Bin boni from Aruba - One Happy Island
Aruba, officially known as the Country of Aruba, is a constituent country within the kingdom of the Netherlands, situated in the south of the Caribbean Sea. Aruba, captivated our hearts with its azure waters, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture during our recent visit during the Fall break. Join us as we take you on a journey through the sun-kissed landscapes and cultural wonders that make Aruba a true paradise on Earth.
Our Journey began with a delightful conversation in the early morning hours, our Uber driver proving a friendly companion on the way to the airport. After a long and early morning flight from New Jersey, punctuated by a connecting flight through Houston International, we finally touched down in Aruba at Queen Beatrix International airport in Oranjestad approximately 3:45 PM, local time coinciding with EST. The first glimpse from the airplane window didn't give us high hopes but we were glad it did not match with the real beauty in person. After a refreshing revitalization at the Eagle Resort, we ventured out to explore the famed Eagle Beach. Although the sun was setting, casting the beach in a soft, golden light, we couldn't fully appreciate the vibrant turquoise hues of the water. However, the gentle waves lapping at the shore and the cool sand beneath our feet were enough to fill us with a sense of calm and anticipation. Despite having just enjoyed a delicious brunch on the flight, the aroma of Aruban cuisine wafting from nearby restaurants awakened our appetites. Being vegetarians, our options were slightly limited. However, we were fortunate to discover Iguana Cantina Restaurant nestled amidst the charming "Little Switzerland" district of Aruba. As we settled onto the balcony, the sight before us was truly breathtaking. Lush palm trees swayed gently in the evening breeze, adorned with twinkling fairy lights that added a touch of magic to the atmosphere. To complete the picture-perfect scene, a mesmerizing fountain show unfolded right before our eyes, its cascading water illuminated by colorful lights. The culinary experience at Iguana Cantina was just as delightful as the setting. While the menu did not offer a vast selection of vegetarian options, we were still able to find dishes that tantalize your taste buds. The fresh flavors, vibrant colors, and creative presentation of each dish were a testament to the culinary expertise of the restaurant. Our evening at Iguana Cantina was a perfect blend of serenity, beauty, and delicious food. After a delicious and satisfying meal, we strolled through the charming streets of Little Switzerland. Palm trees swayed gracefully overhead, twinkling lights illuminated the night, and the gentle murmur of conversation created a warm and inviting atmosphere. Brand-name shops, along with Aruba aloe store every other block mingled with vendors showcasing unique Aruban souvenirs, created a vibrant and captivating scene. The air buzzed with energy, laughter, and the infectious spirit of Aruba. As we wandered, we soaked in the sights, sounds, and smells of this enchanting island paradise, our hearts brimming with joy and our spirits revitalized.
Day 2 in Aruba: ATV Adventures, beaches and Unforgettable Views from California beach house
Day two in Aruba dawned bright and exciting. Our adventure began with the thrill of renting ATVs, eager to explore the island's diverse landscapes. With a map in hand, we cruised along the winding roads, feeling the wind in our hair and the sun on our faces. But the journey wasn't confined to asphalt; we ventured off-road, tackling dusty paths and navigating rocky terrain, our adrenaline pumping with every bump and turn.
Our first stop was the iconic California Lighthouse, a landmark that has stood sentinel over Aruba's shores for over a century. At 98 feet tall, the lighthouse offered breathtaking panoramic views of the island. For just $5 per person, we were whisked up the 123 swirling steps, each step bringing us closer to the captivating vista. From the top, the entire island unfolded before us, a tapestry of lush green hills, glistening turquoise waters, and vibrant towns nestled against the coastline. It was a moment of pure awe, a chance to truly appreciate the beauty of this Caribbean paradise.
After capturing the breathtaking views from the lighthouse, our ATV journey continued to Aarashi Beach, a hidden gem known for its pristine white sand, crystal-clear waters, and tranquil atmosphere. As we parked our ATVs and walked towards the shore, the warm sand squished between our toes, and the gentle waves lapped against our ankles. The turquoise water shimmered under the bright sun, inviting us to take a dip in its refreshing depths. We spent the afternoon swimming, and soaking up the sun, surrounded by the tranquility of Aarashi Beach, we were also captivated by the presence of the fofoti trees, their branches gracefully twisting and turning as if sculpted by the wind. These iconic symbols of Aruba provided a picturesque canopy, dappling the sand with shade and creating a truly magical atmosphere. Beneath the shade of the fofoti trees, we relaxed on the pristine sand, letting the gentle waves lap against our feet and the Caribbean breeze caress our faces.
After a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters, our stomachs began to rumble. Resisting the temptation to linger, we continued our ATV tour, hunger pangs urging us onward. A quick stop at Domino's for a satisfying lunch refueled us for the exciting discoveries that lay ahead.
Our next destination was the Natural Bridge, a majestic rock formation carved by the relentless power of the ocean. Standing beneath this awe-inspiring structure, we marveled at the raw power of nature. Then, we ventured to the nearby Natural Pool, a hidden gem nestled amongst the rugged terrain. Lot of visitors were taking Plunge into the cool, refreshing water of this natural pool, which made them feel invigorated and rejuvenated.
Finally, we visited the ruins of the Bushiribana Gold Mill, remnants of a once-thriving gold mining operation. Exploring the historic site, we imagined the bustling activity of the past, the miners toiling under the harsh sun in search of treasure. Our ATV adventure continued through the diverse landscapes of Noord and San Nicolas. We passed quaint villages, vibrant street art, and the unexpected sight of an ostrich farm. We had a glimpse of Aruba museum and Chapel from outside and decided to skip the friendly donkeys at the sanctuary while we headed on the way to Baby Beach.
As the sun began its descent, we finally reached Baby Beach, a sheltered cove renowned for its calm waters and vibrant marine life. We waded through the shallows, soaking in the serenity of this hidden gem before returning our trusty ATVs, hearts full of adventure and memories.
The combination of adrenaline-pumping ATV riding, breathtaking views from the California Lighthouse, and the serenity of Aarashi and Baby Beach made our second day in Aruba an unforgettable experience. It was a day filled with adventure, discovery, and moments of pure joy, leaving us with memories that will last a lifetime.
