What is it about Caribbean islands that make them so inviting? For me, it is the insanely clear water, relaxed atmosphere, and wonderful people. And after the hectic pace and multiple itinerary changes for the previous two weeks in South America (see posts beginning HERE), the time had arrived to do a lot of nothing.
Morning view from the room
The island of Aruba is a curious mix of people from literally everywhere. From our driver at the airport (a native), to the incredible server at dinner (Philippines), to the nail technician (Venezuela) whose boyfriend is from Singapore, their commonality is obviously living in this island nation.
While waiting for our luggage, I looked at the flights that had landed and was a bit surprised to see several KLM flights. Then I remembered that Aruba is a “constituent island country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.” That explains not only the flights but other people with that particular heritage.
We asked our airport driver about the weather. It is basically the same all year with little rain. That was a relief! We flew from our last stop in Asuncion, Paraguay (with a brief plane change in Bogota) on Avianca Airlines. I was on their app on the plane where you can see the destinations they fly to and you can actually see the current weather in each. Quite handy!
Except when I clicked on Aruba and it reported our days here were to be in the 60’s with rain. What?? Once I had a chance to access regular wi-fi on land it was a great relief to see the actual report of 80’s with no rain in sight. The driver did caution us to not underestimate the powerful sun and to lather up, even in the shade. The hotel has lots of stations by the pool dispensing 30spf and 50spf, and even one that is “reef friendly” here so the lotion won’t harm anything if worn in the ocean.
I opted for the Ritz Carlton on “Palm Beach” — a stretch significantly less crowded than many other areas. Another Marriott Bonvoy property opened a few months ago — their top-of-the-line St. Regis — even more secluded — in case you’re interested. But clearly there are hotel and rentals at every level.
Beach walk to the right of the hotel above, then to the left — obviously more populated
Dinner at the hotel restaurant Casa Nonna was our first stop as typically I like to lay a bit low on the arrival day. Every single person was absolutely lovely and the food authentic and delicious. In fact, this most hospitable hotel has staff to meet one’s every need. And I love how they greet guests: “Welcome home.”
Below, many of these green (and other color) iguanas are poolside. This one obviously wants to remain incognito.
Another distinction for us? Aruba newbies. This island appears to be one of the more popular. In town, it felt like Las Vegas on a floating island, but a bit smaller in scale. That means big groups, multi-generational family outings, along with some couples like the hubby and me.
The hubby with new friends Sean & Taylor on their “babymoon”
Vacation mode and loving it.
The master mixologist came up with my concoction below (delicious), but how do folks drink in the sun?? One and done for me …
We were warned on departure day to get to the airport EARLY. The Queen Beatrix International Airport is very busy and of course under construction. The biggest reason? Folks traveling back to the US must clear customs twice, once for Aruba and a second time for the U.S. In fact, the terminals are designated “U.S. Departures” and “Non U.S. Departures.” Interestingly, that alleviates clearing customs when landing back at one’s “first port of entry.” So if that’s Miami or Boston or New York, that part of re-entry is done. It didn’t affect us as much as we were in the “Non-US Departures” terminal.
As was the case with our arrival driver, our departure driver was a fountain of information. We drove through the main shopping area which shops cater to the cruise ship crowds coming through. Tempting, but are there truly any “deals” to be had??
High marks for the resort’s poolside treats which were regularly passed out to guests
Aruba is home to approximately 150,000 residents. By the 5th grade, students have been taught four languages: Spanish, English, Dutch and Portuguese. Of the inhabitants, 75% work in hospitality with the rest in construction or professional services.
And with those Aruba fun facts, I leave you for now. Next stop: Anguilla (after a brief stop in Curacao and arrival in St. Maarten).
