Issue #1
2019—May/June
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IN THIS ISSUE meet GEMINI Get to know who we are and what drives and motivates us to Travel In Style
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Global citizenship
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Sustainably Green Island!
Embrace culture
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Discover what makes Aruba One Happy Island
Make Your mark
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Featuring D’andre Maxwell AFW 18 Fashion Designer.
Incredible experiences
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Restaurants, extensive cuisine; Nightlife, bars and casinos
Natural beauty
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Recommended shows, events, activities, festivals in and around Aruba
Invest in life
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Recommended events, shows, festivals in and around Aruba style ESSENTIALS
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Meet Gemini
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s an Island Girl, born and raised in St. Croix USVI, it should be no surprise that I love the beach. Beaches are the meeting point between the land and the sea. I respect and pay homage to everything in and around it. I am strong, motivated and in total awe of the Universe. I strive to fulfill my connection, my place in it. Growing up in paradise engrained in me a true appreciate for natural beauty. As I learned about the amazing places around the world, I knew I wanted more. I want to see it all. I want to do it all. I want to go everywhere. I want the most, the prettiest, the biggest, the best! I travel the world and celebrate life, culture, similarities and differences. I am constantly reading, researching, and exploring new places. There is so much to experience see and explore in the world. Let’s embrace it together! Embrace Abundance Live Life to the Fullest 5
Meet Gemini 6
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rowing up in New York City, I've always been excited by style and fashion. The city is ablaze with inspiration. From a young age, I knew that that my hair, shoes, and accessories should complement the occasion.
I was outspoken and would give input and make suggestions about what I wanted to wear. I loved getting dressed up, taking pictures and going out. As a teenager, I had a Fashion and Style wall. My wall featured shoes, hairstyles, clothes, and accessories cut from magazines way before Vision Boards were cool.
I was instinctively channeling the creativity, that I didn’t yet understand. My penchant for fashion and styling continues to evolve. Wearing bold colors and patterns makes a statement without saying a word. With over 20 years of styling experience, I enjoy being the catalyst to transform wardrobes one outfit at a time, changing their outlook, creativity, self-worth and sense of style.
Dress, Impress, Repeat! 7
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is on the path of becoming the first Sustainable Green Island in the Caribbean by 2020. As such this island paradise is highly ranked - Sustainable Tourism Destination. When visiting, it is respectful and appreciated to follow the examples of the locals. You will quickly begin to love this place as they do. There is no litter, no crime, no pollution.
As we embrace Global Citizenship, we encourage all travelers to immerse in the culture, explore and appreciate all that there is to offer. Then depart from this place as nice as you found it, leaving only footprints in the sand and taking lasting memories and friendships.
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Aruba is a beautiful island. From the aerial view as we approached, the crystal blue waters contrast with the lush greenery, only slightly separated by the strips of what I could only imagine was the finest sandiest beaches. The views from afar did not lie. Like most Caribbean island airports, the airplane doors opened to a portable staircase and the open air. The open, tropical, breezy, trade winds air, that almost seemed to whisper, “Welcome to Paradise. You have arrived!� The trade winds are constantly blowing, so it is never too hot in Aruba. Hold on to your hats and short skirts and embrace the tropical paradise which awaits. Another wonderful thing about Aruba is the artistry and cleanliness. At every turn there is beauty and craftsmanship, which is someway made us FEEL happy. The airport was lined with masterpieces and sculptures. It took us forever to actually exit the Airport, not because it was crowded, but because it was so beautiful. The streets were enhanced with tributes. The resort was decorated in honor of the Holidays - Christmas, Caribbean Style. 11
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Aruba is an island melting pot of many different cultures and languages. Locals spoke Papiamento or Spanish, some even Dutch‌ and to my surprise English! Everyone is so welcoming, friendly and accommodating. I highly recommend the Renaissance so that you can be in the heart of everything and near downtown Oranjestad.
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This resort is amazing! There are two sister properties on either side of the Marketplace The Adults-Only Renaissance Marina Bay and the Family friendly Renaissance Oceanside. The close proximity of EVERYTHING is a definite plus. From Starbucks, convenience store and souvenir shops, to the gym, business center and of course the casino.
