Aruba, A Story Told...

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Aruba

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Introduction A Dutch-Caribbean island that’s more South America than St Lucia; Aruba is a destination of many a contrast and quirk. It’s a place that defies stereotype, and if you were to ask, ‘what makes Aruba, Aruba?’ it would be impossible to present you with just one answer. So how about four?

You see, within this book, you’re going to find four chapters, each inspired by what we call the ‘four pillars’ of Aruba’s identity - The Coastline. The Culture, The Flavours, and The Lifestyle. They’re chapters in which we’ll take an in-depth look at Aruba’s stunning allures, at its age-old story, and only once you’ve read them all, will you begin to understand what Aruba is all about. Only then will you begin to comprehend the uniqueness, the beauty and the neverending fascination that this wonderful speck of land, drifting on the edges of the Caribbean Sea, presents us with every single day.

Go on, turn the page, and begin the most beautiful lesson you’ve ever experienced…

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The Coastline Aruba’s coastlines perfectly illustrate the contrasts that abound on this island. The North Coast, a rugged wilderness of mesmerising power and beauty is incomparable to the East Coast, a world of white sand, calm glistening waters and unadulterated peace, and thus, no two days exploring the island are ever the same…

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A Rugged Wilderness Three ways to experience the best of Aruba’s North Coast SWIM IN THE

rock formation; this spectacular spot is

N ATUR A L P O O L

a favourite of locals and tourists alike.

Carefully hike down to the rocks and

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One of Aruba’s most loved natural

slip into the warm waters. Make sure

wonders is the natural pool. A calm

you’ve got your snorkelling gear at the

body of water that’s protected from

ready; for this pool is filled with an array

the powerful waves that wash over the

of fish that have made this unlikely spot

whole of the east coast by a unique

their home. One not to miss.

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C O A S T L I N E

RIDE ALONG THE SANDS

AN INTREPID JEEP TOUR

Riding along the North Coast isn’t for

The terrain along the North Coast is

the faint hearted. At times you’ll be

somewhat treacherous, and without

climbing what feels like near-vertical

a jeep you’re not getting anywhere

cliff sides and scrabbling sharp

fast. With a private driver to hand,

descents, but you can trust us when

embark on the bumpy journey that

we say that your horsey companion

will lead you through the mesmerising

knows exactly what they’re doing. Relax

Arikok National Park, along stunning,

the reigns, let your ride take charge

untouched coastline and up to

and absorb the dramatic beauty that

atmospheric historic ruins. Stop for

surrounds you. The best bit? Reaching

lunch overlooking the bright blue sea

the sands and feeling the wind in your

and marvel at a view so unlike what

hair as you let your horse pick up the

you’d expect from your traditional

speed alongside the crashing waves.

Caribbean hot spot.

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C O A S T L I N E

Quintessential Caribbean Beauty Three ways to experience the best of Aruba’s West Coast C H A R T E R A YAC H T No luxury beach holiday would be

the best snorkelling spots as you sip

complete without time spent on your

on rum punch beneath the sunshine.

very own boat, and since Aruba’s

When you’ve finished exploring the

waters are so warm and inviting, this

coral reefs beneath the surface, climb

is one of our favourite ways to gain

back on board and enjoy a gourmet

a different perspective of the island.

lunch and a few more rum punches. It’ll

Let your skipper guide you to some of

be enough to make you feel like royalty.

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C O A S T L I N E

TRY YO UR H A ND AT KITEBOARDING Aruba is a relatively flat island, so it boasts cooling trade winds year round. One benefit of these winds is the opportunity to experience kiteboarding, an invigorating and adventurous pursuit. Enjoy a private lesson and before you know it you’ll be skimming across the water at top speeds as the sun sets in beautiful blood red fashion behind you.

DIVE THE SHIPWRECKS Aruba lays claim to some of the world’s best wrecks and is known as the diving capital of the Caribbean.

Whether you’re a novice or seasoned underwater explorer, you’ll find dives to suit your ability. From planes and tugboats to cargo ships and historic military vessels, look on in awe as you descend and find yourself surrounded by the colours of parrotfish, damselfish and queen angelfish.

