Holidays & Happiness – We need a holiday

H&H H O L I DAY S

HAPPINESS

Ronella: I would get into a plane with Anne Hathaway â—? Fair Enough: Honest gifts, made in Aruba Happiness on Wheels: Offroad wheelchair

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HOLIDAYS & Happiness  Special Edition 3  October 2016

Photo: Jonathan Petit

We Need A Holiday If we took a holiday Took some time to celebrate Just one day out of life It would be, it would be so nice Everybody spread the word We’re gonna have a celebration

All across the world In every nation It’s time for the good times Forget about the bad times, oh yeah One day to come together To release the pressure We need a holiday

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Publisher: Amigoe Aruba Bilderdijkstraat 16-2 Oranjestad, Aruba Telephone: 297 582-4333 Director: Sigrid Hammelburg

These lyrics from Madonna’s song ‘Holiday’ are from 1983, yet ‘holiday’ is as old as time itself. Whereas British people use the word holiday when they go on vacation, to Americans it’s crystal clear that a holiday is a special day of celebration such as Christmas, or Independence Day, one of several public holidays in the United States. Whether you call it a holiday or vacation, it won’t matter, everybody needs it!

In recent years there has been a new trend called the ‘staycation’. A vacation at home away from home. How sweet it is to live on a tropical island, where home means seeing the sun rise every day and going to a beach as white as snow whenever you feel like it.

All the more the reason to feast your eyes on this edition of Holidays & Happiness. In these 32 pages, we’ll focus on everything you want to know to enjoy this island to the fullest. Whether it’s savoring the hotel amenities, taking a hike in nature, practicing yoga on a surfboard or basking in the Aruban culture, we’ve got it all covered.

Meet the Aruban ‘colorful characters’ and read the remarkable article about our ‘Lady of Tourism’ Ronella Tjin Asjoe-Croes, CEO of Aruba Tourism Authority. Get inspired with the recipes of ‘blends & bites’ or be surprised by a special wheelchair that can also give the disabled that great holiday feeling.

This is just a glimpse of the little vacation the H&H Team would like to offer you. So sit back, relax and enjoy the show: We’re gonna have a celebration!

H&H Team

HOLIDAYS & Happiness  Special Edition 3  October 2016

Coordinator, editor, creative concept & photography: Linda Reijnders Sales & Marketing: Tiziana La Torre Linda Reijnders Grecia Willems Natasha Tromp Jamey Baire Translation: Marlon van der Linde Graphic Design: Joost Horward – Adctra Printer: Interprint Aruba N.V. 3

THE ROOM MAID & THE DOORMAN

Many times, people behind the scenes don’t stand in the spotlight.

But in the realm of tourism and commerce, they often do make a great difference without being noticed. Imagine coming back to a squeaky-clean hotel room after a day at the beach. This will make you feel you’re being pampered even more. And picture yourself the doorman who cordially opens the door of a store for you, so that you feel welcome. In The Room Maid & The Doorman, you’ll get to know two people who put their heart and soul into their profession to make their customers feel happy.

The Room Maid:

‘I stick my nose everywhere’ Marlene Pemberton has been working for 30 years at Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa. “In 1984 I started working at what was then Sheraton Hotel. For 2 years I assisted my sister-in-law with housekeeping and then in 1986 I heard that Manchebo was looking for people to work for them. I applied and got hired.” At the time, she was 30 years old and 30 years later, she’s still here. “My first job was as a linen room clerk.

I made sure of handing out all the linen to the room maids. In those days, things were much more different than now. First, we had to count everything: the bedsheets, the pillowcases … everything. And then we had to sort them out in order to distribute them. Nowadays everything is easier. Everything is done with machines and you don’t need so many people. Big items go to the big laundry and smaller items to the smaller laundry. They’re already being counted.” In no time Marlene was cleaning hotel rooms and after 6 months she got promoted to housekeeping supervisor.

“I love the challenge. There’s always something different and there’s no routine. I also lived through the changes made to the rooms. I’ve seen everything, then and now.” At Manchebo, there are a lot of repeat guests and among them are people whom Marlene sees come and go for 30 years and who know her by name. “They come for the personal touch. They’re happy with the personal service, because you know the customer and you know what they want.” Nowadays tourists are more demanding and at times it amazes her what their requirements are. “Other pillows, more pillows, other bed linens, foot rollers, back rollers. Sometimes you need to have a lot of patience”, she laughs. “Most new tourists ask about the water.

I always tell them: ‘We have the best water in the Caribbean, so go ahead and drink it.” An advice she gladly gives to the new room maids is to always be observant when entering a hotel room. “I always know where everything is and I memorize them. That way, you avoid awkward situations. Guests tend to forget where they left something and many times I have to remind them where they left it.” Marlene knows the hotel like the back of her hand. She has worked in every department at one time or another and she’s available everywhere she’s needed. “I know every single corner and I stick my nose everywhere”, she jokes.

The Doorman:

‘There are 30 different suits in my closet’ At the doorway of the well-known La Linda store, there is a remarkable sight: a gentleman dressed from head to toe, with a vest, a hat and pointed shoes.

May we present to you Ronald Figueroa, the 80-year-old doorman of La Linda. “’Bonbini, welcome to La Linda.’ That’s what I say everytime someone comes in. I put the customers’ bags in the lockers and I also take care of security.

I’m doing this job for about 5 years.” The first 5 months Mr. Figueroa wore a ‘chacabana’, a typical men’s shirt with short sleeves. The owner of La Linda had it especially delivered from Cuba. “Even so, his wife thought a suit with a vest would look nicer on me. So a line of suits had been tailored according to my measurements: white, red and black. Meanwhile, I have 30 different suits.”

He’s obviously proud of his job and it’s rare to see such passion in a human being when he talks about his daily activities. He’s a gentleman, both inside and outside. “Customers come from all over the world and that’s really great.

However, I notice that nowadays people become upset more often, especially when they can’t enter the store anymore, because we’re closing. These are strict orders from the boss and I stick to them, also due to security purposes.”

Mr. Figueroa first came to Aruba when he was 33 years old. His father was Venezuelan en his mother from Bonaire, but Ronald was born in Curaçao, where he grew up. “I came by boat to Aruba in search of a job.” And he’s still working, until it’s not possible anymore. He doesn’t look 80 at all and he has his own explanation for this: “I talk to God and that makes me stay young. And I ate good food when I was young, especially fish head soup.”

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HOLIDAYS & Happiness  Special Edition 3  October 2016

Nurturing Yourself to Be Well At Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa the world of well-being starts in the lobby with fruit infused water and fresh apples inviting the guests to take a sip and a bite. “A Caribbean-Balinese style spa retreat with a view of a turquoise Caribbean Sea. A complete yoga and Pilates program offered in the fresh air on beautiful wooden yoga decks. Organic dishes featuring vegetarian and vegan options seasoned with fresh herbs cultivated in the herb garden on the premises. All this combined with the possibility to tailor these options into a personalized program. This is how Carla van Loenen of the Sales & Marketing department summarizes the resort. Here ‘Nurturing yourself to be well’ is 100% applicable.

they are the face of this piece of heaven. “Five cabanas with an ocean view are awaiting our guests to enjoy a massage, wrap or some other treatment for yourself or together with your partner while enjoying the fresh air. Why would you go into an air-conditioned room if you came here to enjoy the warm climate?” Another unique aspect of this spa is the design and garden. You enter through beautiful wooden doors with Balinese wood paneling. The garden is decorated with Asian sculptures, where you hear streaming fountains and singing birds.

“We have created a piece of Bali here on Aruba.

There are relaxing massages, hot stone and shiatsu massages available. Furthermore, we offer body scrubs, wraps, manicure & pedicure. We even offer a eucalyptus steam bath and a Jacuzzi.”

“In the past vacationing was all about indulging yourself with alcohol, unhealthy food and partying. This has changed drastically. The guest looks for balance, wants to relax and strengthen both body and soul, by eating healthy, exercising and enjoying spa treatments. Of course there are still happy hours and moments to enjoy fries and a burger. However, the focus is really on wellness” explains Carla. At Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa you start to feel ‘well ’ by the amazing location of the hotel at the widest stretch of beach of Eagle Beach. The turquoise ocean calls and the waving palm trees complete this picture.