Being so close to the marina meant that were we not close to the best beaches in Aruba. Again the resort is on it! They own a Private Island with two fantastic beaches. Even more impressive was the boat pick up to take us to the
private island was actually INSIDE the resort! We met a lot of visitors who had been on a return trip. There is so much to see and do in Aruba, it is hard to experience it all in just one visit. 15
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In December 2018, I packed my bags for my first visit to the beautiful island of Aruba. For the past few years, Aruba has been the host country for Aruba Fashion
Week (AFW). Yes, Aruba has a fashion week. It’s known as #thehappiestfashionweek on earth. AFW is regarded as a fashion & luxury
travel Experience. Aruba, highlights fashion and style in the Caribbean. AFW amazed us with three days of inspiration and elegant craftsmanship. I had a front row view to see the beautiful, intricate, sexy, and vibrant designs from some of the Caribbean's most talented designers. 18
We meet D'andre Maxwell. D'andre was among a group of talented "Future Designers of Aruba" featured at Aruba Fashion Week 2018. His choice of bold colors coupled with his unique designs was an excellent way to open the first night of Aruba Fashion Week festivities. His runway looks for his swimwear collection kept heads turning. From the beautiful women, the sexy men and even the cutest little girl as models for his show, there was something for everyone to love.
His show was so fabulous, it ’s hard to choose a favorite look. I loved them ALL! D’andre is confident and his personality shone through in his designs but more so in his own walk down the runway. You could see his smile and feel his pride from a mile away as he walked down the Marketplace Marina runway. 19
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Who is D'andre Maxwell ?
Well D'andre is a boy who is still finding out who is he is as a person and artist he is in love with a lot of things like art fashion dance history pop culture the universe and simply being alive also people but most of all a loving caring daring person who loves a challenge who is willing to dream big everyday and person who knows that every dream and goal he has had and will become a reality because of sacrifice love belief and hard work .
How did you get into fashion design?
From a young age I always had my mom as inspiration how she would dress herself is how I got into fashion but a 2 years ago when I started this art academy on the island is where I found I have an eye love and passion for fashion I breath it feel it love it everyday and made a part of me ever since
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How were you selected for the Aruba Fashion Week 2018 competition?
I volunteered last year at the AFW and at the last show I told myself, one day you are going to be there showing your creativity and imagination. The next year I saw on FB that they had a competition for future designers I said this is my chance the universe is showing me where I need to be I signed up for the competition.
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How did that experience impact you as a young, black designer? How did you feel?
It changed my whole perspective of the fashion industry and as a designer I now have a glimpse on how everything is done talking with big names and getting advice on what to do better is the biggest blessing as young black designer there is allot to.be expected from you new fresh ideas being not being put into this box of what you should be doing but also coming from such a small island where there is not. much of this going on you have the freedom to explore and do things never seen before but to also. make your statement and to brand yourself so people recognize that’s djjm .
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How does your personal style and vision influence the designs in your collection?
I'm a pretty vibrant person I have this light with me wherever I go I light up a room or people feel really comfortable with me and I'm always wearing something with color. I embrace sexiness, it is one of the most powerful weapons a person can have. Sexiness comes from confidence. In your mind and heart if you love yourself that will show in anything you wear. I make clothes that exude confidence, sexiness, pride, strength and power. My clothes are for everyone with my vision I want to bring a message to the world through my clothes, dare to be different dare to be outside of the box, be confident stand your ground and add a little color to your life. It always makes it a bit better.
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How do you describe the woman/ man who wears your designs?
Filled with life not afraid of color. Sharp and follow their intuition as persons on a journey to success and a life filled with abundant happiness. They seek adventure everywhere they go. Out of the box.
Where should we expect to see you in the next 5 years?
In the next 5 years I hope to have received my diploma as a dance teacher and choreographer. Teaching and giving back my knowledge is very big to me, I have a really big heart. Also I will be working on a tour with a very famous personality choreographing and working as an artistic director with them. I will be starting up my fashion business opening an online store, branding all over the world and giving back to my island... showing all the kids that anything is possible. 26
You are body confident. I LOVED THOSE PANTS YOU WORE AT THE SHOW! Your personality is big, bold and vibrant! Have you ever created designs for Curvy women? If so, where and when can we see them (maybe #AFW19)?
