Blogging to Aruba

10 Top Kid-Friendly Hotels: Travel News from Fodor's Travel Guides

2012-02-24T08:00:00.006-05:00

Something which our family learned quite some time ago!

Link: 10 Top Kid-Friendly Hotels: Travel News from Fodor's Travel Guides

New Revelations From Recent Excavations!

2012-02-23T08:00:00.000-05:00

February 9th, 2012- Aruba’s archeological team of the National Archeological Museum of Aruba, has uncovered a sixth grave in Santa Cruz. Based on certain characteristics, they have concluded that this must be a prehistoric graveyard. In the opinion of the team, what makes this discovery unique is not only that it was previously unknown, but that they were able to identify that there were several persons buried at different levels of importance buried at the site and buried in different ways. It is also interesting that the persons buried have different European characteristics as well as Amerindian; but there were no Caquetios in this find.

From what we know of the Historical Period of our island, it is probable that up to the 17th century Indians lived in the Santa Cruz area. Thereafter they left the Santa Cruz area and went to live in the Seroe Cristal area in the 18th century in the Alto Vista neighborhood. Apparently they wanted to move away as far away as possible from the Europeans who lived on the southwestern coast of Aruba. They deliberately chose strategic areas for their abode. During the 19th century, the Aruba government stimulated agriculture and allowed people to return to live in Santa Cruz, which was previously not permitted.

As the team continues the excavation project, they will investigate further for more clarity on the context and the exact time period. All indications point to an early Historic Period, but at the same time it could also have been a much later period. In any event we know that this find reveals that those who lived here were mixed between Europeans and Indians. This excavation may also show that people probably lived in Santa Cruz much earlier than what is believed.

This archeological excavation is very unique and requires a great deal of expertise and investigation to document the findings of each grave including the other findings in this fascinating archeological site. The team consists of Drs. Harold Kelly who is responsible for the planning and execution of the work at the site; Francisco Croes and Hiram Angela, who are the two assistants of the archeologist. All of the work is under the supervision of archeologist Drs. Raymond Dijkhoff.

Every bone and bit of earth around the skeleton and general characteristics of the grave is registered, documented, described and analyzed to determine the final destination of those people forgotten in Aruba’s history.

Story Courtesy of The Morning News

Aruba for the Amorous

2012-02-22T08:00:00.000-05:00

Romance in Aruba

Link: Aruba for the Amorous

Aruba Driving Tour: Nouth End of the Island

2012-02-21T08:00:00.001-05:00

From Oranjestad exploring the northern end of the island, it is easy to take the main road, 1A/1B towards the north past the low rise and high rise hotels. For the longer route and view of the beaches, make the first left for the low rise hotels and follow the road, past Druif Beach, Manchebo Beach, Eagle Beach and then the high rise resorts on Palm Beach. Turn right at the South Beach Mall onto Palm Beach Rd. in Palm Beach (3A/3B), and then turn left at the next traffic light onto the main highway 1A/1B.

This coastal road will take you through the prosperous neighborhoods of Malmok and Arashi and wind up the road to the top of the hill and the California lighthouse. You will see signs for the California lighthouse along the way.

From the lighthouse, off to the east you will see the well worn dirt trail which you can follow along the coastline towards the south to get you to the Alto Vista Chapel (up on the hill to the west), the beaches at Wariruri Bay, Budui Bay, the Bushiribana Gold Smelter Ruins, Boca Mahos and following the path, ultimately, the remains of the former Natural Bridge. From the Natural Bridge facing southeast, you will be able to see Andicuri Beach in the distance. Unfortunately I have never seen the paths good enough to navigate, even with a 4 x 4, on down towards.

NOTE: Heading southeast on the map, past Andicuri Beach, you will see the next sight is Three Bridges. You cannot access it from the Natural Bridge. That is unless you are on horseback. Otherwise you can get there by 4 x 4 coming from the inland route, as well as Andicuri Beach. It is a long difficult trek to get there. Some folks will tell you that it can be done, and they have done it. Just be prepared to have enough insurance to replace the vehicle as well as a cell phone if you need to get dug out or have more than one flat tire.

For a swimming detour, you can easily stop at Arashi Beach or for snorkeling, enter the water at Boca Catalina and head north for the best underwater views.

Please do not try to swim anywhere along the eastern coast of the island. The water is too treacherous and you will signs posted stating as much.

Sorry I cannot give you a time frame for this route, it is all dependent upon traffic in Oranjestad and how many stops you choose to take and how long you spend at each stop.

WestJet unveils service to Kingston, Jamaica and Aruba

2012-02-20T08:00:00.000-05:00

Airline's summer schedule is gonna be hot, mon

CALGARY, Jan. 30, 2012 /CNW/ - WestJet today unveiled details of its summer schedule for 2012, which features two new sun destinations and the expansion of service from seasonal to year-round on four popular winter routes. The announcement comes following WestJet's release of new service between Toronto and New York's LaGuardia Airport, and details of domestic service to Whitehorse, Yukon.