Clean eating After being indulged physically the inner body asks for clean eating. Nine power fruit smoothies bursting with vitamins including citrus, ginger, honey and coconut water, optional to be topped off with chia and flex seeds will for sure boost your day.

Ike’s Bistro is the place to be for breakfast featuring homemade granola and steel cut oatmeal. Also for a Mediterranean treat in the evening. The resort chef is a fan of healthy food and you can really taste this! As he offers fresh seafood, quinoa and many more vegetarian and vegan options.

The Chophouse is the other newly renovated restaurant at Manchebo where your senses are tickled by the tastes and interior design.

The Omakase sushi bar has a cosmopolitan appearance and includes a lot of pure choices on the menu. The amazing thing about Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa is that they have their own greenhouse filled with herbs that are used in the different kitchens.

Zen delight At Spa del Sol you are in an amazing BalineseCaribbean styled cabana with a view of the ocean, where you can hear real nature sounds. The whispering of the ocean, the waving of the palm trees and the birds in the garden. More Zen than this it does not get. Jeuline Abspoel is the proud owner of the spa retreat. Together with her sister,

HOLIDAYS & Happiness  Special Edition 3  October 2016

Yoga on the beach The circle is almost complete! After an indulging massage and healthy bite. Off course followed by a good night’s sleep in one of the comfortable and quiet rooms of the hotel. The following morning the yoga or Pilates instructor awaits you on the wooden deck with an ocean view. “Full of delight, with the wind blowing through the pavilion and the ocean view”, according to the enthusiastic Carla.

“The yoga and Pilates classes are very popular. We even had to build an extra pavilion on the edge of the hotel where the evening classes are offered and where visiting yoga teachers offer their retreats.

We are lucky to have these amazing instructors, and yes of course our additional asset is that the classes are offered in the fresh air facing the ocean.”

Having taken this information, I walk around and I can both see and feel the complete picture. Here you can really escape, relax, de-stress and unwind.

The scenery is pure energy and the complete package offered by the hotel is just an extra bit.

Not least because of the almost familiar service.

An oasis of well-being, which is what Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa is a nutshell.

You are more than welcome to visit Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa to rejuvenate! Try a yoga class or get a massage at Spa del Sol to nurture yourself.

Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa J.E. Irausquin Blvd 55, Oranjestad T: 297 582-3444 www.manchebo.com facebook: Manchebo Beach resort & Spa

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Colorful Characters

The Aloe Man

Boa Bob

He draws quite some attention, when arriving in the hotel lobby. The Aruban Aloe Man a.k.a. Andres is without a doubt an appearance on his own and his presence is felt. A colorful hat, a Hawaiian shirt with a tie, and a backpack filled with self-made fresh aloe. With his distinctive call, he draws attention, and you can hear people think; who is this striking appearance and what is he doing?

Bobby Miller is an American from Texas and goes by as Boa Bob. His appearance is characterized by the cowboy hat, cowboy boots and leather jacket, which leads us to suspect we are dealing with a tough man here. That turns out to be right because Boa Bob catches and kills boas, which are a plague on the island.

“My business started 38 years ago. As a 15 year old kid, I lived and worked on a boat for tourists, where I could see them get sunburnt. I knew about the healing power of aloe, so I sold 5 dollar bottles filled with that stuff to tourists, who needed to sooth their sunburns. At the time there was only one hotel that had aloe plants on their premises, and I was allowed to take it for 5 dollars.”

The government became aware of the fact that Andres was selling the aloe and they decided to do a test, to check if it really worked. This turned out to be the case. “After that I got a license and a medical declaration to sell it on the beach. That is what I have been doing since. I get up very early to find the aloe and squeeze it through a cheesecloth, so that only the juice remains.

Exactly the same way our ancestors, the Indians, did it. Aruba’s aloe is the best in the world; they are the ‘roots’ of the island.” Besides that the content is healthy, Andres recycles the bottles as well which makes this a full green product. “I sell the aloe in recycled Budweiser bottles. The beach is my office, where I work 4 to 5 hours a day to sell my product.”

Fresh aloe has quite some healing powers; it can be used for bronchitis, ulcers and burns. It is also great for your hair; it helps with heartburn and sooths after surgery.

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Ten years ago, he came to Aruba as an expat working for the oil refinery. “As a child I used to catch snakes, alligators, wild cats and other wild animals. I grew up with them because we lived in Southeast Texas, with many swamps.

So I wasn’t afraid of these animals, they were part of my life growing up. I have been bitten many times by snakes in my life.”

Boa Bob helps the police, when necessary, to catch a boa. He also provides training to police teams on how to catch the snakes. “I catch them with my hands, cut off the head and skin them. Sometimes I keep a few at my house for a week or so.” Bob loves snake meat that he prepares himself.

“The meat is full of protein. You have to make sure you cut the snake at a certain distance from the head in order to guarantee there is no poison in the meat anymore. The meat is excellent for the BBQ, but I also make croquettes or fry it. In New York there are restaurants, where snake meat is a delicacy.” Boa Bob also makes jewelry from snake skin, varying from earrings to bracelets.

In the past 10 years, Bobby has caught over 2000 snakes, helping to control the plague. “A female snake can give birth to 200 babies, and after one time of having had sexual intercourse, she can impregnate herself. It is unbelievable how fast the boa population can multiply itself.”

HOLIDAYS & Happiness  Special Edition 3  October 2016

Adaili “My son always tells me I am a bohemian and that reflects the place. To bring nature inside, that is the future. And we feel that tourists look more and more to go back to the essence, empty their head and let go of it all.” It is for that reason that the villas do not have Wi-Fi, or television. “In the future we will have a room available in the main building with these services, but it is not in the spirit of the villas to have these distractions there.” The actual name of the five gems is Adaili which comes from the Arawak Indians and means ‘glorious sun’.

Imperfect Perfection of Nature Ecotourism means taking nature into account.

It is about cherishing nature’s course and being reluctant to control it. At the spot, where the restaurant The Old Man & The Sea used to be, we discover five Ocean Villas nowadays. They stand 100 % behind ecotourism. “Nature flows freely here, of course within a concept, but we have the perfect imperfection of nature. Bonding with the elements and let go, that is the philosophy behind it”, states Osyth Henriquez, owner of this amazingly, beautiful gem at the coast of Savaneta.

The entrance -through a huge wooden, Bali-style gate-leads you via a wooden path, that is embraced by tropical greens, to an astonishing, white, sandy beach with on the left and right the five villas. Each has their own homey feeling and each expresses the owner’s artistic wave of creativity that resulted into this exclusive hideaway. The villas consist of one space surrounded by large glass windows in order to be in sight with nature constantly. There is a four-poster bed, a gorgeous roll-top bath or a Jacuzzi outside on the terrace, an outside shower, a hammock and much more to complete the romantic feeling. Outside awaits the Caribbean ocean in all its colors of blue, the mangroves with their proud tentacles in the water and just white, white sand. This is pure harmony.

HOLIDAYS & Happiness  Special Edition 3  October 2016

Recycling Osyth has ambitious plans with the place as this is a project to grow. She strives to use as much recycled materials as possible for the interior and exterior styling, but it goes beyond that. “I re-use dead coral that has ignorantly been ruined by contractors at coastal construction sites. I put it into the ocean here in order for sea plants to grow on it.” Guests can already book the villas now and they can even arrange a private chef to cook every night. “We will surprise our guests with a different location on the premises every time they dine. It can be on top of the roof of the main building, sitting at a pile of cushions on the white beach… we will make sure it is an experience that is not easy to forget.” In the future she likes to offer the concept ‘eating with locals’ which means the guests go and have dinner at the house of friends of the owner. “And we will have our own restaurant on the premises. We will focus entirely on pure and fresh food.” There is more to come and by sensing the adventurous soul of the owner it will most probably be an inspiring, green, out-of-the box supplement to the already amazing concept.

