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Learn how you can become part of this luxury condominium residence...
- 24/7 Security - Full Concierge Service - Good ROI with Rental Program, Etc...
Eagle Beach to be enriched with an Oasis
Office Hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 4pm / Sat: 9am - 12pm Tel: (297) 587.1621 / (297) 733.1261 - info@oasisaruba.com
Hyatt Occidental Radisson RIU Palace Westin
Palm Beach
Amsterdam Manor La Cabana Chalet Suisse
Oasis Costa Linda Bucuti Beach Resort Manchebo Beach Resort
H Sasakiweg
EAGLE BEACH - Oasis Luxury Condominiums is a Mediterranean-style designed complex located on the prestigious Eagle Beach right next to Chalet Suisse consisting of a total of 35 units distributed on five (5) floors. The one, two and three bedroom suites have a perfect view of the ocean and beach. The units include, among other amenities, floor to ceiling glass doors and panoramic windows, spacious terraces, marble bathrooms, European kitchens with granite counter tops and a full stainless steel appliance package including washer and dryer. This 35-condominium complex will feature a beautiful swimming pool with a beach style entry with waterfalls and fountain and state of the art fiber optic lighting. The entrance of the building has a drive-up covered entrance and an elegant two-story lobby leading to the sun-filled hallways and corridors. The common area will facilitate the owners with a well-equipped gym overlooking the gardens and the pool. The garden will feel like an oasis true to the projects name. There will also be a recreation room and sofas throughout the common area to lounge and relax. Further amenities include a 24/7 security, a full concierge and a rental program for the owners who want to earn a return on their investment. The concierge service will be helpful to assist the owners in making their ‘homecoming’ a very pleasant return. Each condo will have one designated parking space exclusive to the owners. Construction on Oasis at Eagle Beach is moving fast. Fifteen of the thirty five units have already been sold. The condominiums will be ready for occupancy by March 2010. Oasis is located on Eagle Beach which allows for an easy access, even on foot, to the best casinos, restaurants, golf courses, shopping areas and night life the Aruba has to offer. The experienced sales team of Oasis invites you for a visit to learn about this new gem on the beach. The site tour will take you up in the complex where you will enjoy spectacular views of the ocean and beach as well as a wonderful view of Oranjestad where the cruise ships are docked. The views from the rooftop terrace are stunning to say the least. The Oasis sales team is ready to assists you. Office hours are from Monday thru Friday from 10AM till 4PM and Saturday from 9AM till 12PM. You can also call for an appointment on telephone numbers 587.1621 or 733.1261 or by email at info@oasisaruba.com.
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EDITORIAL Here we are in de month of September, House Complete edition 6. In this edition you’ll find information about Feng Shui in the bedroom, creating your own Asian spa retreat in the bathroom, growing an organic garden, ideas for decorating with photographs and some examples for a funky kid’s room. House Complete is honored to have a look into the home of Fred Abspoel and the kitchen of Jan Falconi. And naturally House Complete features Aruba with articles about the birds of Aruba, Arikok National Park and old pictures of the Harbor in Oranjestad. We hope you will have fun again reading this issue of House Complete. For any comments, ideas, criticisms and any other type of feedback, please drop us a line at info@crossmedianv.com.
CONTENT THIS EDITION 4-5 ---------6-7 ---------8-9 ---------10-11 ------12-13 ------14-15 ------16-17 ------18-19 ------20-21 ------22-23 ------24-25 ------26-----------28-29 ------30-32 -------
Fred Absopel Feng Shui Bedroom Arikok National Park Asian Spa Home Staging Organic Garden Old Pictures of Aruba Birds of Aruba Tropical Living Room Gadgets Picture Decor Kid’s Bedroom Jan’s Kitchen 10 Most Beautiful Islands
Cross Media NV René van Norel and Alma de Vries.
OUR TEAM PUBLISHER: Cross Media NV
DIRECTORS: René van Norel Marcel van Schie
PHOTOGRAPHER: Rosalie Klein Jairo Everon
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Alma de Vries
Rosalie Klein Alma de Vries Minjanou Ponson Heleen Bongers
GRAPHIC DESIGN:
PROOF READING:
Twenty Eleven Design Studio
HOUSE COMPLETE Email: info@house-complete.com www.house-complete.com
For advertising information and rates: contact Cross Media NV via email or call 588-6988/563-6468
Aoife Cahill
Paper Art
Artist Jen Stark from Miami creates amazing sculptures using construction paper. Not only is it beautifully executed but her use of color and proportion is extraordinary. The most impressive is the way she makes two-dimensional papers into three-dimensional sculptures. These “paper sculptures” are beautiful pieces of art that can hang on any wall and will make a home more interesting.
www.casnan.com
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Calbas Plaza Residences 15
2 Bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, family room, storage, apartment.
AFL. 395.000 1ST Option Real Estate N.V. Tel.: 734-4550
www.1optionrealestate.com
Paradera Park 219
THE BIGGEST
Real Estate Portal SOMBRE
Spacious 3 bedroom house with possibility for a studio, in quiet neighborhood. Direct available. For sale or for rent.
