satisfy about 18% of Aruba’s need for electricity. That’s quite an achievement considering that Aruba’s population is barely over 100,000.
Do it SETAR’s way!
One of the questions a friend asked is how one can go about getting in touch with the outside world once in Aruba. It’s easy. I explained to my friend that Aruba isn’t exactly in the back woods because they have a sophisticated communications system. What I would recommend is if you have an international phone, take it with you to Aruba and upon landing, head for the SETAR kiosk at the airport and purchase a SIM card with pre-paid minutes. If you don’t have an international phone, rent a cell phone from SETAR.
Book that Aruba Hotel
Even when it’s not peak season, reserve a hotel before taking off for Aruba, only because you’ll be asked by immigration officials where you’re staying. Aruba’s # 1 industry is tourism and given its ideal all-year round weather (average 82 degrees F), people descend on Aruba in droves. And I’m not just talking about the international students. Retirees and casino diehards put Aruba on top of their list as a fun destination, so don’t take any chances with those hotel bookings. It’s best to have a confirmed reservation before you leave.
If you’re not renting a car at the airport, cab fare to any of the major hotels will cost you about US$22.00. Not a steep price to pay for comfort and convenience. Cab drivers are a pleasant lot, and are quite knowledgeable about Aruba.
Safety concerns? Put your mind at rest. Aruba is one of the safest places in the Caribbean. And even if the locals speak Papiamento and Dutch, you’ll manage beautifully with your American English!
I was in Aruba last month and I left it with a heavy heart. People may leave their hearts in San Francisco, but they probably haven’t discovered Aruba. Aruba is the kind of place that gives the words “tourist Mecca” true meaning. My friends asked a lot of questions and each time I say to them, “you gotta see it for yourself.” No description – no matter how colourful and accurate – will justify the actual experience. Aruba is one experience you can’t live vicariously. You have to be there in the flesh, and let the sound of the wind and the playful waves fill all your five senses.
I went to Aruba to break away from my hectic business in the US, to exchange downtown traffic for the slower and lazier pace of this piece of Caribbean paradise. I needed a vacation, but more importantly, I was curious to see if the wind turbines were up yet. The last time I was there, the locals were saying that 10 turbines should be up and running by January 2010.
There they were, all 10 of them and standing tall! Aruba has excellent wind power. Aruba’s Windpark Vader Piet is the site of this project, and this marks Aruba’s effort to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels for producing electricity - proof that Aruba is stepping up their green initiatives. These 10 wind turbines will generate and satisfy about 18% of Aruba’s need for electricity. That’s quite an achievement considering that Aruba’s population is barely over 100,000.
Do it SETAR’s way!
One of the questions a friend asked is how one can go about getting in touch with the outside world once in Aruba. It’s easy. I explained to my friend that Aruba isn’t exactly in the back woods because they have a sophisticated communications system. What I would recommend is if you have an international phone, take it with you to Aruba and upon landing, head for the SETAR kiosk at the airport and purchase a SIM card with pre-paid minutes. If you don’t have an international phone, rent a cell phone from SETAR.
Book that Aruba Hotel
Even when it’s not peak season, reserve a hotel before taking off for Aruba, only because you’ll be asked by immigration officials where you’re staying. Aruba’s # 1 industry is tourism and given its ideal all-year round weather (average 82 degrees F), people descend on Aruba in droves. And I’m not just talking about the international students. Retirees and casino diehards put Aruba on top of their list as a fun destination, so don’t take any chances with those hotel bookings. It’s best to have a confirmed reservation before you leave.
If you’re not renting a car at the airport, cab fare to any of the major hotels will cost you about US$22.00. Not a steep price to pay for comfort and convenience. Cab drivers are a pleasant lot, and are quite knowledgeable about Aruba.
Safety concerns? Put your mind at rest. Aruba is one of the safest places in the Caribbean. And even if the locals speak Papiamento and Dutch, you’ll manage beautifully with your American English!
Aruba Vacation Guide Book
The only problem with going on vacation in Aruba is if you've never been and don't know all the "ins and outs" of the island. Knowing what to do for fun in Aruba, the best places to eat in Aruba and the general information you should know about Aruba is important to have beforehand to assure an enjoyable vacation.
I highly recommend the Aruba Vacation Guide book for those seeking to have a really enjoyable time in Aruba. Even if you've been there before, there's probably some tips, ideas and useful information you could use. This inexpensive Aruba book of information can be downloaded and read on the computer, or printed and brought with you to Aruba.
I highly recommend the Aruba Vacation Guide book for those seeking to have a really enjoyable time in Aruba. Even if you've been there before, there's probably some tips, ideas and useful information you could use. This inexpensive Aruba book of information can be downloaded and read on the computer, or printed and brought with you to Aruba.
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