The Old Man & The Sea Ocean Villas Savaneta 356-A, Savaneta T: 297 584-3434 Facebook The Old Man & The Sea Ocean Villas

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Eyes wide open to 20 years Kok Optica It’s a business unlike any other. It’s like a breath of fresh air and here it’s really easy to find what you’re looking for. It’s the kind of business where it’s just plain fun. Here you decide if you want to leave quickly (because you will be attended right away) or if you would like to stay a little longer (because you like the homey feeling). Kok Optica is that kind of place. This year is a very special one for the family business, as Kok Optica is celebrating its 20th birthday.

Frans and Alexandra Kok are siblings who jointly run the five Kok Optica stores. “But it all started with my parents. They are part and parcel of our business. They instilled in us the important things.

The way they raised us defines who we are and what we stand for.” The Kok family is greatly attached to their business and mother and father Kok still faithfully come each day to the office to help run the business. “They are our own Board of Directors”, Alexandra jokes. Together with their brother Rudolph, there are five members of the Kok family who run five stores: the main optical store on Wilhelminastraat and the four sunglass stores, two of which are in Oranjestad, one at the Paseo Herencia Mall and one at the airport.

June 1, 1996 Frans still remembers the opening day as if it were yesterday. “It was June 1, 1996 and it was extremely busy the whole day. It was really a great day.” It’s funny how Frans and his sister entered the profession, because for both of them it wasn’t their first choice right away. “My father was an optician and he worked at an optical store. At the time, I had no clue what career I wanted to pursue, so he

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suggested I entered his profession. I still remember what I was thinking: ‘OK, let’s try this than’”, Frans laughs. He studied at the same school in Rotterdam as his father, as did his sister Alexandra afterwards. “For my father, it was an emotional time to return to his old school with me, especially when Alexandra also followed suit. We followed in his footsteps.” Like Frans, his sister Alexandra returned to Aruba after completing her degree. “I had no choice, because I got a one-way ticket”, she jokes. To Frans it was clear he wanted to start his own business after completing his degree. “I had a lot of ideas and I really wanted to be innovative.

At the time, my mother and my brother spotted the building on Wilhelminastraat. When I saw the building, I thought it was about to fall down. People weren’t living there for years and the neighborhood didn’t have such a good reputation. Besides, these old traditional Aruban houses have only 4 different rooms, how were we going to put the collections in there?” However, the positive attitude of his mother and his brother paid off and now, 20 years later, it’s this building that characterizes Kok Optica. The recently opened sunglass store is situated in the old Chez Matilda building, where in the past the Kok family has lived. “Our philosophy is to restore things and to stimulate and support the local economy as much as possible.”

The collections then and now From the beginning, it’s very clear that Kok Optica targets the fashion trends. Frans thinks it’s important that the latest models are available. “That’s our strong point and from the beginning a unique selling point. People know that at our stores they’ll find a collection that’s up-to-date. Aruba may be small,

yet people love the latest trends.” In the past glasses were small, nowadays the frames stand out and they are big. “People are becoming more daring and Kok Optica follows this trend. We encourage our customers to move with the times. That way, you set the tone.” Not only are the size and the striking colors different than before, the purpose of wearing glasses is also different. Frans: “We know children who cry when it turns out they don’t need glasses after an eye exam. Glasses have become a fashion item and nowadays people even buy glasses without prescription, just for the look.” This is true if you look around in the showcases, because there are models ranging from flamboyant and fancy brands to classic, simple frames. “I always say: There is at least one pair of glasses for any person.”

The next 20 years After 20 years, a question that bears asking is how are the next 20 years going to be like. And the answer is very promising. Frans: “We will stay upto-date with the fashion trends and we will keep our commitment to service. Twenty years ago I never thought we would have 5 stores, so you never know what tomorrow brings.” Alexandra adds that Kok Optica wants to go the extra mile in terms of service. “My mother says that you need to treat everyone the same way you want to be treated.

Make the most of what’s important to you.”

Kok Optica

Wilhelminastraat - Mainstreet - Havenstraat Paseo Herencia - Airport T: 297 583-7237 www.kokoptica.com facebook: Kok Optica

HOLIDAYS & Happiness  Special Edition 3  October 2016

In the film ‘Night at The Museum’ everything comes to life during the night at the Museum of Natural History. Main character is the night watchman, played by Ben Stiller. At the National Archaeological Museum Aruba (NAMA) things might be different during the night, but the museum also has a main character during the day. He is the first one the visitor gets to see and thus can be called ‘the face of the museum’: Norwin Maria.

Day at the Museum

“I am eager to learn. I took my traineeship of my study Economics at EPI here at the museum. After that I started working here and I never left”, he says with a big smile. Norwin can be called a jackof-all-trades as his work contains several tasks: front desk, facilitator of several departments, administration and guided tours. “The fun thing about this museum is you actually get to learn about the island’s history in a vivid way. I love the second floor where you can find a similarity of the life of the first inhabitants.”

roots. I can see that children love to come here, moreover because we organize quests for schools and we offer vacation activities.”

Your Roots The number of visitors is increasing the last couple of years, Norwin states. “I keep monthly statistics and they tell me that the number of locals as well as foreigners has increased since 2012. Most visitors are American or Dutch, but we get more and more South-Americans.” For Norwin it is clear as daylight that everyone that lives on the island should have visited the museum at least once. “It tells you about your island, your

The exhibition of NAMA is distinctly showing the Aruban public as well as the international visitor that the island has a rich archeological history.

Established in 1981, the NAMA has expanded its goals through the years into becoming a leading research institution with important educational tasks. Opening hours are Tuesday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The NAMA is located at Schelpstraat 42 in downtown Oranjestad. Free entrance.

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Christmas Pose

How exhausting it can be to decide upon your holidays outfit. Even if you are not on top of fashion, you will have to focus on it one way or the other. Thing is, in every magazine Christmas fashion trends are almost marked for clothes that are made for cold weather. What about us here in the tropics? No, we do not wear flip flops and beach tunics 365 days a year, people! Let’s make it easy for you: for woman and man we have selected some of the spring trends for 2017, coming from Harper’s Bazaar. Wear them this Christmas and you are ahead of fashion trends. Strike a pose!

Stoned

The color between white and sandy beige is a hit this coming season. It is not only a fantastic color for a suit, but it is also a sun-friendly alternative to stark white jeans and it will warm up all skin types.

EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE EVE Walk the Line

From the bold and beautiful to the classic and restrained, many runways shared an appreciation for the straight and narrow.

Flower Girl

The floral story this season is whimsical, punchy and ready to party—it also comes mixed with fruit, in cartoonish shapes and on any number of flowing gowns.

Yes captain

Nothing feels quite as perfect for a prep-inspired spring as a good nautical detail—and, thankfully, the runways offered them up by the (sail) boat load.

Furthermore ladies: Bathrobes, the new trench coat, and a shoulder reminiscent of your favorite ‘80s dance flick are hot! Get inspired.

Technical outerwear

Themes of travel, voyaging and cross-cultural mixing were popular in the European fashion shows. It is not a surprise looking at the buzz of immigration issues throughout the continent. This manifested itself through the rise in popularity of traditional hiking gear with a twist.

Stripes are wide

Victorious vertical stripes it is. While a menswear classic, the difference this season is that they were seen in varying widths - what we’d be inclined to call ‘deckchair prints’ - and injected with pastel colors clashed with darker ones, as seen at Ami and Fendi.

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J.G. Emanstraat No. 96, 523-4848 • De la Sallestraat No. 65, 583-4843 Rockefellerstraat No. 2, 583-5556 • Tanki-Flip No. 82, 583-4800 www.islandfinancearuba.com

Island Finance Aruba

@IFAruba

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HOLIDAYS & Happiness  Special Edition 3  October 2016

Inspirational Shopping with Meaning T.H. Palm & Company, The Lazy Lizard, The Juggling Fish, Caribbean Queen and A Taste of Aruba

Jodi Tobman certainly took a strange road to get to Aruba, but what she achieved here is a range of inspirational stores that stand out and cannot be ignored. By entering one of The Salamander Group stores you sense a certain vibe. You feel welcomed, inspired and there is this sensation of detail. “We really strive to offer a retail experience.