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“ We are tied to the ocean. And when we go back to the sea, whether it is to sail or to watch - we are going back from whence we came.

J O H N

F .

K E N N E D Y

The Culture Much of Aruba’s uniqueness can be attributed to its fascinating culture and heritage. Stay on the island and you’ll hear Dutch Papiamento being spoken, you’ll see landscapes more reminiscent of South America than the Caribbean, you’ll learn about a history stretching back thousands of years and thus you’ll get to know a place whose individuality knows no bounds.

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C U L T U R E

Uncover a History Three ways to immerse yourself in island history S P OT CO LO URFUL A RCHITEC TURE IN THE C A PITA L Down-town Oranjestad presents a

to a dose of history and culture as well

myriad of colourful and interesting

as boutiques selling all of your favourite

architecture, and wandering its streets

luxury brands and pretty souvenirs,

is always a pleasure. The perfect mix of

so be sure to leave plenty of time to

old and new; Oranjestad will treat you

explore its enticing delights.

TA KE A N A R T CL A SS Spend the morning at Terrafuse

Surrounded by cacti and other desert

Workshop, a not for profit artist’s

flora and fauna, you’ll be led by Marian

studio located in the ‘countryside’ of

and Ciro Abath, two local personalities

Aruba, where you can try your hand at

that’ll be able to tell you all you need

sculpting in a workshop brimming with

to know about the island and how it

unique art inspired by the island itself.

inspires their creativity every day.

MUSEUM MUSINGS For a real insight into Aruba’s ancient

humanity came to exist on the island.

roots, Oranjestad’s Archaeological

You’ll learn how it all began with the

Museum is your best bet. Situated in

pre-ceramic Amerindians and discover

a converted traditional house of the

exactly how this Caribbean island came

18th Century, the museum is filled with

to be Dutch. By the time you go home,

artefacts and displays that detail how

you’ll be a verified Aruba expert.

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I N T E R V I E W

An Afternoon with the Abaths Ciro and Marian Abath are married artists who were born and emigrated to Aruba respectively. Ciro is a visual artist, using ‘firetechniques’ which involve heat-shaping materials such as ceramics, glass and bronze and Marian describes herself as a glass artisan, focusing on the beauty of the material. In 2008 they jointly launched the Terrafuse Foundation, to promote the art of glass and ceramics on the Island of Aruba.

D OES THE HIS TORY OF THE IS L A ND INFLUE NCE WH AT YOU DO? Ciro: Yes, without doubt! Both archaeology and nature are very important in my work. Take the four-metre high bronze sculpture at Arubabank. The new bank was built close to an archaeological site, Tanki Flip, and the artwork is called ‘Ey cerca’, which translates from Papiamento as ‘nearby’ or ‘right there’. The Pre-Columbian inhabitants of Aruba were neighbours of the actual building.

Many symbols can be found in the work, such as the owl and the frog, which are symbols used in the pottery of this group of people. And the art piece itself symbolises a sharpened stone, used as a tool by the Pre-Columbian inhabitants.

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I N T E R V I E W

“ Aruba as a place is saturated with inspiration.

A ND WH AT A BO UT YO U, M A RIA N? Aruba is just full of inspiration for artworks. I’m a huge fan of the archaeology museum, which even has glass beads in its collection. And the necklaces made from shell beads at the museum are so impressive.

In those days they didn’t have the tools that we do, yet these pieces are incredibly accurate and detailed. And it’s not just me that’s influenced by the local history; as a foundation stimulating art, we frequently take our students – both locals and tourists – to this museum to be inspired.

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H O W D O E S A R U B A A S I T I S TO DAY I N S P I R E YO UR CRE ATIV IT Y ?

Aruba is where we live, the start of our work. The unbeatable light and the roughness of nature. Aruba as a place is saturated with inspiration. And it’s not just us; many artists visiting Aruba today have this experience.

WHY WOULD YOU ENCOUR AGE PEOPLE TO VISIT ARUBA? Well the archaeological museum for sure – the collection is so well presented, and the building is beautiful. But our favourite spot is the Northern Coast. Head to the Alto Vista Chapel and go down to the coast right there. Such beautiful bocas, plus incredible waves that make you feel small and humble. Oh – and don’t forget Terrafuse! Drop in for a visit or take a class – we’re open mornings on Mondays and Thursdays.

