ARUBA

Aruba is one of the four countries in the Kingdom of the Netherlands and also forms part of the Dutch Caribbean, the ABC (Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao) islands. Aruba is known as the “One Happy Island” and I was there to experience and explore why Aruba has lived up to its name and has become one of the Caribeean’s favorite destination.

The people of Aruba definitely stands out. They are super friendly and welcoming. After traveling approximately one hour from the Dominican Republic, we were greeted with a special treat of beautiful women garbed in cultural wear performing at the airport. Our next encounter was with our taxi cab driver who picked us up from the airport and literally sang an entire calypso song for us on our drive to the hotel. It helped that he had a great voice. But to break out in singing to random tourists quickly introduced us to the overall disposition of the people of Aruba. When our extremely nice hotel attendant checked us in, we had no choice but to take his word and signed up for an off road buggy tour and boy did it not disappoint. This tour perfectly checked off many times on my list on day 1.

California Lighthouse. - It was built between 1914-1916 and got its name from a British ship that sank in 1891.

Alta Vista Chapel - Built in 1750 by Caquieto Indians and reconstructed by the Spanish in 1852

Casibari Rock Formations - Huge boulders that are remnants of volcanic rocks with amazing views from the top.

Natural Pool - Located in Arikok National Park. With the collapse of the original bridge, nature has reconstructed a second bridge

Bushiribana Gold Mine -Build in 1824 after a 12 year old herder discovered gold that led to the Aruba Gold Rush which mined 3 million pounds of gold that were sent back to Holland

Rock Wish Garden - Located at the Gold Mine Ruins. Made by tourists for tourists.

Aruba’s sunshine definitely contributes to its happy factor with average year round temperatures from mid 70s to mid 80s with tradewinds sweeping from the Atlantic Ocean making it one of the sunniest and breeziest place in the Caribbean. This perfect weather is ideal for enjoying the breathtaking beaches with its turquoise waters.

While you are off enjoying its beaches and landscape, don’t forget Aruba’s capital, Oranjestad. Oranjestad is Aruba’s most populous region. I was particularly intrigued with its Dutch architecture and spent time just walking the streets clad with colorful buildings. I felt very safe in Aruba. There was very limited police presence. There is less than 1% crime and less than 3% unemployment. No wonder they are happy!

The Renaissance Marketplace is an open market place also located in Oranjestad where you can enjoy live music, international cuisines, the marina and shops creating a truly cultural experience. Directly across the street you can visit the Renaissance Mall where you can indulge and find all your favorite designer brands and fashion.

There’s no doubt that Aruba caters to tourists in every aspect including food. We dined at various restaurants and were not disappointed. Some good options included Fishes N More, Willem’s Dutch Pancakes, Daniel’s Steak & Chop, The Pelican Nest Seafood Grill and Pika’s Corner.

The verdict is in and Aruba is truly “One Happy Island”. Make sure you visit for and cast your own vote

TravelAnnetta AlexanderJune 2, 2024top3, aruba, dutchcaribbean, abcislands, caribbeandestinations, caribbeanvacation, blackblogger, blacktravel, onehappyisland, beautifuldestinationsComment