People come here sometimes just for retail therapy. We love that they do.”

She has a Master Degree in criminal justice, is originally from Boston and used to live on the island of Saint Kitts. “I worked in tourism there and I had a lot of free time. A girlfriend of mine had a small store on a pier I worked in sometimes and I thought: one day I am going to have a store.” A love for shopping and the joy experienced watching someone receive a gift, seeing someone’s face light up when they open a wrapped package is in her blood. One thing led to another and Jodi opened her first store at The Mill Resort, back in 1994. She is now the proud owner of seven shops, gathered under the name The Salamander Group. “A salamander is a flexible creature and that is what we aim for, flexibility in a constantly changing environment.”

Gift Guru T.H. Palm & Company street side at Playa Linda Beach Resort can be described as a trip through an exciting retail land. There is a gift for everybody here and yours will be original and stand out.

“I definitely have a passion for seeing client’s reactions to the store. When a repeat client walks in and I overhear them saying: this is our favorite store in Aruba, well that’s the good stuff to me.”

Upscale resort wear, casual island clothing, shoes, exclusive fashion accessories, handcrafted jewelry, handbags, belts, hats; island-chic home accents and artistic tableware are on the stores menu.

Caring Queen A boutique in West Indies style pays homage to all women: Caribbean Queen at Palm Beach

Plaza offers fab fashion accessories, jewelry, handbags, hats, hair ornaments, belts, shoes and more to encourage you to adorn yourself. “Each month we highlight a female local artist featuring her handcrafted art or accessories. She is our Caribbean Queen allowing us to highlight the talent on our island.” Being the queen of the company, Jodi shows that royalty can be very caring. In 2007, The Salamander Group launched its corporate responsibility program—Tikkun Olam—as a way to give back to the local community. It is an ancient philosophical concept with a wonderfully simple message: the betterment of our world is possible if we believe that our individual positive actions indeed make a difference. “At our yearly donation event I pick staff members to hand over the checks to the various foundations. The foundations get a chance to present the work they do and also mingle with other organizations in the social field. My employees share with family and friends about what they witnessed, everyone learns something. It is a night with a lot of emotion and joy. And I get to be part of it.”

University of Salamander The Salamander Group has 35 employees and Jodi is extremely proud of her team. “We continuously develop our team, we call it the University of Salamander and you have to be very special to want to attend. We expect a lot, you cannot stand here with your hands folded. A mix of nationalities represents the diversity of the company. “We all have to work together and get along. My clients come from all over the world as does my team. I made a point to employ women of a certain age, when I first started out I felt women over 40 were often ignored in the workplace.”

We take Aruba to…

“A place where they can see gift ideas that they have not seen before. That is our goal. A place where you can have fun, are excited, be inspired and relax. As part of the community we wish we could see more tolerance, empathy, love and respect for our differences.”

HOLIDAYS & Happiness  Special Edition 3  October 2016

T.H. Palm & Company

Street Side at Playa Linda Beach Resort Palm Beach T: 297 592-7804

Caribbean Queen Palm Beach Plaza Mall Ground Floor L.G. Smith Boulevard #95 T: 297 592-0897

A Taste of Aruba

At South Beach Centre next to The Lazy Lizard & Hooters Palm Beach T: 297 592- 7801

The Lazy Lizard

South Beach Centre, next to Hard Rock Cafe Palm Beach T: 297 592-7807 Alhambra Mall, across from Fusion T: 297 592-7805

The Juggling Fish (2 adjacent stores) On the beach at Playa Linda Beach Resort Palm Beach T: 297 592-7802 T: 297 592-7803

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CILO City Lounge, located at the Renaissance Market Place with views of the Marina opened its doors approximately 7 years ago.

Having established a keen following with locals and tourist over the years, even the best of restaurants need to change pace and look ahead to a bright future. With the set reminiscent as if a stylish lounge met up with a quant European restaurant, CILO is the place to go for a glass of wine after shopping, live DJ music during cocktail happy hour or delicious and filling lunch and dinner while enjoying some live music in the background. How about a Soato Ajam soup, Beef Quesadilla or Healthy Wealthy sandwich for your mid-day break or Pork & Beer, Lambs rack or the famous CILO Pasta for dinner? The options are endless for both meat - and fish lovers, and vegetarians.

Even though CILO has been around for a couple of years, the restaurant believes it has something new to offer for those looking for an impeccable and economic night out. Especially since the recent change in menus with the focus on honest, genuine and pure food. With the very best, fresh products, and everything freshly homemade. First class ingredients and respect for the seasons are decisive. Only then will you get that pure real flavor. The new menu may seem simple, but appearances can be deceiving.

The new recent additions in the team have resulted in a fresh wind and strong force to go through the restaurant, coming to its ultimate high last summer with the introduction of the new menu with exciting wines, an extensive gin & tonic list and cocktails original and innovative to the island. One thing especially apparent, mostly

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to those who have often visited the restaurant over the years, is the cut in options as the menu went to half the amount of pages. The reason behind this bold step is the new direction CILO is heading. “We believe in Quality over Quantity.

When you open the kitchen in the morning and there are 1001 things on your mise en place, you will miss the time and dedication to put love and thought in every single dish”.

The new menu is a first step towards the ultimate goal of CILO. Providing food that is all made by the restaurant itself. This starts at the base. Led by the chef, the kitchen staff starts early in the morning. “We draw our own gravy from bones, vegetables and herbs. Our chicken broth is made fresh every day. This forms the base for our beautiful traditional sauces and soups. It’s a lot of work but the achieved result is more than worth it! You can taste the difference immediately.”

CILO lives by the mantra: Everything stands or falls with the right ingredients. Therefore, the restaurant is very critical when it comes to suppliers. Only the best products are good enough, preferable organic and in the vicinity.

Unfortunately, this can offer some challenges, since we’re on an island. This, however, only resulted that CILO has limited the menu to dishes with the freshest and best products locally and easily available. Above all taste is decisive, which must be impeccable. Always.

In general, the restaurant has discovered people are looking for new and exciting dining options.

And CILO has exactly that. Something new indeed! In the winter months and the holidays in sight sharing will be at the fore front as CILO is taking a trip through the most distinctive kitchens in the world. Every Friday small items from different origins like Spain, France, Italy and the Middle East. The restaurant will also be the set of a weekly fresh market, something familiar to those who have been lucky enough to wonder around quaint markets in the South of Europe.

Location is key in this matter as CILO will take advantage of the great relationship it has build with the fishermen docking their boats right in front of the restaurant and bringing in freshly caught fish.

Even when you are in a hurry, CILO is your place to go as it now offers a Take Away menu, giving guests a chance to enjoy CILO’s delicious lunch options at home, in the office or on the go any time of day.

Visit CILO 2.0. when you are in the area or call to make a reservation. The restaurant is open every day from 8am – 12am and offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. The wonderful team will be awaiting your arrival.

CILO City Lounge Rennaissance Marketplace Oranjestad T: 297 588-7996 info@cilo-aruba.com Facebook: CILO Aruba

HOLIDAYS & Happiness  Special Edition 3  October 2016

A Nose for Wine People love talking about wine almost as much as they love drinking it. Thing is, Aruba Wine Club makes both possible. Free membership offers you convenient free home delivery and invitations to social events and monthly newsletters that excites you with the latest trends in wine. The in-house sommelier adds to the buzz with tips about wine and food pairings.

Through cooperation with local wine importers the Aruba Wine Club has the ability to offer a selection of wines, often at prices lower than retail. They also offer a wide selection of beer and spirits in their portfolio.

With the Holidays around the corner, Aruba Wine Club composed special and custom made packages. These are ideal as holiday and end-of-year appreciation gifts for employees, clients and business associates. One can choose out of two options: a package of two or six bottles. Prices start as low as Afl 25 and will be beautifully packaged. Orders above Afl 150 will be delivered free.