WestJet will launch non-stop service between Toronto Pearson International Airport and Kingston, Jamaica, three times per week on Mondays, Fridays and Sundays starting April 30, 2012. On May 6, non-stop weekly service on Sundays between Aruba and Toronto Pearson will begin.

Full schedule details and great introductory one-way fares from $149 to Kingston and $189 to Aruba (plus applicable taxes and fees) are available by visiting westjet.com, by calling WestJet's Sales Super Centre at 1-888-WESTJET (937-8538) or through your preferred travel agent. Flights to Kingston are subject to government approval.

"Once again, we believe this schedule represents measured and balanced growth across our network," said John MacLeod, WestJet Vice-President, Network Management and Alliances. "We believe Kingston will be well received by Canadians and Jamaicans travelling between the island and Canada. Aruba's friendly people and beautiful landscape make it the ideal destination for families and couples, and a great addition to WestJet Vacations product offerings."

Starting in February, WestJet Vacations will offer flexible and great-value vacation packages to Aruba. Experience the island's turquoise waters and brilliant sand beaches, perfect for family getaways, groups and destination weddings. For more information, visit westjetvacations.com, contact a WestJet Vacations Experience Specialist at 1-877-737-7001 or see your preferred travel agent.

WestJet will also extend its non-stop service from seasonal to year-round between the following cities:

Vancouver and Kona
Vancouver and Kauai
Toronto and Santa Clara, Cuba
Toronto and San Juan, Puerto Rico

"This is an exciting time for our airline," concluded John MacLeod. "WestJetters across our network are excited to bring guests to these new destinations, introducing them to our great service and low fares."

Kingston and Aruba are WestJet's 29th and 30th sun destinations with non-stop service from Toronto Pearson International Airport. With a convenient domestic schedule offering connections via Toronto, experiencing a Caribbean getaway this summer begins at westjet.com.

About WestJet
WestJet is Canada's favourite airline, offering scheduled service throughout its 75-city North American and Caribbean network. Inducted into Canada's Most Admired Corporate Cultures Hall of Fame and named one of Canada's best employers, WestJet pioneered low-cost flying in Canada. WestJet offers increased legroom and leather seats on its modern fleet of 97 Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft. With future confirmed deliveries for an additional 38 aircraft through 2018, WestJet strives to be one of the five most successful international airlines in the world.

About WestJet Vacations
WestJet Vacations provides guests with affordable, reliable and easy-to-book travel experiences to 45 destinations in 13 countries, including the United States, Mexico and the Caribbean. Leveraging WestJet's fun and friendly image, extensive network and world-class guest experience, WestJet Vacations offers guests a great flight schedule and a wide variety of hotel and resort options to create fun and affordable vacation experiences. For more information, visit www.westjetvacations.com.

Connect with WestJet on Facebook at www.facebook.com/westjet
Follow WestJet on Twitter at www.twitter.com/westjet
Subscribe to WestJet on YouTube at www.youtube.com/westjet

Roland is on the look-out for friends and family members

2012-02-18T08:00:00.000-05:00

We would like to introduce Roland to you, one of the donkeys living at the Aruban Donkey Sanctuary. A big, fuzzy sweetheart of a donkey, who has stolen the hearts of all the volunteers. Roland can always be found in the company of his friend Pepper. Roland always grooms Pepper, so the volunteers hardly need to brush him. This grooming entails softly biting the fur and scouring, cleaning the donkey in the process. The hooves keep their right length because of the many stones that are on the property: the hooves wear themselves down this way. Roland is a model donkey: always friendly, always happy and quiet. He loves to watch the action from a distance.

This beautiful donkey has been provided with a chip, just like all the other donkeys. On the chip is information about the donkey and its medical history. The donkeys at the sanctuary have a lot of friends with whom they can play all day long. And they love living there: they are well-cared for, they are fed and watered and when they are sick the vet is called. Yes, they are expensive customers for the sanctuary.

The volunteers are trying to cover the various costs with all kinds of activities and the sale of great donkey memorabilia in the shop. Fortunately, there are also visitors who wish to adopt a donkey, who buy something at the donkey shop or who make a donation. Thus they help support us. Everyone is welcome to visit the sanctuary, which has opening hours from 9 am until 4 pm and in the weekend from 10 am until 3. Entry is free of charge and one can enjoy a soft drink, a cup of coffee or a refreshing ice cream.