$ 1.570 per month $ 282.860 k.k.
Opal 58
Spacious 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms house located close to Aruba's National Park and other tourist attractions, in a very quiet neighborhood. The house a living and dining area, kitchen, a 23 m2 front porch, covered back patio with toilet, laundry and working space. The property is completely fenced and the yard is fully bomanited. There is a two (2) vehicles garage with automatic doors. Enjoy the breeze in the porch and back patio close to Aruba's finest natural areas.
$ 336.723
ERA Solito Real Estate P.O.Box 183 Concessielaan 8 Tel.: (297) 583-7400
Fast Rent House Aruba NV Sabana Liber 265, Noord Tel: 587 - 1971 Fax: 587 - 3460
www.renthousearuba.com
Totolica
www.erasolito.com
$ 109.000 KMB Realty Group N.V. Caya G.F. Betico Croes 153, Suite 6, Oranjestad, Aruba E: contact@kmbaruba.com T: 583-3553 C: 592-5472
$ 1.200.000 Advantage Realty
Paseo Herencia Mall Tel. (297) 586 4900 / Fax. (297) 739 9191
www.remax-arubarealestate.com
Sabana Liber
Caya Luna 36
To ensure quality and trust amongst the residents of Totolica Family Residences, the developer MVM has chosen to work with the best materials andprofessionals for this community. Moreover, each residence is delivered with a complete kitchen, bathroom and landscaped garden. Please come by and have a look at our finished model home! You will be amazed!
This property has a gorgeous view when on the 2nd open floor. Close to the Tiera Del Sol golf course....with a large pool, very spacious and close to the Beach! 3 Bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms.
Traditional style Cunucu house with landscaped and fenced-in garden, with pool, covered porch. Built on 764m2 of property land. Located at Caya Luna -Tarabana Residence, just 5 minutes from the ocean and Oranjestad. 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.
House for Sale, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms.
House for sale AFL. 132.300 $ 280.337 - AFL 499.000 CENTURY 21 Best & Solid Real Estate Palm Beach 4-G, Aruba Tel. (+297) 586 42 42
www.arubahouses.com
House with land AFL. 205.000 Solito 100, Aruba Dutch Caribbean Phone: 582-8080
www.betterhomesaruba.com
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The home of Fred Abspoel (62) is not just a house: it is his life’s story in a nutshell. Although located on one of Aruba’s most spectacular and most beautiful sites, it is not a showplace. On the contrary, it is a lived-in place, where the couches are covered with fading material and where the kitchen is amazingly old-fashioned. The overall impression, however, is just awesome. Fred’s artistic eye and his unerring sense of personal, unique style have made his house into an Old World wonderland, filled with antiques and curiosa, but never overcrowded or overpowering. Peaceful and elegant, this bachelor’s home is a world away from the hustle and bustle of ordinary life. Breathe in the salty air and relax, seems to be the message that Savaneta 344 conveys.
www.arubahouses.com for our complete listings
Fred Abspoel tells his life story, seated on one of the couches. It is filled with coincidences and strange happenings, which have shaped its course. The fact that Fred became friends with an Aruban student in Leiden, Holland, was the start; falling in love with his friend’s beautiful sister and moving to Aruba was the followup. Fourteen years of marriage and two children later Fred found himself in this ocean-view house in Savaneta, which he designed and built himself, optimally using his background as a draughtsman and his connections and knowledge of materials. The floors are Indonesian hardwood, the ceilings wood from Venezuela. The stunning decorations are either from Indonesia or gathered on his many trips to Colombia and South America.
www.arubahouses.com for our complete listings
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Small changes make a
Feng Shui, the ancient Eastern concept of channeling energy, is intriguing. There are things we cannot see, only feel, and blocked streams of energy might be the reason for troubled sleep, difficulties in relationships and vague feelings of unease. Your home is the most important place in your life; through making small changes you might experience improved well-being. Feng Shui advice: if everything is fine, leave it as it is. If there is room for improvement, try implementing a few suggestions.
House Complete tackles the bedroom: a haven where stress should not have a place. A bedroom should be like a temple, where relaxation and rejuvenation play key roles. Stimulating colors and distractions should be banned here, and key words are restful, joyful and peaceful. A small bedroom is perfect, yet comfort is important. No clutter, not even beneath your bed, no electrical appliances; just earth colors, soft colors, sunlight, plants and wood. The difference between your busy day and restful night should be major here: heave a sigh, leave the world behind, this is a place of well-being.