Yes I'm very body confident. My journey with arts started out as a dancer I’m still a dancer to this day, but there is a stereotype around the world about how a dancer is supposed to look. Being this size, there wasn't a lot of opportunity for me to express myself but I got a place where I fit in and gave me that freedom. All the no’s that I got I turned that into loving myself. All of the negative comments or “you need to lose weight” I turned that into confidence to strive as much as I can. I haven't done a plus size collection yet because I want to give my curvy followers and people something unique, something different that their character can shine through. There is a stigma of what curvy men and women should wear and as you can see I’m nothing ordinary! 27
RESTAURANTS
The concept of All-Inclusive is great, most of the time, but this is not particularly true or recommended in Aruba. The wide array of restaurants and expansive cuisines from so many different regions of the world, appeals to a sense of gastronomic adventure. On the day of arrival, we headed straight to the Blue Bar.
The chic eclectic vibe was the perfect intro an awesome experience. The DJ was playing great music, the sun was slowly setting over the marina, people were talking and laughing. The staff kept the food and drinks flowing. Everyone has having a great time. It was easy to blend right in.
PICTURE
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The next morning, we ventured out to the Marketplace to find some good eats. The Cuban Restaurant hard all the markings of an authentic Cuban experience. The colao (Cuban coffee) was amazing. The music, the artwork, staff and of course the food provided a vacation on vacation! It was both surprising and liberating to embrace another element of Aruba’s so very diverse and inclusive culture. The Marketplace is a one-stop shop for everything – food wine, movies, live entertainment, special events. The feeling of inclusion, warmth and acceptance are prominent throughout Aruba. This is clear on the restaurant scene.
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We enjoyed The Dutch Pancake House Restaurant, which was almost the exact same as of the Dutch Package House in Amsterdam near Central Station. Some of the staff were even speaking Dutch! Another highly recommended restaurant is El Gaucho Argentine Grill featuring Argentine steaks and specialties. The strolling guitarists further enhance the already very Argentine rustic traditional dĂŠcor with enchanting tangos and boleros. It is a good idea to be mindful of hours of operation and reservation requirements. El Gaucho has been established for over 40 years and has won many awards. Its best to have a plan ahead of time. There is no time to waste, though you might need to schedule time for a nap. Most venues closed at either 10 pm or 11 pm. 30
El Gaucho is a 10 minute walk from the Renaissance. You can easily be distracted and lured into the enticing aromas and ambiance of the many restaurants you will pass along the way. We never quite made it to El Gaucho and opted for L.G. Smith’s Steak and Chop House. L.G. Smith’s offered an elegant dining experience. The intimate seating and attentive wait staff created an opulent fine dining atmosphere. I am certain the other diners felt just as important. The extensive wine list and specialty cocktails paired perfectly with our impeccably prepared steak dinners.
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NIGHTLIFE 32
Fortunately the Casinos stayed open. Gambling is legal and offers all-night partying and endless cocktails. We enjoyed The Lounge Midnight Grill which was nestled between L. G. Smith’s Steak and Chop House and the never-ending excitement of the 24-hour Crystal Casino at Renaissance. The Lounge Midnight Grill offered food, drinks and live music. It was the perfect spot for a night out on town, an intimate conversation or a
relaxing respite from all the action. They opened at 11 pm, as the L. G. Smith’s Steak & Chop House was closing, and overlooked the Casino. Everything was connected to the hotel, which provided an added element of comfort.
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NATURAL BEAUTY 36
The locals take great pride in their island and encourage exploring. The island is small enough that nothing is too far away. You can and most likely will venture out to experience the land the culture the food, the fun the people! The best place to experience the island’s natural beauty is the Arikok National Park, which covers 20% of the whole land mass of Aruba. There is so much to appreciate, absorb and participate in this Park, that one day might not be enough. An Annual Pass is strongly suggested for unlimited access to the Hiking Tours, the ATV adventures, Natural Pool, limestone caves, secluded untapped beaches where locals often enjoy some of the best bodyboarding and surfing at Dos Playa.