Aruba Wine Club: they just have the nose for it! www.arubawineclub.com orders@arubawineclub.com Facebook: Aruba Wine Club

HOLIDAYS & Happiness ď‚„ Special Edition 3 ď‚„ October 2016

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Personality Ronella Ronella Tjin Asjoe-Croes, CEO at Aruba Tourism Authority, is without a doubt three times a lady.

The Lady of Tourism shines with her presence, her dealings and her professionalism. Who is this lady? What drives her? These questions sparked the curiosity of writer Linda. “This is about you and not what you do.”

How was Ronella as a little girl? “As a child I was very shy. Being the first child -I have one sister and one brother-, I do get this sense that my parents were extra careful. I must say that they invested a lot, not only through care and love, attention and education, but also through curriculum activities.

So I had ballet classes since I was 4 years old as well as swimming classes, tennis, scouting, piano classes and artistic gymnastics. Every day I had probably two or three extracurricular activities.”

She had a very active childhood and her favorite hobbies always turned out to be the ones that kept her going after her goals. In addition, there were the social activities with her family. “My family is rather big. Uncles, aunts, nephews, nieces … It was always about family as well. Every Sunday we came together and there was this special family touch that marks my childhood memories. Yes, I had a very happy childhood.”

The reason she is the successful professional woman today is her upbringing where her parents played a key role. Her mom being a teacher for 35 years, invested a great deal of time in us. My dad, who

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used to work for the Government was always also involved in business. “He was always into business and at the age of 12, 13 years I did some work for him to earn my own pocket money that resulted in a happy ride to the Benetton”, Ronella jokes. “What I think is very important is the determination this brought me to do my own business in the future.” As a little girl in pj’s, walking around the house, Ronella saw her dad frequently showing his clients their house and its art for them to admire. “One of the businesses my dad owned was a restaurant, adjacent to the house where I lived as a child. Paradise Restaurant, it was called. I remember I used to distribute flyers on the beaches and I had to say: Welcome to paradise! I often times got a dollar or two as tip and that was great.”

Her dad was also co-owner of the Tattoo Party Boat.

“So there is another touch with tourism. Besides of these possibilities to work with my dad’s company and get in touch with tourists, there was always the realization that tourism is very important for Aruba and the Caribbean as a whole.”

What do you do to relax? She laughs. “First of all I have to say that what I learned about myself is that I am probably hooked on being busy. I can’t stand still.” No matter the circumstances, Ronella needs to squeeze in some activity, which is why she starts her day going for a run or exercising in the gym. “I stick to that religiously, it clears my mind. It is part of my balance.”

But of course, there is also the social relaxation, which means she has her Friday Happy Hour with her husband and or friends. “My work comes with

a lot of social things, which is not always easy. It can be a lot, sometimes every evening. But it is part of the job and people expect you to be there. It does not bother me, on the contrary, I value that people take the opportunity to give you their thoughts, even in public, and share something with you.” She states that maybe people think she is not approachable all the time, but she really is. “My personal feeling is that once they talk to me, they experience that I am very accessible.” Stress is quite unfamiliar to her. “Key and critical situations trigger me.”

Vietnam is the country Ronella would love to go to on vacation. This heavenly, culturally infused country would broaden her perspective on life.

“There should be downtime as well, so my initial comment on doing nothing is also applicable. I am not really disciplined in taking vacations. I haven’t done it for years. And that is a point I have to improve.” Nowadays, she tries to experience the other side of the places she visits for work. “It is a business trip, meaning hotels and meetings, but I try to add a little flavor by doing something else.”

If she had to choose a celebrity as a travel partner, Ronella would get into the plane with Anne Hathaway. It did not even take her a second to name the actress. “Because I think I can relate to her. I always respect the fact that she has been able to carry herself, the way she does it, the roles that she plays and the fact that she is young.” Another person that can hop on Ronella’s travel bus is the

HOLIDAYS & Happiness  Special Edition 3  October 2016

prime minister of Canada. He is a man she would love to have a moment with to exchange thoughts.

“He is doing so many things that are different and that intrigues me. If you want to be a leader, you cannot do the same things all the time and you need to take risks. Margaret Thatcher is a person whom I think did great things as well, in her time. Not all popular, but as a female leader –which is already impressive on itself for that time- and the decisions she has made, considering the point where the world was at that time, to me is pretty amazing.”

The fact that she is a female leader in tourism is not an important issue to Ronella. It is rather the young age at which she started that she considers a blessing. “I am doing this job for 12 years already, 6 years in Bonaire and 6 years in Aruba. When I started my job as Director of Tourism in Bonaire, I was 27 years old. So to me it was very fortunate that I was presented with that opportunity, one which I decided to take.” She is convinced one needs to grab the opportunities when they present themselves, as they happen for a reason. “I was a junior that was sitting at the table with experienced people. How am I going to gain their trust I asked myself? So I was like: I have to book results and fast. I am here to change things. Fortunately that is what happened.” Ronella gradually booked results, which led to respect and trust in her capabilities

despite of being young. “I mean, yeah, there are a lot of men at the table, but that does not bother me much. Plus nowadays in the international world of tourism you see a lot of young professionals in key positions, so it is not exactly lots of senior men at the table anymore.” Nevertheless as its pertains to female leaders in the industry, on island ... the great majority of Hotel GM’s are male for instance. Yes you can feel left out sometimes and it does require a different approach. It is a pleasure though to work with them, not an issue at all. I still believe there should be more women. In Aruba, as compared to other Caribbean destinations, you do see more and more young professionals and women at the top.”

With the ongoing globalization, it is her opinion that nowadays people are more open-minded to the fact that women can be at the top, especially if you present yourself in a strong manner. “You have to believe in yourself, be self-confident.”

Home- Heart- Love While our eyes shift to the beautiful panorama of Tierra del Sol, I ask her what Aruba means to her.

“Home, heart and love. This is me. Professionally I could never sell something I do not believe in.

You have to have your heart in it. Aruba is also family, my support system, without my family who support me unconditionally, I would not be where I am today.”

up-front with Writer Linda

HOLIDAYS & Happiness  Special Edition 3  October 2016

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Jewelry is like the perfect spice,

it always complements what is already there.

For 31 years, Kenro Jewelers has been making its customers sparkle. Whether it’s gold, diamonds, emeralds or other gemstones, Kenro Jewelers’ extensive collection has something for everyone. “Gold and diamonds are the latest fashion, especially earrings and other types of rings for every occasion”, says Lennie Thijsen, the jewelry store’s proud owner. “Whatever you want, we’ll place your order anywhere in the world. And we have our own goldsmith who knows how to make everything according to size.”

I have enough jewelry, said no one ever. Lennie: “It’s a wonderful profession where sorrow doesn’t exist.

People buy here, because they have something to celebrate. A marriage, a baby, just love … We live through life’s beautiful moments. And we know exactly what to do.” As soon as you come in the store, you are welcomed by their shining collection.

Two experienced and professional coworkers, Jeanette (31 years in the business) and Aurita, show the quality of Kenro as a company. “We’re certified to identify and determine the value of the diamonds we receive from anywhere in the world.

Most of the gold we acquire from Italy, where high quality, modern designs and the latest trends are.”

The customer may view, feel and assess every option, all of this from a comfortable couch in the store. “It’s important to feel as if you were in your own living room. It’s here that you make some important decisions, because it’s an achievement in your life’s journey.”

Discount on gemstones Kenro Jewelers will soon showcase its new collection and therefore it’s offering a 50% discount on a selection of gemstones. “It’s a classic and timeless selection of colored gemstones like emeralds and topaz. These are wonderful items which may also be purchased on a credit basis.” As I’m walking in the store with Lennie, I can see the glittering bracelets, necklaces, earrings and other types of rings. “I started this business in 1985.

Kenro is an abbreviation of my sons Kenneth and Rodney. In those days, I was selling jewelry doorto-door. I did it just for fun, because I’m originally an accountant. Before you know it, we were earning 1 million florins on the streets. We did tremendously

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well.” Over time, there would be 8 establishments.

“I’m drawn to art, to the purity of the gemstones.

It’s a passion of mine, because gemstones, gold, diamonds ... They’re all alive. They need to be washed, they need to be cleaned. The elemental things, that’s what appeals to me.”