9 Symmetry, created by just a few pieces of furniture is perfect for a bedroom. Your clothes, a reminder of your stressful day filled with energy, should be put away in a closed wardrobe or in a separate room. The position of a mirror is of major importance: not in line with a window or a door, as happiness flows out that way. Take note that a mirror in a bedroom should be full-length. Is your mirror positioned across from a door, hang a curtain in front of it so that it is screened off. Metal beds are off-limits, sheets should be made of natural materials and mattresses should be tossed out after six or seven years. And if you start a new relationship, throw out your old mattress and buy a new one for a fresh start. Very important!
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Arikok National Park Center
The visitor center of Arikok National Park is located near the main entrance at San Fuego. In this central area you can also find Cunucu Arikok and Hofi Shon Shoco.
Visitor Complex Visitor Complex
t Indian Pain
Kid’s Tour
The visitor complex of Arikok National Park is an information center. By means of information panels one gets an idea of what Aruba’s nature has to offer and for more in-depth information there are rangers to assist visitors with any information they would need. In the auditorium visitors can watch a video of Arikok National Park, and souvenirs may be bought at the Arikok Logo Shop. In here merchandise with the Arikok National Park logo is sold.
Hungry or thirsty visitors can get a bite to eat or buy a drink at the Coffee House Arikok. The cafeteria features local dishes. There is a terrace to enjoy Arikok Park’s beautiful scenery.
Cunucu (plantation) Arikok
In the old days plantation Arikok was used by farmers, not only in colonial times but also when the Indians roamed the island. Nowadays visitors can still see the reminders of those ancient times: there are Indian drawings in caves and on rock boulders. The logo of Arikok National Park has derived from one of those drawings. Furthermore there is an old adobe house where a farmer used to live: it was still in use in the early nineteen thirties. In this area there is a large boulder that resembles a turtle, thus park rangers call this boulder Turtle Rock.
Hofi Shon Shoco (Mr. Owl garden)
Near the visitors’ complex is a garden called Hofi Shon Shoco. Its purpose is to teach visitors about Aruba’s flora, fauna and culture. Name tags identify plants in the garden and a small adobe house can be visited. The park is planning to construct a snake pit in the garden where local snakes like the rattlesnake and cat eyed snake can be viewed. Because of its educational purpose the garden has wisely been named Mr. Owl (Shon Shoco).
“If you haven’t seen the park you haven’t seen Aruba.” Arikok National Park San Fuego 70 Santa Cruz Aruba Phone 5851234 FAX 5851235 info@arubanationalpark.org www.arubanationalpark.org Opening hours Arikok National Park: Mon-Sun from 07:00 hr to 18:00 hr Opening Hours Shops: Mon-Sun from 09:00 hr to 17:00 hr
Tecu Adobe House
Text: Jimmy Mijer Photography: Diego Marquez
Condos for sale Visit our Model Home. Ph. 734-4550 www.1optionrealestate.com
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Phase
Unit
Bed/Bath
Price (US$)
I
112
2/2
485K
I
313
2/2
620K
I
512
2/2
745K
I
211
3/3
780K
I
223
3/4
780K
II
147
3/3
662K
II
361
2/2
350K
II
362
1/1
300K
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Create your own
Asian Spa retreat
Your next vacation in one of these private villas?
Prices starting at $ 500,- per week Private swimming pool From 1 bedrm. apartments to 4 bedrm. villas Visit our website www.renthousearuba.com or call for more information.
Fast Rent House Aruba NV Aruba Sabana Liber 265, NoordCall: +297 5871971 Fax: +297 5873460
Advantage Realty
Desiree Johnson
Broker/Owner RE/MAX- Advantage Realty
(297) 586 4900 (297) 739 9191 Paseo Herencia Mall
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Organic gardening How to set up your own organic veggie garden Organic gardening is becoming increasingly more popular among people of all ages, from schoolchildren who are learning this as part of their school curriculum, to people who are retired and have some extra time on their hands. Mrs. Obama, wife of the President of the United States, has her own patch of organically grown vegetables at the White House, which she regularly shares with visiting schoolchildren to educate them about the importance of eating a healthy diet.