The volunteers of the sanctuary are hoping that somebody will adopt this friendly, lovely donkey. Of course the donkey will keep on living at the sanctuary; you only need to pay AWG. 30,-- [$16.76 USD] per month for the donkey’s keep. With this amount you help support the sanctuary as well as your own donkey. And you will receive a beautiful certificate and a super T-shirt and your name and photo will be posted on our website. So please call the sanctuary at 593-2933; you can also register via the website www.arubandonkey.org or donate money on bank account number 40.03.025 at the Aruba Bank! Just do it!

Top 25 Trendiest Hotels in Caribbean

2012-02-17T08:00:00.000-05:00

19. Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort and Casino- Palm/Eagle Beach, Aruba

Grammy Award-Winning Superstar R. Kelly Headlines 2012 Soul Beach Music Festival

2012-02-16T08:00:00.001-05:00

Memorial Day Weekend Experience Featuring the Best in Comedy and R&B Hosted by Aruba

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 15, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Soul Beach Music Festival hosted by Aruba is proud to announce that multi-platinum selling, chart-topping, Grammy award-winning powerhouse R. Kelly will headline the 2012 SOUL BEACH MUSIC FESTIVAL being held May 23-28 in Aruba. Joining an already stellar legacy by world-renowned guest artists, R. Kelly will headline the main stage of the Nikki Beach Amphitheater closing night, Sunday, May 27. Known for his mesmerizing live stage show, the multi-instrumentalist, producer and vocalist R. Kelly will perform an electrifying set, allowing Festival-goers a chance to turn up the heat on Memorial Day weekend with one of the most notable artists of the decade. Decor here is cosmopolitan tropical: turquoise bliss set against caramel sensations. Aruba isn't just somewhere you visit. It's something you experience.

"Aruba welcomes all the fans of the Soul Beach Music Festival for another celebration of spectacular performances and a chic island ambiance under the starry skies and on Aruba's famous beaches," said Otmar Oduber, Minister of Tourism, Transportation and Labor.

"We are thrilled to bring the incredible R. Kelly to the 2012 SOUL BEACH MUSIC FESTIVAL in Aruba," said Mark Adkins, producer. "Fans can look forward to an amazing weekend of great performances this Memorial Day Weekend with a combination of sizzling beach parties, luscious dining and plush Night Club after parties."

The 2012 SOUL BEACH MUSIC FESTIVAL rolls out more highly anticipated announcements of main stage performing artists in the weeks to come. For information about ticket sales, accommodations and the latest updates sign up for the SOUL BEACH CLUB, visit http://www.soulbeach.net or http://www.aruba.com. Join the SOUL BEACH MUSIC FESTIVAL community: follow us on Twitter @SoulBeachMusic and become a fan of 2012 SOUL BEACH MUSIC FESTIVAL on www.Facebook.com/soulbeachmusic.

The 2012 SOUL BEACH MUSIC FESTIVAL is sponsored by the Aruba Tourism Authority, Aruba Hotel and Tourism Association, Renaissance Aruba Resorts & Casino, The Westin Resort & Casino, Aruba, De Palm Tours and Economy Car Rental.

Aruba, One happy island, is truly an extraordinary experience. Located only two-and-a-half hours by air from Miami and four hours from New York City, the island is ideally situated in the southern Caribbean and boasts year-round cooling trade winds and perfect weather with average annual temperatures of 82 Fahrenheit and less than 20 inches of rainfall per year. Aruba serves up 28 luxurious hotels/resorts, championship golf courses, sumptuous spas, vibrant casinos, extraordinary international and local cuisine, exclusive shops and boutiques, exciting land and water activities, art galleries and museums, world-famous festivals and events, clubs and cafes with live music and world class beaches. The backdrop of a cosmopolitan tropical destination with warm, hospitable people is the perfect place for first-time guests and loyal visitors. For more information, please call 1-800-TO-ARUBA, visit us online at www.aruba.com or find us on Facebook.

2 Fools and a Bull Now Open on Palm Beach

2012-02-15T08:00:00.001-05:00

February 8th, 2012

Popular chef Fred Wanders and super restaurateur Paul Faas have recently opened their Fool Fantasy kitchen, on Palm Beach 17, opting for an unusual name: 2 Fools and a Bull.

The bull is a leftover from the former Espanjola Way which occupied the charming cunucu premises for a short time last year. The 2 Fools prefix attests to the fact that both Fred and Paul are in possession of a typical self-deprecating Dutch humor, and that they are fearless innovators, in the kitchen and outside it, going out on a limb with a fun name for a Gourmet Studio, created by two good, life-long friends!

Paul loves to say: Don’t be fooled by the name, and indeed the place has been totally transformed into a unique environment with Fred in the kitchen and Paul in the dining room, offering a culinary experience, in lieu of just dinner.

The u-shaped dining table is beautifully set for 17, it faces the kitchen and an authentic and fully restored French firewall, the only one of its kind in the Caribbean. The unusual grill was imported from Holland and now goes to work, every night, contributing to the delicious main courses.