Sparkle The customer will feel that passion in Kenro Jewelers. Here everyone may take all of his or her time to look around. “People are no statistic to us.

I love quality and fairness. Here we have the most beautiful jewels for every budget.” Lennie also tells me that she sells Italian bags, her latest passion.

Kenro Jewelers is continuously open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Parking is easy in front of the building located on the main road between Piedra Plat and Santa Cruz. “We invite everyone to visit us and see the sparkle!”

Kenro Jewelers Santa Cruz 115-B T: 297 585-8909 Facebook Kenro Jewelers

HOLIDAYS & Happiness  Special Edition 3  October 2016

Do Something Different It is always a welcoming thing to bring more variety and purpose into your world. Holidays already symbolize an escape from the daily routine, but why not add an extra spice to that tasty flavor. It does not matter whether you are a local or a tourist; Aruba has to offer a range of different activities that create happiness, just because you are doing something different.

Hiking

Arikok National Park has rough hills of volcanic Aruban lava formations, huge rocks of the batholithic quartz-diorite/tonalite and limestone rocks from fossilized coral. The bays (boca’s) on the coast of the park have spectacular sights, adorned with white, sandy beaches and sand dunes. The Conchi or Natural pool is only accessible by foot, horse, ATV or 4x4 vehicle, but is absolutely worth the trip. Historical sites are to be found at cunucu Arikok and Fontein Cave where Indian rock paintings are to be found.

Take a hike in this natural park of 34 square kilometers and enjoy the island’s flora and fauna.

The rangers of the park are available for guided walks, just pick up the phone and make your reservation. Nature is ready for you.

Rumshop Stop

There is no way you can skip a stop at a rum shop during the holidays in Aruba. These open-air bars are scattered throughout the island and give you the real island feel. It seems to be always happy hour at these casual social gathering places where anyone and everyone is invited. Just stop, take a rum and coke or other mixed-drink variation and mingle. Encounter the couleur locale and do as the Arubans do.

Art Fair

Korteweg is the name for a pop-up art fair that takes place every last Friday of the month. In a bohemian ambiance you will find the coolest local art products. Initially the happening took place at the street called Korteweg in Oranjestad, but the location may change. Enjoy the temporary art gallery and embrace the island’s creative waves.

Check Facebook page Korteweg for details.

(SUP)Yoga

It is a fact that yoga practice is a way to relax and strengthen body and mind. The Aruban beaches, the wonderful climate and the cooling winds provide ideal conditions. A special vibe is created

by Stand-Up Paddleboard yoga (SUP). It takes your practice off shore as you will be doing yoga on a paddle board.

With the University of Aruba, #UAchieve!

HOLIDAYS & Happiness  Special Edition 3  October 2016

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HOLIDAYS & Happiness  Special Edition 3  October 2016

TODAY I WILL RIDE

My Bicycle

Did you know there is more than 350 kilometer of biking trails on the island? Whether it is through the countryside or along the coast, even inside the Arikok park, you will enjoy amazing views and feel active at the same time. There are different organizations that offer tours with qualified guides.

Choose to see Aruba from a different point of view!

My Horse

Feel connected with this gracious animal that will carry you through Aruba’s nature. Feel the air, smell the foliage, see nature’s beauty, AND get to travel through it all with your favorite fourlegged friend. Many horse riders will tell you about this feeling of ‘freedom’, so why not give it a shot yourself?

My Segway

A green, personal transportation experience that transforms the way people play and live; make way for the eco-friendly Segway. If you can stand, you can ride. It is just a fun way to move around and experience the island in a playful way.

Professional Real Estate Service, Coldwell Banker Aruba Realty!

The legacy of Integrity

UW MAKELAAR OP ARUBA

Coldwell Banker Aruba Realty Super Food Plaza Tel: (297) 587-6666 Email: info@coldwellbanker.aw Visit our website at www.coldwellbanker.aw for our large selection of homes, land, rental and commercial properties

HOLIDAYS & Happiness  Special Edition 3  October 2016

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Bold Bags

“With each handmade bag, I strive to create a piece of quality craftsmanship and timeless style. All my bags are deeply influenced by traditional nautical styling and the colors of Aruba.” This quote on the website of www.arubahandmade.com says it all. Two man that make honest bags and also accessories. Check out the upcoming collection with typical Caribbean old tile patterns. Amazing! Facebook/Instagram: TANGERINE ARUBA.

Fair Enough Giving can make us happy. The act of giving is often seen as a way to show appreciation, gratitude, and compassion. And giving can strengthen bonds with others. Why not choose for gifts that actually strengthen the environment than? Or gifts that are fair trade. Honest gifts. Use your purchasing power to make a difference in the world. Sounds fair enough?

For Single Moms

Valeria, Daniela and Valentina are young entrepreneur sisters.

Together with their mom they started VADAVAS, a brand of accessories and jewelry designed by them and handcrafted by leading single moms at home. The entire team of moms forms part of the international program, called WOMEN OPPORTUNITY INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATION, which was founded by their own mom, who also used to be a single mom

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HOLIDAYS & Happiness  Special Edition 3  October 2016

Balanced body

Tribu Aruba believes in a holistic approach to wellness - taking into consideration your body, mind AND soul. They provide you with organic products for a healthy body, as well as health-conscious, mind-growing & heart-opening events that aim to contribute to a more conscious and balanced You, so you in turn can contribute to a more conscious and balanced world! Check it out at Facebook: TRIBU ARUBA or call 592-7127.

Pure Chocolate

Chocolate is a sweet indulgence for most of us. But for many cocoa farmers, the reality of the chocolate industry is anything but sweet. More than 70 per cent of the world’s cocoa is grown in tropical West Africa, where over 10 million people are dependent on cocoa farming for their income. The low prices of commodities like cocoa mean that poverty is widespread amongst the cocoa farming communities. Buying fair trade chocolate makes a huge difference to the lives of cocoa farmers and their families around the world.

Enjoy chocolate that makes you feel as good as it tastes!

HOLIDAYS & Happiness ď‚„ Special Edition 3 ď‚„ October 2016

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Apple & Architecture

by The Croes Family front of them so that it doesn’t get too warm. We used as many green building materials as possible within budget, like LED lights, sensors that turn off the lights as soon as you walk away, solar panels on the roof, water-efficient faucets and insulated glass and roof panels.” iStore In 1987, Milo started selling Apple products on the street. “In 1984, I bought my first Apple computer. It was as expensive as my Toyota”, he laughs. The first building he built became the first store selling Apple only computers in Aruba. The name Macintosh was on the facade at the time.

“We were selling computers and we had the network. At the time I just called Steve Jobs. I met him three times in a special private session. I’ve always stayed loyal to Apple, in good times and bad times.” His son confirms that and he describes the moment he and his father went to the a Apple Inc. facilities in Miami. “They knew him and gave him a warm welcome. It was really impressive.”

They own the iStore and they run Croes Architecture Studio (CAST). The Croes family -father, son, daughter and motherare the heart and soul of the company with a commitment to experience, skill and ambition. “I met Steve Jobs three times. At the time when I started, I could just call him.

We’ve always stayed loyal to Apple since the first time I bought an Apple computer in 1984”, says Milo Croes, the father. His son Jouel is an architect who graduated from Delft University of Technology and together they form a succesful partnership with 60 to 80 architectural projects a year, a unique dealership and an exclusive Authorised Apple Service Provider of in Aruba.

It appears the father-son team is a recipe for success. “Jouel is the engineer and architect. I do a little bit of everything when it comes to architecture, like designs, calculations, appraisals,

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supervision and construction. At the iStore we sell Apple products and we’re the only authorized service point.” Mother and daughter are also a part of this company, which means it’s a genuine Aruban family business.

Modern tropic architecture Jouel: “What characterizes our architecture is the modern style. I call it modern tropic. It’s a minimalist style suitable for our tropical climate. Currently there’s a very high demand for it in Aruba. What’s also important to us is to reuse buildings and to use the necessary materials. That’s what I’m specialized in. So I can’t just demolish a building.