Benefits organic gardening
Organically grown vegetables are healthier and tastier than those cultivated the conventional way. It is more economical to grow your veggies in an organic way than when you use chemicals to solve your soil, weed, pests and plant disease problems. Another great benefit of growing your own veggie garden is that it can be a great learning experience for your children. They will get to witness the moment you sow these tiny seeds all the way to the time when you harvest them when they have become fully grown vegetables that you will be able to use to create meals that are healthy and delightful for the whole family‌
Next some tips on how to set up your own organic veggie garden Do some studying
If this is going to be your very first organic vegetable garden, it is important to spend enough time researching this subject. You may find some good books at your favorite bookstore or our pub-
17 lic library; there are also a lot of great websites covering the topic of organic gardening, where you will be able to find the information you need to get started. Inform yourself on the type of vegetables you would like to grow; how to sow your seeds; how to take care of your seedlings until they are ready to be transferred to your veggie garden; the type of soil you should use for your veggie garden; how to make your own organic compost; how to fight diseases and pests in a natural way and how to solve soil and weed problems, without the use of chemicals. the use of chemicals.
Raise some beds
Aruba’s soil tends to be rocky and very dry and to achieve the desired results in your organic vegetable garden, you will need some good organic soil. Organic means: using or grown with fertilizers consisting only of natural animal or vegetable matter. The use of raised beds could help you solve your soil problem. You can construct your raised bed from different materials, like wood or natural stones, which you can then fill up with good soil mixed with organic fertilizers. The use of a thick layer of newspapers or a layer of cardboard at the bottom of your raised bed will help you limit weed problems as well. And when you have house pets, they will not be able to walk all over your beautiful vegetables.
Start some seeds
You can buy your seeds at your favorite garden center or you can also purchase them on-line. It is best when you start your seeds in wood flats, fiber trays, plastic trays or individual pots. Place them on a spot where there is not too much wind or sunshine. As soon as seedlings have developed (you can see at least one set of true leaves), they should be transplanted to individual pots and when they are big enough, they should be planted on their assigned spot in your veggie garden, where they will be able to grow some weeks later into some of the most delicious veggies you have ever tasted‌
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Old pictures of Aruba The main port of Aruba is in Oranjestad, on the ‘Paardenbaai’, the Bay of Horses. The shallow waters of this bay used to accommodate horse traders who unloaded their cargo there; this trade contributed to the establishing of the capital of Aruba. Oranjestad’s first name was Playa, but later on it was officially baptized as Oranjestad, “Orange Ville”, after the House of Orange, the Dutch royal family name.
Banana boat on Waaf di Rey, with Police Headquarters (The present Renaissance Resort), late 40’s.
One of the oldest pictures (1932) of the Oranjestad waterfront, with a sandy slope as a quay side. To the right is the Willem III Tower, also present Zoutmanstraat and Havenstraat.
Fishermen at work, 1962
At the beginning of the past century the shore line in Oranjestad was quite a bit more inland, as the picture from 1932 shows. As the sandy slope and shallow waters filled up in the course of time, the quays and jetties as we know them nowadays were constructed. The main landing was called Waaf di Rey or King’s Jetty, meaning Government’s Jetty, just across the Harbor Master’s Office, now the Office of the Minister of Tourism, next to the Renaissance Resort. For years it was the site of one of the island’s tourism landmarks: floating restaurant Bali.
Oranjestad schooner harbor, early 1950’s
Aerial of harbor, late 40’s
Bali floating restaurant 1970’s
Renaissance Marina, 21st century Commercial port, 1960
New commercial harbor, early 50’s
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Oranjestad Harbor The Oranjestad harbor is divided in two different parts, the most picturesque being the schooner harbor on the Boulevard. Fruit boats came in daily from Venezuela to sell fresh fruit and vegetables. There used to be a special fruit market, but nowadays souvenir booths sell their wares. The fruit boats now moor at the Barcadera harbor; the schooner harbor has been replaced by the Marina, where sailing and luxury yachts moor.
Mending nets at schooner landing, 1955
Waterside fruit market, 1959
The banana Boats that traded between Aruba and Venezuela
Fruit boats at Waaf di Rey, late 40’s
The other part of the harbor is the commercial port for cargo vessels and cruise ships. Construction of these facilities started in the late ‘40s when the inland ‘saliña’ between the Public Works Office and the Eagle Refinery area was filled with white sand.
Birds of Aruba
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Burrowing Owl.
Aruba may be petite, but did you know that you may find around 236 different bird species, both on this island and the islands of Bonaire and Curacao? Many of these birds make a short pit stop on the ABC-islands during their trek from the colder regions of North-America to the warmer regions, south of the equator, to spend their winter season.
A selection of birds you may spot on our island: Thick-billed Plover. In Dutch they are called “Dikbekplevier” and they go by the name “Lopi” in Papiamento. They have big black eyes and they love to eat small crabs, insects and snails. They can grow up to 19 cm in height and you will find them foraging close to sandy beaches, coral reef areas, and muddy pools where mangrove plants grow.