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I N T E R V I E W

WH AT ’ S THE B ES T THING ABOUT LIVING HERE? We love feeling close with nature, having our cats and dogs around us. The space – the actual space as well as the space Aruba creates internally. Oh, and the climate.

We don’t miss Autumn or Winter!

Each day we wake up, greet our animals, the sun and the wind, make some art, share that art, eat, drink beer, sleep – and start over. Heaven on earth.

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“ If you want to understand today, you have to search yesterday.

P E A R L

S .

B U C K

The Flavours Aruba is an island that will surprise you with the breadth of its culinary offering, and the foodie scene here is only going from strength to strength. From beach-side shack serving simple fresh fish and fried shrimp to haute cuisine served in the romantic gardens of a historic house – it would seem that Aruba really does have something for everyone.

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F L A V O U R S

Rustic Dining Our top three spots for no-frills food

ZEEROVERS

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Zeerovers has become somewhat of

deep fried shrimp deliciousness.

an institution in Aruba, so famed are

Served up in huge baskets, you’ll

the no-frills dishes it serves. Located

get an incredible selection of freshly

in a wooden structure set on stilts

fried seafood which you’ll gorge on

above the sea, this restaurant’s

as you look out to uninterrupted

specialty is get-your-hands-dirty,

views of the sparkling blue waters.

MOOMBA BEACH BAR Your classic beach bar, Moomba is a

chowder and seared tuna, and the

great place to head to just after you

atmosphere is addictively laid-back.

land. With table’s right out on the sand,

Some nights you’ll discover live music,

it won’t take a moment before you relax

whilst on others the only sound you’ll

into island life. The menu has lots of

hear is the soft lapping of the waves a

delicious offerings, including seafood

few meters from where you sit.

GO LOCAL Sometimes, the best recommendations come from the local’s themselves, and there are a few traditional delicacies you just have to try. Originating in Curacao, the pastechi is a favourite at breakfast time, and we know some great hidden spots (thanks to our contacts on the ground) where you’ll find these pastries fresh out of the oven. Try this and you’ll be starting your day the Aruba way.

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Haute Cuisine Our top three spots to treat yourself WHITE MODERN CUISINE This chic and contemporary restaurant, set in an impressive all-white dining area, is a wonderful example of how Aruba continues to move forward in the world of gourmet cuisine. Working on a farm-to-table mentality, the dishes you’ll enjoy here are fresh and creative, whilst the cocktails alone are reason enough to come.

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CARTE BLANCHE Carte Blanche offers one of the island’s most exclusive dining experiences within the tropical gardens of the Bucuti Beach Resort. Watch as your award-winning chef prepares an extensive tasting menu before your very eyes, and get ready for some intense and memorable flavours. The views of Eagle Beach will only add to this extra special evening.

PA PI A M E NTO When it comes to al fresco dining, nowhere does it quite like Papiamento.

Set within the tropical gardens of a historic house that’s been preserved for hundreds of years, you’ll be sitting amongst lush greenery illuminated by twinkling lights as you eat. It’s incredibly romantic, and the food served here lives up to the setting in which it’s served. Think sweet potato mash with cinnamon and sugar and the freshest surf ‘n turf around.

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“ One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.

V I R G I N I A

W O O L F

The Lifestyle It’s impossible not to fall in love with the Aruban lifestyle. The laid-back pace of life, friendly locals, warm and sunny climate and abundance of luxury experiences all have the power to transform your standard Caribbean holiday into a beloved memory you’ll treasure forever. It’s what we like to call the Aruba effect…

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Luxury Living Three ways to indulge S PA DA ZE Aruba is home to many an exclusive spa, so you’ll be able to take your pick of locations and treatments.

One of our favourite spots has to be Spa del Sol, where you can enjoy a massage in one of the beach cabanas that look straight out to sea. Alternatively, The Ritz Carlton’s spa (the biggest in the Caribbean) will astound you with an extensive treatment list of massages, skin and body treatments that use only organic and pure ingredients.