While the decor in soothing gray and green is peppered with whimsical touches, the seating around the dining bar is very comfortable, and those wishing to smoke between courses, or stretch their legs are invited to the small outdoor patio, where the aperitifs are served just before dinner.

The menu which Fred and Paul concoct every week is a five course selection of surprises, leaving patrons, you guessed, “Fooly Satisfied.”

Some press members invited this week started their enchanted evening out with champagne cocktails flavored with Mango Caviar. Then the show took off with a Jamon de Pata Negra appetizer, pine nuts, and roasted, sliced corn-fed chicken over field-greens. It was matched with a nice Marges de Caceres Crianza. The Creamy Soup with leeks and Smoked Eel, paired with a Sherry shot. The meal progressed at a nice leisurely pace, allowing free flowing conversation in preparation for the Seabass and Shrimp with bell pepper sauce and Herb Risotto paired with 689 white wine, chased by a wonderful main course, Lamb Chop, shitake jus with generous cuts from the Fire Wall, washed down with Alamos Malbec.

The dessert, a light and delicious Poached Pear, was drizzled with Chocolate Grand Marnier Sauce and escorted by Fool’s Yogurt, paired with a small old vine Zinfandel.

2 Fools and a Bull offer the wine pairing with each menu, but individualists will find a fine selection of wines and other beverages to complement their dining experience, readily available at the world smaller bar, in the corner of the dining room.

The Fools Fantasy experience, including a welcome drink, coffee, and liquor comes to USD 80 per person. An additional Wine Flight is available by the Glass, or choose your own bottle from the suggested Wine Cellar for the evening!

Reservations can be made on line, and you are welcome to call for any potential last minute openings any evening till 4:30pm. PS. If the names Fred and Paul sound familiar, Fred was the Marandi chef for a number of years, his wife Hotske runs the Garra Rufa fish treatment at the spa at Manchebo, and Paul and his partner Miriam, created the now-defunct Tabasko, which we still talk about!!

Two Fools and a Bull Gourmet Studio
Reservations

The Westin Resort & Casino, Aruba Launches Inclusive-Light

2012-02-14T08:00:00.000-05:00

The Westin Resort & Casino, Aruba Launches the First-Ever Inclusive-Light Offering Along with a New All-Inclusive Option

Starting at $439 Per Couple/Per Night, Packages Developed in Response To the Budgetary Concerns of Today’s Upscale Leisure Travelers

Palm Beach, Aruba – February 10, 2012– In response to the cost-conscious, spending habits of today’s upscale leisure travelers, The Westin Resort & Casino, Aruba is now offering the first-ever inclusive-light resort option along with a new all-inclusive offering.

“More and more consumers are watching their budgets and want to know up front what their vacation will cost,” said Michele Frank, director of sales & marketing. Our inclusive resort plans provide this clarity and add value to the leisure experience without sacrificing quality and service.”

Eat, Drink & Be Happy, the inclusive-light offering, includes breakfast and lunch, giving guests the evenings to enjoy the island’s rich culinary scene. With nightly rates starting at $439* per room double occupancy, the package includes:

Accommodations, including all taxes and resort service fees
Daily breakfast in Bon Bini Restaurant
Daily lunch in The Terrace Restaurant
Premium alcoholic beverages including Absolut, Bacardi, Jack Daniels, Heineken, house wines and more plus non-alcoholic beverages
Non-motorized water sports including rafts, snorkel equipment and kayaks

Premium All-Inclusive, the resort’s new all-inclusive option, includes evening meals at Pago Pago, Baci, or Azull, all the components of Eat, Drink & Be Happy and a one-time $25 credit to towards dining at Blossoms. Nightly rates start at $599* per room, double occupancy.

For resort reservations and information, call (877) 782-0149 or visit www.westinaruba.com/all-inclusive. When booking Eat, Drink and Be Happy, please use rate plan MODAI; for Premium All-Inclusive, please use rate plan PREMAI12.

Located on seven and a half acres amidst the white sands of Palm Beach and encased by lush gardens and swaying palm trees, The Westin Resort & Casino, Aruba features 481 luxurious guest rooms and suites, eight restaurants and lounges, the world-class Palm Beach Casino, Aruba, a variety of activities, spa and nearby golf. Just seven miles from Queen Beatrix International Airport and five miles from downtown Oranjestad, the resort offers more than 20,000 square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor function space.

*Rates are based on availability and cannot be combined with any other offers. A minimum stay of three nights is required for both packages. Children may be added for a small fee. Both plans are available year round.