Brown Pelican The largest bird you will find around the island; they can grow up to 135 cm in height. They can be spotted throughout the year, especially at the beaches around Aruba’s lighthouse and some of the low-rise hotels. The “Pelikaan” (Dutch), is a coastal bird with a long bill that can contain a lot of fish and which can grow up to 32 cm. You may see them diving from incredible heights, hunting for fish or you may spot them working as a team while they are enclosing a whole school of them, which they then share among themselves.
Burrowing Owl
Bananaquit.
A subgroup of owls you will find in North-, Central- and South America. The ones you will find on this island go by the scientific name “Athene cunicularia arubensis”; and are called “Shoco” by our native people. These unique birds are currently on Aruba’s list of endangered species and can be seen on Aruba’s postal stamps and some of its currency. They have curious, bright yellow eyes; they can grow up to 20 cm in height and they
Brown Pelican.
21 are known to dig holes up to 4 meters with their legs. They tend to be very protective of their territory and when they are hunting for food at night, you may hear their distinctive sound.
Places you may find these unique birds are: “Arashi” (beach located at the northwest part of Aruba - near the Light house), “Saliña” (across the Marriot Resort), “Bubali Bird sanctuary” (across the Dutch Windmill), “Spanish Lagoon”, Aruba’s National Park (east side of the island), “Colorado Point” and “Baby Beach” (southern part of the island). The best time to view these birds is early in the morning and late in the afternoon. Don’t forget to take your binoculars with you…
Bananaquit These little birds can grow up to 12 cm in height and are called “Barica Geel”, which means ‘yellow belly’ in Papiamento and “Suikerdiefje” in Dutch, which means ‘sugar thief’, because of their love for sugar. You may spot these colorful creatures just about everywhere, but especially around open-air restaurants and hotel lunch areas, where they are fed their favorite snack. If you want to attract these little visitors to the balcony of your hotel room, or your own backyard, just put out a shallow dish with some sugar, juice or leftover fruit, and you will be able to enjoy their company for many days to come.
Troupial.
and they have light yellow eyes. Don’t be surprised to find one of these stunning birds visiting you one day in your backyard; they like to snack on sugar and they may sing you a beautiful melody as a “Thank you” for your treat.
Troupial Counted among the prettiest birds on the island, this black-and-orange feathered bird is definitely a sight to see. They are called “Trupial” in Papiamento and “Oranje Troepiaal” in Dutch; they can grow up to 28 cm in height
®
Ownership lots - Turn key - European finishings - 3 bedrooms - Landscaped gardens - Fenced property - Construction already started - 1 mile from high and low-rise hotels
Starting at $ 109,000
For more information: KMB Realty Group N.V., T. (+297) 587-3553, M. (+297) 592-5472, E. saskia@kmbaruba.com, W. www.arubatotolica.com
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Tropical Caribbean Chic
Did you recently purchase a piece of property in the Caribbean? And are you now in the process of transforming it into your own Caribbean dream retreat? Have you already decided which kind of interior decorating style you are going to have in your living room? If not, we may be able to help you on your way. .
Bring the tropics into your Vibrant colors home When choosing the colors for your walls, try There are many different interior decorating styles you can choose from nowadays; all you need to do is open a interior decorating magazine featuring the latest trends. You can also tune into one of the many home make-over programs on television to realize that the options are just about endless. Do you wish to give your home a Balinese look, an Italian Renaissance look, a classic English look, a Mediterranean look, a modern minimalistic look? Or have you considered bringing the tropics into your living room? If so, here are some tips to help you achieve this.
to use the colors you see while exploring our tropical island. You will come across the papaya with its vibrant orange color and the pineapple with its lively yellow color. While taking a walk on the beach, you will encounter beautiful natural colors, which you can use as a source of inspiration. You can paint your walls the color white of our pristine sandy beaches, the tan color of the seashells you may find, or the various shades of blue of the wide open sea. But make sure there is always a balance between the vibrant colors and the subdued colors you have chosen for the color scheme of your living room.
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Exotic furniture When shopping around for new furniture you may use a combination of different textures, such as wicker, bamboo, rattan or teak wood. Make sure to select your furniture based on beauty as well as functionality. If you have a lot of open spaces in your living room, try a bigger sofa and matching chairs. You can use any combination of furniture styles, e.g. antique, vintage or modern, as long as they fit into your overall design plan for your living room. Make sure to get some nice decorative cushions with distinct patterns that match the colors you have used on your walls. When making the final decision concerning your furniture, try to involve the rest of your family in this project; they will surely appreciate this, since they will also be using it for many years to come.
tropical plants to your dĂŠcor as well, such as palm trees, banana trees, or a hibiscus tree; with these you create the right atmosphere in your room and they keep the air in your room fresh and clean. Finish this room with distinctive accessories such as large vintage glass vases, unusual wooden sculptures or colorful Caribbean paintings that you collected while visiting neighboring tropical islands. Celebrate the completion of this project with your family with an ice cold PiĂąa Colada.