I need to see if there’s still something worth in it.”

What’s most important are the customers’ wishes, but CAST also gives them advice on how to make a modern building in a responsable way. They’re the designers of the new MFA building in Paradera, which is unmistakably their style. “Natural lighting by using many sheets of glass, with an awning in

Self-made man At a very early age, Milo had a passion for architecture. “I always carried an architecture manual with me.” He finished school and his studies and after that, his first job was at the Public Department (DOW) at the Architectural Department in 1972. “I left, quit my job at DOW, in August 1981 to start my own business. People thought I was crazy, but I’ve always acted upon my own convictions and passions.” He’s a selfmade man who understands business. “In 1983, I started drawing on the computer and that’s where I started with digital age. Jouel and I began our partnership.” Jouel: “When I was studying in Holland, there was no cloud storage system back then. We used the Apple iDisk to send each other files with drawings.” A few days after his graduation, Jouel flew back to Aruba to start his first workday at the family business. “I had to make a choice. As a matter of fact, I wanted to travel to Spain and Italy to gain some experience.

But my father left me no choice”, he jokes. He doesn’t have any regrets. “On my first workday, I had a blast and I’m still having a blast today.”

istore aruba Caya Ernesto Petronia 67 Oranjestad T: 297 588-2167 www.istorearuba.com/ Facebook IStore Aruba

HOLIDAYS & Happiness  Special Edition 3  October 2016

HOLIDAYS & Happiness  Special Edition 3  October 2016

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Blends & Bites What to do with Christmas? A viral question every year again. While one longs for spending time with the full family, another prefers running off to a tropical island, Aruba for example. Whatever, wherever: you will need a drink and a bite, either to forget last year’s mistakes or just simply for having a blast. Prepare some blends & bites and enjoy your flurry holidays!

Sunny Bubbles

What’s brunch without mimosas? Use bubbly left over from the night prior to concoct this tropical variation of the classic Champagne cocktail. Add more or less grapefruit juice to the sparkler to make the cocktail strong (or weak) enough to your liking.

- 2 tablespoons mango purée, homemade or store-bought - 3 ounces grapefruit juice, homemade or store-bought (preferably 100 % juice) - Sparkling wine, to top Spoon mango purée into a champagne flute, then pour in grapefruit juice. Slowly top with sparkling wine in several increments so it does not bubble over. Stir once with a cocktail spoon, and serve immediately.

Easy Cranberry Margaritas

When happy hour arrives during holidays, take a shortcut and just whip up a batch of cranberry margaritas using store-bought cranberry juice, and freshly squeezed lime juice.

If you want to get fancy and make your own homemade cranberry juice, even better.

- 1 1/2 cups cranberry juice (preferably a 100 % juice) - 3/4 cup fresh lime juice - 3/4 cup tequila - 1/2 cup orange-flavored liqueur, such as Cointreau or Triple Sec - Ice cubes Stir all ingredients together until blended. Serve over ice in sugar- or salt-rimmed glasses, garnished with fresh cranberries and lime wedges if desired.

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HOLIDAYS & Happiness  Special Edition 3  October 2016

Sophisticated Salmon

Smoked Salmon puffed bites— Simple yet sophisticated, they’ll be the perfect companion for your mimosa.

- 1 sheet puff pastry - 1 cup (240ml) cream cheese - 1 egg, beaten - 1 or 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives - Salt and fresh ground pepper - Lemon zest (optional) - 1 package smoked salmon Mix all ingredients except salmon to make the filling. Spread out the puff pastry and make cut-outs with a small cookie cutter (1-inch). Stack two discs together and brush with the beaten egg and bake the puff pastry shells for 15 minutes at 400°F(200°C) until puffed and golden, keep an eye on the oven. Allow to cool for a couple of minutes then cut the shells horizontally to make the sandwiches halves. In the meantime, cut strips of smoked salmon, put a dollop of cream cheese filling and make a small roll. Spread a spoonful of cream mixture over a shell half. Top with a salmon roll, then the top puffed shell. Secure the mini sandwich with a toothpick. Assemble these right before serving because the puff pastry will get soggy if you try to make the night or morning before. Enjoy with champagne!

Strawberries Santa Hat

Who doesn’t love chocolate strawberries? Your perfect desert for Christmas!

- 1 pan of brownies - small strawberries (tops cut off) - 1/2 cup unsalted butter -softened - 3 cups powdered sugar - 3 TB half and half - 1/2 t vanilla Simply bake brownie mix in a mini muffin pan to create perfectly popable bites. Once the brownies have cooled, top each one with an upside-down hulled strawberry. Then, melt white chocolate chips and use a pastry bag to pipe a ring around the base and a small dollop atop each piece of fruit.

Mini Taco Bites

- 2 lbs of boneless skinless chicken breasts - 1 (8 oz) fat free block of cream cheese - 2 cups of your favorite salsa - 1 can of black beans, rinsed - 1 cup of fat free sour cream - 1 can of black olives, sliced - 1 cup of mozzarella cheese - 2 avocados, cut into small pieces - 2 tomatoes, cut into small pieces - 2 bag of Tostitos Scoops In a slow cooker place your chicken on the bottom, then add your block of cream cheese then pour your salsa on top. Put the lid on a cook on low for 6 hours. Once your chicken is cooked all the way through, shred your chicken and mix it really well with the cream cheese and salsa. On 2 sheets place as many Tostito Scoops as you possibly can. It is okay if they touch each other. Next start filling up your mini taco bites. I started with 3 beans on the bottom, add a little meat of meat mixture, a little bit of sour cream, cheese, an olive bit, a tomato bit, and one piece of avocado. You can serve them cold, or broil them for a minute of two in the oven and serve them hot.

Sugar Cookie Martini

Every holiday needs a signature cocktail and this Sugar Cookie Martini is the perfect one for Christmas. Just 3 simple ingredients make a sweet martini that tastes like a frosted sugar cookie. Sweetie, you really cannot ever have enough sugar cookies!

- Glass of Martini - 1 ounce vanilla vodka - 1 ounce amaretto - 2 ounces Frosted Sugar Cookie or Vanilla International Delight Coffee Creamer If desired, coat the rim of your glass with light corn syrup and then dip the rim in sugar.

Place ice in a martini shaker, along with all ingredients. Shake and strain into prepared glass. Serve immediately. If you can’t find the Frosted Sugar Cookie creamer, you can substitute Vanilla. Or, substitute 2 ounces of half and half or whole milk for the creamer, and add a few drops of vanilla extract.

HOLIDAYS & Happiness  Special Edition 3  October 2016

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Coffee with an essence

You’re crazy about coffee, you believe in everything organic and you’re in favor of fair trade. If you mix all these ingredients together, you’ll get a concept, the Coffee Spot concept. To top it off, a couple with a passion for coffee who manages four Coffee Spot establishments and their skillful and kind personnel. “We invite people to the wonderful world of coffee”, says Patricia Mitton, proud owner of Coffee Spot.

There are four Coffee Spot establishments in Aruba: the head office is in Ponton, at the Setar headquarters there is a Coffee Spot, as well as at the Setar Store, and a new establishment has just opened at Centro Medico Botica San Nicolas.

“We brew any kind of coffee you want. Each month we have our seasonals. For example, this month we have Pumpkin Spice & Caramel Apple and on Valentine’s Day we make Cherry & Chocolate. Our bestsellers are the frozen coffees and for the Espresso based drinks, the White Chocolate Mocha, our biggest hit since the beginning. It’s really smooth, slightly sweet, but not too sweet. And, of course, we have our Caramel Nut Latte with hazelnut with caramel”, Patricia tells enthusiastically. During our interview, the coffeemaker is rattling actively and the establishment is full of people. “Our customers are business people as well as people who just want to meet socially. It’s all about enjoying a pure, genuine coffee. Coffee binds!”

