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.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
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!
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