Breezy atmosphere When you are thinking about Aruba, you automatically think about the cooling breeze that messes up your hair. Try to recreate this easy-breezy atmosphere in your own home by installing large, wooden ceiling fans for an authentic tropical look. When choosing the textiles for your window coverings, rugs and pillows, opt for light, natural materials, such as organic cotton, linen and rough silk. These will not only look terrific, they will feel great to the touch as well. Make sure to add several large,
Cheers!
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Glow Brick: This interesting bit of pop art uses photolu-
minescence and acrylic molding to create an attractive modernistic piece that recharges from sunlight during the day and provides a warm glow through the night. An energy saving and fun alternative to nightlights for the children’s room, it can also provide a guiding light to the bathroom for those that have a tendency to wake in the night and don’t wish to disturb their bedmate, among many other practical uses. Available from www.thinkgeek.com, it costs $25.99 and will eventually earn its keep with savings on your electric bill.
Cash Stash Key Chain: A little bit of insurance
can go a long way. Just when you least expect it, a bit of cash may save the day, and with this clever little item you can store some away for a rainy day. This key chain made from aircraft aluminum with a stainless steel cap will fit a bill of either pounds or dollars; the denomination depends on your lifestyle. Kept snug and dry with an o-ring seal, a bit of “mad money” is always at your fingertips to save the day, just make sure if you lose your wallet, you don’t lose your keys as well! A mere $8 from www.gadgettastic.com.
Pininfarina Xten Chair: You may not be able to
afford a Ferrari or Maserati, but you can feel as if you are in the driver’s seat when you purchase the Xten ergonomic office chair from the same people who design and manufacture the interiors of these luxury cars. As a chair, it has a luxury price, but using the latest technology it has been designed to provide all-day comfort, and made with space-age materials, will last a lifetime. Those who spend a great portion of their day working at their desk will welcome its sleek design, and how invigorated you will feel at the end of the day. www.spaceff. co.uk carries it for $3,000, along with fashion coordinated desk.
onstruction
nterior
Jamanota 19D Santa Cruz, Aruba
EcaiBA is there for all your home and business needs. We do construction as well as design and manufacture complete interiors for example for restaurants and bars. EcaiBA will partner with you to create a solution that you will love for years to come.
Ph: +(297) 732 5365 Fax: +(297) 585 5301 Email: ecaiba@gmail.com
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The Juke Tower:
Now it is easy and safe to take your music with you into the shower or around the pool with this waterproof player that needs only a USB flash drive to store your sounds. Download a selection from your computer and plug the drive into the Juke Tower, which will give up to twelve hours of play from three AA batteries. A bright red LED readout tells you the time and the track. No need for expensive shower sound systems, this waterproof gadget saves you time, space and money. Available at www.ballerhouse.com for only $129.00
Weekend clock:
This countdown clock will tell you how many days, hours and minutes until you start your weekend. A fun gift for those who live for their time out of the work week grind, or simply for any event that has meaning. We know of one young man that sets it the minute they arrive home from their annual vacation to mark when the family will return to Aruba in anticipation of next year’s trip. Only $28 at www.geeky-gadgets.com, its sleek, contemporary design in black or white compliments any dÊcor, and it also houses an analog clock.
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Photos make great decorations You know the saying: `a picture tells a thousand words’. Well, it does, and more. A photograph is often a memory, with emotions and lots of feelings attached to it. And all of the above is captured in a single shot. If framed right and hung in the right place, a photograph can lift your mood any time you look at it. And it gives your room a uniquely personal touch, putting your own stamp on it. Cherish these photographs and look at them often with fond memories. But how do you choose the photos for your walls? Well, each room in your house has a function and a special atmosphere, so choose pictures that correspond to this. Using the exact same frames throughout your house will create unity, or you can stick to a theme per room.
27 Lighting is of course essential in recreating the feeling you had when the photograph was taken. It will make the photo a point of focus on your wall. We suggest that you have a professional frame your photos. We all know how awful it looks when bubbles or folds can be seen behind the glass; these spoil the picture entirely. Sometimes it is better to choose frames with no glass to avoid glare and to get major impact.
It might sound stupid, but the hanging of your photograph is important too: the right hooks to support and the right spacing on your wall are absolutely key to a great end result.
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Funky is key for your kid’s new room Spicing up your kid’s room should be easy if you have the word funky in mind. Here are some ideas to help you get into the right mind frame to start you off redecorating • Check out your hardware store together with your child to choose striking, vibrant colors for the walls. Old pieces of furniture will get a new, extended life when painted another color. • Let your kid discover his or her creative gene and allow for some unusual choices. • Throw away or donate to charity anything that you will not be using in the new room.