Green Globe Certification Recognizes Bucuti & Tara Beach Resorts

2012-02-13T08:00:00.001-05:00

Bucuti & Tara Beach Resorts Recognized by Green Globe Certification With Highest Achievement Award

EAGLE BEACH, Aruba – January 23, 2012 – Adding to their list of more than two dozen environmental awards and certifications, Bucuti & Tara Beach Resorts has been awarded the Highest Achievement Award as the top performing sustainable travel & tourism business in the Caribbean by Green Globe Certification . This recognition is the result of Bucuti earning the highest percentage of sustainability indicators under the Green Globe Standard for Travel & Tourism which includes criteria based on sustainable management, social economics, cultural heritage and environmental practices.

“We are honored by this recognition from Green Globe and will continue to find innovative ways of meeting and exceeding the criteria they’ve set forth,” commented Bucuti’s owner Ewald Biemans. “We recognize that our actions no matter how small or large have an impact on our environment and we’re always looking for ways to decrease that impact, whether it be through simply recycling or making significant investments in eco-technologies and systems.”

Since its inception at the United Nations Rio de Janeiro Earth Summit in 1992, the Green Globe Program has represented the best in environmental responsibility. For nearly twenty years Green Globe has provided a way for tourism organizations to not only measure their environmental impact, but develop and implement strategies to reduce them. Through Green Globe Certification tourism businesses are provided with training, education, certification and marketing services in 83 countries with assessments conducted by a global network of independent auditors who provide third party inspection and validation.

“We have carefully reviewed not only the level of achievement of each of the award winners, but also assessed the types of activities that our certified businesses have engaged in,” said Guido Bauer, CEO, Green Globe Certification. “In each case the business has moved beyond improving their environmental performance to engage with the local community to develop the quality of life within the destination and ensure that as commercial operations they are giving back to nurture social engagement.”

As a leader in the green movement in hospitality for the past 25 years, Bucuti has set the benchmark in sustainable tourism including being one of the first resorts in the Caribbean to be officially Green Globe certified and the first in the Americas and the Caribbean to be certified ISO 14001. The resort staff and guests strive to effectively reduce their environmental impact, through a number of environmental initiatives including:

The installation of solar panels used to heat water for guest rooms and the laundry
Utilizing recycled paper only and limiting the use of paper wherever possible including electronically disseminating marketing messages and guest information
Utilizing recycled construction materials, natural organic materials, farmed woods and in some cases recycled wood and plastics
Extensive use of insulation, glazing, reflective coating and double pane windows to reduce cooling needs
Installation of LED and CFL lighting and automatic light switches in all low-traffic areas
Eco-rooms and suites equipped with automatic air conditioner sensors, dehumidifiers, HEPA air purifiers and in some cases ozone generators to help eliminate allergens, mold and mildew.
Sourcing local suppliers and products such as locally grown foods and art made on Aruba in order to reduce carbon footprint.
Monthly beach clean ups with guests and employees in addition to sponsoring island-wide coastal and reef cleanups
Using biodegradable containers for beverages and food
Gifting each guest with a refillable water canteen to discourage the purchase of bottled water (plastic)
Serving as a field trip destination and example as a way of providing environmental education for associates, schools and the local university
Installation of water reducers and the recycling of shower, sink and laundry water used for irrigation
Exclusively utilizing organic cleaning materials to practice green cleaning

Whitney Houston Rest In Peace

2012-02-12T16:13:00.000-05:00

God's choir has another angel.

10 Budget Caribbean Islands

2012-02-10T08:00:00.001-05:00

Updated: 9/19/11 05:19 PM
It's no surprise that this Dutch - owned island is a popular destination for package holidays – sun - kissed and chockablock with sparkly casinos and pretty beaches, Aruba receives frequent direct flights from the U.S. and has a plethora of all-inclusive options. You’ll find great value on this budget Caribbean island in the form of spa resorts, private villas, and brand-name hotels like Marriott and the Hyatt Regency.

Great Value Hotel: Manchebo Beach Resort and Spa: This excellent-value beach boutique hotel is set on a pristine stretch of sand with a first-rate spa and rooms with fine Indonesian-style furniture, private patios or balconies, and flat-screen TVs. Rates from $169/night.

Manchebo Beach Resort and Spa

Sassy is on the look-out for friends and family

2012-02-08T11:28:00.000-05:00

We would like to introduce Sassy to you, one of the donkeys that are cared for by the Aruban Donkey Foundation. Not a spring chicken anymore, she is the great grandmother of donkey Sky. Sassy has a large family at the sanctuary and she recently bore twins. The volunteers did not know that Sassy was pregnant and even less that two donkey babies would be born. Unfortunately one of the two babies died at birth. The other one was called Surprise, but that donkey also died; after just eight days of living. Sassy received extra care during that period, but one would not notice that she is grieving for the loss of her twins. Actually, that is quite normal in the animal world. Sassy is sometimes likened to an Apaloosa horse, as she has a spotted coat.