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If you are more interested in getting away from the business of city life, inclined to simply relax on the beach every day, revel in amazing sunsets and enjoy a carefree vacation, then Nord is your best bet. The coastal Beach Resorts of the acclaimed Palm Beach are exceptional. The 5-Star Ritz Carlton, the impressive Riu Palace and the magnificent Marriott Stellaris, (Sponsors of Aruba Fashion Week 2018). You will not be disappointed by the amenities activities, nearby bars/ restaurants and Customer service and hospitality. The whole environment and atmosphere in Aruba is wonderful, refreshing, relaxing. You can’t help but to enjoy it all and be happy. 44
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EVENTS
MAY Memorial Day Weekend
www.visitaruba.com
OCTOBER
JUNE Photo by: ww.arubasmf.com
SEPTEMBER
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JUNE
SEPTEMBER
DECEMBER
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SHOP YOUR CLOSET Nothing to Wear? We discover gems hidden in your closet.
PERSONAL SHOPPING It’s in the bag!
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We select colors, styles and patterns that flatter you. You will love your new look
STYLE YOUR EVENT You are invited!
Step into the room and amaze them all. Be “best Dressed at the event. 49
FASHION
Here are some of our Aruba looks! The right wardrobe selections and accessories are the formula to be ready for any occasion!
LIFE’S A BEACH A cute coverup to compliment green palm print deep V-neck onepiece swimsuit.
BREAKFAST BEFORE BEACH A cool and easy t-shirt dress with a bold sandal is the perfect attire for breakfast. It also serves as a cover up before you hit Flamingo Beach.
DINNER AND DANCING A strapless harem pant jumpsuit is a great option for a night out. You can go from dinner and drinks straight to the dancefloor. Statement earrings and a necklace pair well to take the jumpsuit to another level! Statement Necklace Your outfit is complete with a collar fit for a Queen! 50
STATEMENT HEEL
FASHION SHOW AT MARINA
A bold colored platform Sandal adds the finishing touch to your outfit!
We paired a flowing, colorful maxi dress that would catch the breeze with a statement heel. The walk down the runway to your seats awakens your inner-model strut and for a brief moment it feels like you are not just at the show, but in it!
The Arrival Life’s A Beach
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PACKING
You can experience Aruba using a Carryon and a personal item if staying for five or seven days. Yes I said it! Plan for your activities and outings by packing with intention.
THE ARRIVAL
Layering is a must when traveling from colder climates to a warm destination. A thin sweater, jeans, sneakers and a packable down jacket makes your arrival easy. In 5 minutes, you can embrace the island sun! YOUR BAG
A 20� hardcase is all you need to pack your outfits. The use of packing cubes helps to organize and consolidate your pieces. YOUR PERSONAL ITEM
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A large tote or handbag, preferably with a zipper and pockets for safety and easy access. Use this personal item for everything you need while commuting to your destination.
UNDERGARMENTS
Packing a convertible bra ensures that you have options no matter the outfit. Strapless, one shoulder, halter...you name it, you’re covered! PACKING LIST ACCESSORIES
Neutral color shades, a statement necklace, simple hoops and a pair of bold daring earrings give your outfits variety!
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ESSENTIALS
While looking great is a big part of Traveling in Style, the greater, more essential portrayal is to be represented by GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP. Here are some key components to reinforce that the world is here for us all to enjoy, respect and ultimately protect. RESPECT THE CULTURE
CONSERVE WATER
Keep a distance from any rituals or any sites you are told are sacred or off limits.
You are not wasteful at home, please do not be wasteful here. RECYCLE
RESPECT THE PEOPLE Ask permission before taking pictures or video of locals or other people. Be kind to the servers and workers. WALK WHENEVER POSSIBLE The views are spectacular, and you’ll enjoy them more on foot than crammed into a metal box. In a small town, places are close together. If you are going out to browse the shops, walk. If you are going from a hotel to a restaurant, walk. If your hotel is outside the town, drive to the edge of town and walk. It’s good for you, you’ll see and enjoy more, as well as help to reduce any signs of pollution from traffic.
Littering and tossing garbage outdoors are unacceptable and disgraceful: just don’t do it. Try to minimize the garbage you generate. Use any recycling bins as much as possible. HELP US KEEP YOU SAFE Obey all warning signs especially at beaches and while hiking. PRESERVE THE ENVIRONMENT The natural beauty here is to be viewed and admired, not tampered with or defiled. MANAGE YOUR EXPECTATIONS This is a community, not a museum. You are a guest in someone else’s home. Act like it.
FOLLOW THE LAWS of the town and the road. Use your vehicle and carry yourself responsibly. 54
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EDITORIAL:
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