• Visualize the end result and work towards it. • Storage blocks for toys might be a good idea; they can be painted in bright colors that contrast with the walls. • Invest in one or two funky furniture pieces that issue a statement. • Make funky works of art together with your child to put a personal stamp on the new room.
The difference difference isis inin the thedetails details The 29
Chevrolet Ultimate Automobiles
Chevrolet Ultimate Automobiles
Tanki Leendert
Solito Oranjestad
Tanki Leendert
Solito
Wan Boy Supermarket
Oranjestad
Wan Boy Supermarket
Kitchen cabinets supplied by: Kitchen cabinets supplied by: Solito #120 s Tel.: 582-0129 s Fax: 588-0799 sales@eurokitchendesign.com Solito #120 s Tel.: 582-0129 ss www.eurokitchendesign.com Fax: 588-0799 sales@eurokitchendesign.com s www.eurokitchendesign.com
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What is your
“Dream Kitchen?”
hen building a house or remodeling the kitchen, this all-important room, which is often the center of family activity, requires some thought. Intelligent use of the space for cabinets, appliances and ease of use, as well as creating a center where family members usually gather for meals and quality time is often a reflection of their tastes and habits.
House Complete found a dream kitchen come true in the home of Jan Falcone, a long-time resident of Aruba who built her own home almost two years ago. After living for years with a kitchen that did not really suit her, she made sure that this time, she definitely had things “her way.” Presently, Aruba is home to a number of vendors of quality, customized kitchens that utilize computer programs to assemble a kitchen that best exploits the space available and delivers to the customer exactly what they want. Jan had a huge kitchen space to work with, conveniently situated to the dining room and pool deck, and adjacent to an alcove she had constructed as an “outdoor kitchen.” “We do all the baking and frying outside, so the main kitchen doesn’t get hot or greasy,” Jan elucidates. “I know that wood is fashionable for cabinets now, but I love the art deco look I chose, and red is my favorite color. This kitchen is most definitely a reflection of my personal style.”
31 A large, central island, covered with a special granite composite material which is exceptionally durable, is the heart of the kitchen and designed to accommodate many people contributing to the meal. “I love to have my friends over and invite them to cook with me,” Jan explains, “especially those from whom I can get tips in making authentic ethnic cuisines. Preparing a meal with guests and family and then sharing it is one of my favorite pastimes.” The island is also comprised of attractive
storage details, like baskets and wine racks, and lots of drawers. “I really don’t like bending down and digging around in cabinets to find things; I prefer to store them in drawers so I can simply slide them open and have everything right there before me.” Clean, uncluttered countertops are also Jan’s passion, so a large pantry allows for all foodstuffs to be stored out of sight, and she proudly displays her “garage door” cabinet for tucking away frequently used appliances such as a blender and food processor.
“When conceptualizing my kitchen,” states Jan, “I was aware of what I needed to do to make it a room that would be a pleasure to use. I knew I also wanted to make it a special place to be with those that are dear to me, and share good times together.” One would have to agree, she succeeded!
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MOST
To our surprise and delight, when googling “the ten most beautiful islands in the world” the #1 pick on the website “The Universe,” which is the top link on the search response, is -guess what? Aruba!! As with any of these lists, there is an element of subjectivity, but they are usually based on a consensus of multiple opinions. We here in Aruba must of course agree, and also are very impressed by their other choices, each of which has not only beautiful beaches, but other unique qualities that make them a standout from the hundreds of island vacation destinations around the world.
Aruba -“Dushi Terra” is #1 on the list because it is in alphabetical
order, but aside from a glorious shot of Palm Beach and some beautiful sailboats, there is little else mentioned. Those in the know can tell you they return to Aruba annually and are dedicated to the island not only because of the reliable weather and lovely beaches, but the hospitable islanders and excellent diversity of nightlife, activities, shopping and dining. Aruba’s indigenous flora and fauna, typical of a desert island, may not be the standard island backdrop that usually comes to mind, but we believe it is the frosting on the cake presenting a dramatic contrast to the usual beach scene; stunning to the eye and distinctively different.
Baros-Maldives- Part of the Independent Republic
of the Maldives, twenty six atolls make up this island nation, located about 700 km southwest of Sri Lanka in the Laccadive Sea of the Indian Ocean. These atolls consist of 1,192 islets, of which 200 are inhabited. If you really, really want to get away from it all, Baros, which was considered one of the “uninhabited islands” but is now home to resorts which are only accessible by boat, offers total escape. Your resort will meet you at the airport and bring you to your secluded getaway after a 25 minute sea trip, where you can dive, sail, and do everything aquatic, while enjoying gourmet cuisine.