This beautiful donkey has been provided with a chip, just like all the other donkeys. On the chip is information about the donkey and its medical history. The donkeys at the sanctuary have a lot of friends with whom they can play all day long. And they love living there: they are well-cared for, they are fed and watered and when they are sick the vet is called. Yes, they are expensive customers for the sanctuary.

The volunteers are trying to cover the various costs with all kinds of activities and the sale of great donkey memorabilia in the shop. Fortunately, there are also visitors who wish to adopt a donkey, who buy something at the donkey shop or who make a donation. Thus they help support us. Everyone is welcome to visit the sanctuary, which has opening hours from 9 am until 4 pm and in the weekend from 10 am until 3. Entry is free of charge and one can enjoy a soft drink, a cup of coffee or a refreshing ice cream.

The volunteers of the sanctuary are hoping that somebody will adopt this friendly, lovely donkey. Of course the donkey will keep on living at the sanctuary; you only need to pay AWG. 30,-- [16.76 USD] per month for the donkey’s keep. With this amount you help support the sanctuary as well as your own donkey. And you will receive a beautiful certificate and a super T-shirt and your name and photo will be posted on our website. So please call the sanctuary at 593-2933; you can also register via the website www.arubandonkey.org or donate money on bank account number 40.03.025 at the Aruba Bank! Just do it!

Aruba Driving Tour: South End of the Island

2012-02-07T08:00:00.000-05:00

From Oranjestad exploring the northern end of the island onto the Arikok National Park. From Oranjestad simply head south out following the main road 1A (southbound)/1B (northbound). The first major sight on the right hand side is going to be Queen Reina Beatrix International Airport. Not worth a stop I know, but at least you will know you are heading in the right direction.

Continue along this roadway heading south past the Balashi Brewery and Desalination Plant (WEB) in the distance.

Once you get to the southern end of the island you will see the oil refinery, you can wind your way down from the highway through downtown San Nicolas to Rogers Beach and Baby Beach. Baby beach is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike for swimming and snorkeling. Imo, Rodgers Beach, although closest to the refinery, is more picturesque. Just try to look south and not north to keep the Refinery out of eye sight. There is a bit of shade here, but no facilities, if you wanted to stop and take a swim. There are pay as go facilities at Baby Beach as well as a food truck and chaise and umbrellas rental.

I understand there is only so much time, so for a short version of this tour, skip Arikok National Park, by turning around at Baby Beach and retrace your route northward back towards Oranjestad.

To see Arikok National Park, from Baby Beach, continue the tour north towards Arikok. Make your way north towards the dirt path which will take you on a circuit around the southeastern coast of Aruba. You will see the Sailor's Memorial, huge red anchor, large enough it is hard to miss.

This is the windward side of the island and swimming on this side is extremely treacherous and discouraged due to the winds and currents. People have drowned and died at opening mouth to the ocean at Baby Beach, as well as Boca Grandi, Bachelors Beach, Boca Prins and Dos Playa.

Heading northward, on the west side of the path, the large flat building with guard towers, surrounded by barbed wire, is the prison, KIA, nice oceanview if your cell has windows.

The first small beach along this route is Bachelors Beach and the second expansive one is Boca Grandi.

Anywhere between this area and Boca Prins, there are regular sightings of wild donkeys as well as goats. Past here, off of the path, to the right, you will see paths towards the ocean. Depending on the type of vehicle you are in, and depending upon the rocks/coral, driving cautiously you can drive close to the coast for some great photos of the crashing waves (protect your camera from the spray) and in some spots, small beaches.

In the distance you will see the wind farm at Vader Piet. Continuing on this route you will encounter the gate for entry, for a fee, to Arikok National Park. Continuing along the coastline you will see a sign on the left for Guadirikiri Cave. The cave is open to the public with tours given by the National Park Service free of charge. We customarily tip the guide a few dollars for the tours. Be forewarned the cave tour is pretty extensive and you will be warned before entry that it you are afraid of bats, or have respiratory problems, you should not take the tour. The cave is VERY hot and EXTREMELY humid. I was glad I have seen it once and now do not have to go back.

Once you have entered the confines of the park, after passing the wind farm, you will continue on to Boca Prins. There is a small bar and restaurant here which is a good place for a pit stop and cold beverage. A quick left after the restaurant/bar and a short ride down the path will bring you to Fontein Cave. This cave is easier than Guadirikiri but does have bats as well.

Continue past the parking area to the west and there is a turn off to the right for the White Sand Dunes. To get to the next stop on this tour, from Boca Prins you need to follow the path inland a bit to get around the sand dunes and being part of the park, are protected. Continue following the path and once past the dunes, the path will wind back towards the east and the coast. This next sight is Dos Playa. If anything it is a great photo opportunity and one of my favorite natural treasures on the island. In order to get to the second beach one would need to hike across that portion of the park. I have never done it myself, but have always suggested this is the ultimate spot for a romance, a picnic and sunbathing au naturelle. Just remember to glob on the sunscreen! And no swimming, the water is too treacherous.