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L I F E S T Y L E

S TAY I N S T Y L E When it comes to luxury lodgings, Aruba has an impressive list of hotels for you to choose from. Each has its own distinct personality, and whether you’re looking for boutique vibes or old-school glamour, you’ll be able to find it here. From Renaissance to RitzCarlton, Bucuti to Manchebo, call us today and we’ll choose the hotel to suit all your wants and needs.

P R I VAT E D I N I N G Rent-a-Chef is a company that will arrange a gourmet chef to come and cook for you wherever you want (within reason of course). Whether you’re after a romantic meal in your apartment or a celebration on the beach, your chef will arrive with equipment and ingredients to hand to take care of the service and cooking. All you have to do is sit back and enjoy the gourmet cuisine that gets put in front of you. What could be better?

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I N T E R V I E W

Entertaining Ewald Biemans Ewald Biemans is something of a big name in Aruba. He’s the developer of the Bucuti Beach Resort and winner of countless awards, so is known by everyone in the hotel trade- but he also contributes environmentally to the island in a big way. We couldn’t resist having a chat with him about what makes his island home so very special...

S O , W H AT ’ S I T R E A L LY L I K E T O L I V E O N A R U B A P E R M A N E N T LY ?

It is like living the dream. The island is safe, clean and modern with all the amenities one would like- yet you are truly living in harmony with nature. I would describe Aruba as a slice of paradise that is unequalled.

T E L L U S A L I T T L E B I T A B O U T A R U B A’ S L U X U R Y LIFEST YLE SCENE .

We have resorts of every star category, with hundreds of fantastic restaurants and world class shopping. There are pristine beaches and nightlife to enjoy, yet a natural park comprises twenty percent of the island, where nature is completely protected. You’ve got world class diving, surfing and sailing to look forward to.

We have an ultra modern airport, safe food, and absolutely no rain! I mean it you’ve got guaranteed sunshine with a temperature of 85 degrees year-round, with lovely cooling trade winds.

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“ I would describe Aruba as a slice of paradise that is unequalled.

I N T E R V I E W

AND WHY IS YOUR HOTEL SO SPECIAL? It is an absolute oasis of peace and tranquillity, and hugely romantic- there is ample space and privacy, plus an adults only property. The resort was even voted ‘romantic resort of the world’ by TripAdvisor. Not forgetting our two top restaurants; as well as five star service, we offer organic and natural vegan and vegetarian menus in addition to world cuisine. People also love the personal aspect, as I am so involved in the business.

PEOPLE SEEM TO RETURN TO ARUBA TIME AND TIME AG A IN . WH Y D O YO U THINK TH AT IS? The guaranteed sunshine is definitely a plus! But I think they also like the reassurance of the safety personally and politically and in terms of food, drink and lack of hurricane risk. We also have top wreck diving, and hugely friendly people.

Ultimately, it’s a feeling of coming home.

F I N A L LY, C O U L D YO U D E S C R I B E YO U R P E R F E C T A R U B I A N DAY ?

I’d jog and stroll along the miles and miles of shoreline, followed by a wonderful breakfast. Replenished, I might go hiking in the national park, perhaps followed by a jeep ride along the rugged North coast. Lunch would have to be at one of the local fishermen’s landings, then probably the archaeological museum or Oranjestad…or thinking about it I might just hang out at the beach! You’ve got to make the most of it when you’ve got the top beaches in the world at your fingertips. Then I might sneak in a submarine ride or some wreck diving…and a deliciously sybaritic dinner at a top restaurant. An unbeatable day – in an unbeatable place.

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“ It is an absolute oasis of peace and tranquillity...

“ One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things.

H E N R Y

M I L L E R

The Ultimate Aruba Itinerary WHEN TO GO All year round HOW LONG YOU ’LL NEED 7 nights WH AT YO U ’ LL D O This itinerary will see you chartering your own yacht, dining at the best and most authentic restaurants, learning to windsurf and paddle-board, exploring the island by horse back and snorkel trip and staying in the most luxurious property (of course). Like the sound of what we’re offering? Enquire today.

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Images on pages 38-39, 41, 43 Copyright © 2014 Bucuti & Tara Beach Resorts - Aruba