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Bottom Bay-Barbados – Long considered one of the loveliest of Caribbean Islands, Barbados actually sits just a tad east of the sea, and is located in the Atlantic Ocean. The highest point, Mount Hilaby in the Saint Andrew Parish, offers breathtaking views of the lush sugarcane plantations situated along the its slopes. Bottom Bay is a quiet, secluded cove tucked away on the south coast, where the Atlantic is calm, and is semienclosed by coral cliffs, which offer a stunning panoramic view of the expansive bay and beach, dotted with palms.
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Binningup Beach- Australia - The name is from the Aborigines, and though in use since 1849, it was developers who persuaded the powers that be to make it official and legal in the 1950’s. In 1962 it had only one resident, when a road was first cleared to this lovely, secluded spot on Australia’s western shores. Now it is a coastal village sporting 951 residents (according to a 2006 census,) and a scenic golf course. The principal beach, which extends for 22 km, is protected by a parallel reef and the town contains a store, caravan park, skateboard park, recreation centre, youth camp, public library and public oval. Wave action produced by the currents from the outpouring of the Margaret River makes its namesake beach a favorite spot with surfers. Blue Bay Beach-Zanzibar -
Zanzibar, which is comprised of two large island and several small islets, is part of Tanzania, and Blue Bay is located on the principal island of Unguja, popularly known as Zanzibar. It lays 25-50 Km off the African mainland in the Indian Ocean. Pemba, the large sister island to the north, was known as the #1 producer of cloves, but tourism now dominates the economy. Stunning resorts are located along its turquoise waters, but the old quarter, known as Stone Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and home to fascinating and architecturally stunning landmarks, which line streets too narrow for cars to traverse. (Fun fact: It was the birthplace of Freddy Mercury, lead singer of Queen!)
Blue Lagoon, Mauritius
- The Republic of Mauritius is an island nation off the east coast of Africa in the southwest Indian Ocean, 900 km (560 mi) from Madagascar. Renowned as the only home of the Dodo bird, this friendly, tasty creature was extinct within 80 years of being discovered. The Dutch named it in honor of Prince Maurice of Nassau in 1598, but since 1715 it was under French rule, and then in 1810 it was conquered by the British, who allowed the islanders to keep French as the language. Originally an agricultural economy, the tourism industry has been developing since 1968. The island sports a marine park, and Blue Lagoon, on the southeast side of the island, is particularly known for its stunning beach and lush tropical vegetation.
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Blue Lagoon –Fiji - The Republic of Fiji consists of 322 islands and islets, and the 225 acres that is Blue Lagoon is surrounded by a 5000 acre lagoon protected by an atoll with a 200 ft wide and 35 ft deep access. The seas are teeming with life while the shores are protected from the raging waves of the South Pacific. Blue Lagoon Island is privately owned by the proprietors of the resort, and twenty air conditioned bungalows provide complete privacy and escape from civilization. Though incredibly tiny, the island is home to some stunning cave formations for exploring adventures.
Bora Bora Pearl Beach - Bora Bora is an island in the leeward group of the Society Islands of French Polynesia, about 230 km northwest of Papeete. It is surrounded by a lagoon and a barrier reef. At the island’s center can be seen Mount Pahia and Mount Otemanu; the remains of two active volcanoes. Pearl Beach is located on one of the smaller surrounding islets called motu, and over the water bungalows built on stilts are a standard feature of Bora Bora resorts, offering a stunning view of the main island and its twin peaks covered with lush greenery. Spectacular tropical flora and fauna, both above and below the sea, are great attractions. Burj Al Arab –Dubai -
Construction of this resort began in 1994 on an artificial island created specifically as its foundation. The intention is to resemble the sail of a dhow and it stands 280 m (920 ft) out from Juneriah beach over the blue waters of the Persian Gulf, connected to the mainland by a private curving bridge. The outstanding and only feature of the island is the luxurious resort, which is the second tallest building in the world used exclusively as a hotel. It boasts gourmet restaurants at its highest and lowest points, one offering spectacular views of the gulf and Dubai, the other located within a tank filled with a diversity of sea life and reached through a “submarine” trip.
Maui, Hawaii -
Hawaii, the 50th state, is actually a chain of hundreds of island and islets, which comprise the Hawaiian Archipelago. Of the eight “main islands” which have seen the most development, Maui is considered by many to be the “most Hawaiian,” and most beautiful. Towering 10,023 ft high above the island is the mighty volcano Haleakala on which cooled craters and slopes cattle graze; its byways lined with lush tropical flora. The Hana Highway runs along the east coast of Maui, curving around many mountains and passing by black sand beaches and waterfalls. Wailua is considered a must-see: crystal clear waters descend through seven pools until finally reaching the sea.
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All the info for a great vacation! Activities Events Watersports Dining Beaches Shopping Happy hours and more!
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