There is parking at both Boca Prins and Dos Playa. If you do not wish to walk over to the second beach at Dos Playa, walk out to the point over the rocks towards the ocean of the first beach and you will get a glimpse of the second beach of Dos Playa.

Looking closely on the way out of the park, there will be some good photo opportunities. On the right hand side of the road, we have always seen wild goats, roadside and on the hills, as well as a VERY picturesque Fofoti tree.

In order to get back to Oranjestad you can retrace your path from which you came, or head west following the path away from Dos Playa back through the interior of the park. You will ride quite a way to arrive back to civilization. Once out of the park, stay on road 7A/7B follow the signs for Santa Cruz and Oranjestad, heading westward towards Oranjestad and the resort areas beyond.

The Day after the Big Game, Team Can Recoup on One Happy Island

2012-02-06T14:48:00.001-05:00

NEW YORK, Feb. 5, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- They may not have won the biggest football game of the year, but New England players can still find something to smile about this week on one happy island. The Aruba Tourism Authority is offering them the chance to touch down and score some happiness with all-expense paid trips to the tropical island known for its cheerful vibe. While only the MVP of the winning club has the opportunity to jet off to another well-known destination, Aruba is making the offer to the entire New England squad.

"We want to acknowledge and celebrate the hard work, dedication and season-long success of the team, despite their loss," said Ronella Tjin Asjoe, CEO, Aruba Tourism Authority. "We believe there is no better place to recover after a loss than Aruba. After all, we are known as 'One Happy Island'."

Just a convenient flight from the East Coast, New England players who accept the offer can have their tired feet in the warm Aruban sand as early as Monday afternoon. With an idyllic setting and temperatures in the low 80s, Aruba is the perfect place to rest and recover.

For more information on travel to Aruba, please visit www.aruba.com.

About Aruba
Aruba, One happy island, is truly an extraordinary experience. Located only two-and-a-half hours by air from Miami and four hours from New York City, the island is ideally situated in the southern Caribbean and boasts year-round cooling trade winds and perfect weather with average annual temperatures of 82 Fahrenheit and less than 20 inches of rainfall per year. Aruba serves up 28 luxurious hotels/resorts, championship golf courses, sumptuous spas, vibrant casinos, extraordinary international and local cuisine, exclusive shops and boutiques, exciting land and water activities, art galleries and museums, world-famous festivals and events, clubs and cafes with live music and world class beaches. The backdrop of a cosmopolitan tropical destination with warm, hospitable people is the perfect place for first-time guests and loyal visitors. For more information, please call 1-800-TOARUBA,visit us online at www.aruba.com or find us on Facebook.

Aruba Airport Authority Reports Year-end 2011 Traffic Results

2012-02-04T08:00:00.002-05:00

Passenger traffic increase of 5.4%

January 20, 2012- ORANJESTAD – With the closing of 2011 AAA looks back on a year that ended satisfactory; the total number of revenue generating passengers (RGPs) increased with 5.4% compared to 2010 and the number of aircraft movements with a modest 0.9%. The latter number was positively influenced by the number of private aircraft that grew with 6.3%. The total number of RGPs was just short of 1 million. With that, it was AAAs best traffic year ever.

The various markets contributed as follows: North America +0.6%; Europe +3.6%; Antilles +17.5% and Latin America +18.5%. Within the Latin American market Venezuela (+20.1%), Panama City (+19.8%), Bogota (+11.4%) and Brasil (+37.3%) performed strongly. The Latin American market is now good for more than 18% (2010: 16%) of the total.

AAA invested some Afl.22 million in its facilities in 2011, one of the highest levels in recent years. The focus of these investments was in upgrading of the existing facilities, especially the arrivals areas and the maintenance and expansion of the airside. One of the most important projects is the capacity expansion of the general aviation area at the southside where Afl.12 million was committed (i.a. in apron space and aircraft hangars). In 2012-2014 another Afl. 24 million will be invested there to guarantee sufficient capacity to accommodate increasing demand.

2012 will see a total forecasted investment level of approximately of Afl.45 million. AAA finances all these investments from its operating cash flow and reserves.

As expectations for 2012 are modestly optimistic; the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) earlier predicted an increase in passenger traffic growth of approximately 3% globally (North America +2.5%; Europe +2.7% and Latin America +5.6%). Recently, however, IATA tempered its expectations by stating that a deepening Eurozone sovereign debt crisis would push many airlines, and not only the European, into severe losses. Such a development would surely have an impact on traffic around the globe, including the Americas, according to IATA.

“We look back at a positive year; a year that performed better than expected, actually” said Peter Steinmetz, Chief Executive Officer of AAA. “Expectations for 2012 however are overshadowed by the European economic crisis and the potential fall out on other regions. We have to be vigilant, alert and pro-active to protect Aruba’s volumes and relative market share. The diversification into Latin America, as initiated in 2011, seems one of the best strategies to mediate potential negative effects in other markets. In brief, it will be a challenging year.”

Re-shop rental cars and hotel bookings a week before your trip

2012-02-04T08:00:00.001-05:00

Link: Re-shop rental cars and hotel bookings a week before your trip

Top 25 Luxury Hotels in Caribbean

2012-02-03T08:00:00.000-05:00

20. Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort and Casino- Palm/Eagle Beach, Aruba

At The Westin Resort & Casino, Aruba Sicilian Chef Brings New Italian Dishes to Baci Ristorante's Menu

2012-02-02T08:00:00.000-05:00

January 24th, 2012- After briefly closing for a bit of redecorating, Baci Ristorante is now open with new dishes added to a menu ripe with the best of Italian flavors.

Baci’s authentic ingredient is Chef Sebastiano Pinzone Vecchio, hailing from Taormina, Sicily, who brings classic and contemporary Italian cooking to Aruba’s dining scene.

A divine way to start your meal at Baci is with Chef Sebastiano’s cheese raviolis in a rich marinara, topped with shrimp and sausage. Surf and turf lovers will enjoy an Italian version that includes filet mignon paired with shrimp in a creamy garlic sauce. More than a dozen pasta dishes are featured on the menu, with the seafood linguini and the wild mushroom cognac risotto proving to be big hits.

Of the many delectable desserts prepared fresh in the resort’s pastry kitchen, the deconstructed tiramisu is a whimsical, contemporary play on the classic Italian dessert.

Baci Ristorante is located on the main lobby level of the Westin. For more information and to make reservations, call 586-4466, ext. 62.

Café Baci brings the flavors of the Mediterranean to the Caribbean. Designed to evoke the authenticity of a roman trattoria, this bistro features sublime food along with an exhaustive wine list. Out-of-this-world risotto, thin crust pizza and gilled fish and meat abound on the menu. Mouthwatering desserts complete the experience.

Cuisine : Italian - Menu
Atmosphere : Vibrant
Setting : Resort Casual
Smoking Permitted : No
Hours : 5:30 PM - 11:30 PM Open nightly

Join Jolly Pirates in Protecting the Reefs of Aruba

2012-02-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

Jolly Pirates Aruba! Sail, Snorkel, Swim and Swing!

Aruba Flash Mob

2012-01-31T08:00:00.000-05:00

Top 25 B & Bs and Inns in Caribbean

2012-01-30T08:00:00.000-05:00

8. Club Arias B & B- Savaneta, Aruba

Why Cruise?

2012-01-28T08:00:00.001-05:00

Link: Why Cruise?

Hyatt Regency Aruba’s newly renovated ZoiA Spa

2012-01-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

Immerse yourself at Hyatt Regency Aruba’s newly renovated ZoiA Spa scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2012. ZoiA – the Papiamento word for balance and poise – is reflected in the spa’s all-natural treatments. Guests will feel their cares melt away with relaxing massages, refreshing facials and rejuvenating treatments as spa specialists exude Aruba’s “one happy island” mentality.

At ZoiA Spa, treatments are categorized into four important elements – sun, sand, sea and love – and then paired with a color of the Aruban flag: yellow, white, blue and red. Sun, which signifies energy, is represented by the color yellow and the treatments are geared towards brightening and revitalizing the skin. The second element, sand, is reflected by the color white as it evokes purity. Through the use of Aruba’s mineral-rich mud, these treatments are designed to detoxify and rid the skin of any impurities. The third spa element is the blue sea and its calming treatments aim to help guests feel completely relaxed just like the serenity felt when hearing gentle waves. The final element is love and represents the devotion of the friendly people of Aruba.

The new world-class spa offers a comprehensive resort experience with aloe being the core components of its wellness approach. Dina Veeris, a local herboligist, develops home-grown and hand-crafted indigenous treatments for ZoiA Spa, such as hand-pressed olive oil and aloe oil. These oils and herbs are a staple in all service offerings and experiences.

Click here to view the spa menu.

Reservations:
Advance reservations are suggested. For spa reservations please call 297-586-1234, or email cclemencia@hyatt.com. All prices are subject to change without prior notification.

Hours of Operations:
Spa: 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., daily Fitness Center: 6:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., daily

Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort & Casino
J.E. Irausquin Boulevard, #85
Palm Beach, Aruba, Dutch Caribbean
297-586-1234