Fair trade and organic Genuine coffee means essence. Coffee Spot selects its own coffee from seven distinct areas, from Central America to South America. “I have a private roaster in the States. She looks for the

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coffee beans; she roasts them and then exports them to this place. Everything is fair trade, that’s what we stand for.” The cups in the establishments are made from recycled materials, from top to bottom. To find the perfect coffee for the customers, Patricia served them different kinds of coffee for three weeks. “They could choose which they thought were the best and that’s what we were going for.” The couple’s goal is to roast coffee beans themselves in the future, right here in Aruba. “That would be wonderful: to come into the store and smell the fresh coffee beans roasted by locals.” Besides coffee, Coffee Spot offers a selection of cookies, brownies, sandwiches, veggie smoothies and now, yogurt smoothies.

They also have organic and vegan oatmeal cups.

“We have a lot of regular customers and we apply a customer’s card system. With the order of 15 cups of coffee, you’ll get the next one for free.”

Local coffee crew Patricia is proud of her business and also of her personnel. “Here we’ve got five people working full-time and one person part-time, all Arubans.

They’re great with the customers and I deliberately choose locals for the job. They know the island and they speak the main languages spoken in Aruba.”

The philosophy behind this business is to get people acquainted with real, pure, organic, fair trade coffee. All this makes Coffee Spot unique.

“It is all pure. My heart is with the coffee.” Patricia has several goals. She wants to offer her customers more options, because people are getting more sophisticated when it’s about coffee. “We’re also considering selling coffee beans, because more and more businesses are asking us for these products.

Also we’re thinking of acquiring a coffee truck for special events, such as carnival.”

Wonderful world of coffee It all started back in Vermont where she and her husband were on vacation about 10 years ago. “My husband was studying in the States and I’m from there. We ended up in a very pleasant little coffee shop where they brew the purest coffee. Everything there is organic and fair trade. At the time, there were no businesses in Aruba specializing in coffee.

In the United States and Europe, it already became a trend, but not here in Aruba. This was the beginning of Coffee Spot.” Her husband traveled to Colombia to visit the coffee plantations and he came back excited. They took courses about all things related to coffee, so they were ready to start their business. “We really wanted a social gathering place where we get people acquainted with the wonderful world of coffee. It’s all about the experience, a sense of community.”

Coffee Spot

Kantuna Straat 3-C Ponton, Oranjestad T: 297 588-9970 Facebook: Coffee Spot By Tradewinds Coffee Company Aruba

HOLIDAYS & Happiness  Special Edition 3  October 2016

Happiness on Wheels

He is tough, strong and confident. He takes you on a hike on the beach and shows you the world from another perspective. He makes you forget the fact that you cannot walk and lifts you to another level. The Offroad Wheelchair has arrived on Aruba, and there are big plans to be set out. For all disabled children and adults who dream of spending a day at the beach: the answer is finally here; made possible by this cool guy. See it as a bit of Happiness on Wheels. “Just because everyone deserves to enjoy nature”, states initiator Claudia Janssen of the foundation Offroad Wheelchair Aruba.

“It looks like a quad, because of the same robust character. But it is quiet and leaves only its footsteps in the sand. The electric Offroad Wheelchair is controlled by a joystick, and the person with a functional limitation can control it by himself. Except when they are children, they will have to sit on a

parent’s lap.” Claudia brought one to Aruba as a pilot project and was amazed by the ravishment. “I visited several institutes, who work with people with a functional limitation on the island. Foundations SVGA, Micky’s Foundation, Funari…..keep counting.

At Funari I met Floyd. He is in his late thirties, and was struck by a stroke years ago and has been bedridden and watching TV ever since. When I visited Funari, it was his first visit too, considering the fact we were both thrilled to be there, we bounded.” Claudia decided to take him to spend a Sunday at Boca Grandi in San Nicolas. “We picked him up with the Offroad Wheelchair, loaded on a Monster Truck provided by volunteers, which off course was already very impressive. At the beach we carried him into the wheelchair and let him do his thing, when passing him

by I noticed tears in his eyes. He told me: As a kid I used to come here with a friend on our bikes, every Sunday.” His story touched me and I decided that every time I come to Aruba, I will go to that beach with Floyd.

Free for locals At the moment the foundation is in its pilot phase, looking for sponsors, determining the rental process and developing a policy for the future. “We already have a major supermarket willing to sponsor all rides for locals. They are a vulnerable group; they do not have a lot. For this group just leaving the house is an ordeal, but with the Offroad Wheelchair they have a

HOLIDAYS & Happiness  Special Edition 3  October 2016

purpose.” Tourists can rent the wheelchair, which off course brings new perspective in the so called caring tourism. The goal of the foundation is to have three outlets with each 2 wheelchairs available.

Heart to help The reason for helping people with a functional limitation is very personal to Claudia. “For 4 years I was unable to walk and I experienced how limited your world gets. During my rehabilitation process, I looked for a meaningful way to spend my time, so I came in contact with 2 guys, who rented this type of wheelchair in Zealand, the Netherlands. At first our goal was to have an Offroad Wheelchair on each one of the 4 Zealander islands with beaches. That goal was reached very fast.” Apart from that, there are now 2 offroad wheelchairs on Scheveningen, 4 on Texel, 1 on Vlieland and 1 on Terschelling. Even in Spain and Belgium we are operating, so we are successful. The need to have such a wheelchair on Aruba, was made clear to Claudia by a friend of hers, who is a physical therapist on Aruba. She told her that there are many children on Aruba, with a functional limitation that never went to the beach. “You see, the effect of the wheelchair is larger than you may think.

Off course it is a little bit of happiness at the moment, but it enhances much more than that. It also results in involvement in the community, self-assuredness and being in touch with the elements. Everyone deserves to enjoy life!”

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Delphi Watersports Aruba: Making Waves With their slogan ‘Experience the difference’, they’ve been winning among other things TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence for 3 consecutive years. Delphi Watersports Aruba doesn’t strive to be your average watersports store. It wants to stand out from the rest in terms of service, innovation and quality. “The reviews from TripAdvisor of our coworkers are just extraordinary, but we distinguish ourselves in other areas too.

We invest in safety through our personnel training and our equipment is in perfect condition as well. We support innovation and we customize everything for both individual customers and large groups”, owner Robert Leeuwe explains.

Delphi Watersports offers a broad range of activities.

“With us you can do practically everything. You can go snorkeling from a catamaran or even from a speedboat. Water-skiing, wakeboarding, private boat trips, up to 5 people sitting, lying or kneeling on tubes, banana boat rides, Hobie Cats, windsurfing, fishing, parasailing, clear bottom kayaks, Wave Runners and even more. The air division as we call it is really awesome.” Robert explains about their latest exciting activity: flyboarding. Feel the thrill of

a jet propelled flight. Fly like a superhero or swim like a dolphin. “The Jetovator is the latest cool activity. It’s a jet-powered bike that takes you flying above the water. And there’s the Freedom Flyer, a bucket seat that propels you upwards. It’s designed for U.S. veterans who had their legs amputated, but of course, everyone can use it. What makes us unique is that we carry out these activities from a pontoon boat. Your partner, family and friends can literally sit or stand next to you to also feel the thrill.

They won’t be on the shore, where they would’ve seen you as a little doll in the sky.”

Superteam “We have a great and professional team working for us. We’re proud of this team, because they’re here for us through thick and thin. We invest in our people, because they’re the key to our customers.”

In order for you to work at Delphi Watersports, you first need to receive internal training for about 4 weeks. “Everyone has a navigation license, but that’s only on paper. Practice comes later to gain experience.” Our goal is to offer a safe product, combined with great service with a smile, so our customers go back home with an unforgettable experience. This way we truly make them feel they have visited our “One Happy Island”.

And Aruba Loves Me Delphi Watersports was founded by Grace and Robert Leeuwe in 1992. “As a child I was already hooked on water. From 7 years old, I joined the Sea Scouts in Holland. It’s in my blood; my grandfather was in the long-haul shipping trade.”

The couple started their watersports store with the purchase of an aqua scooter and from there it has grown into the business that it is today.

The main attraction is the Dolphin catamaran, complete with a twisted slide and a jumping rope.

“We sailed her from the U.S. to Aruba.” Young and old can enjoy this catamaran. “A trip to relax, a children’s party, a wedding, you can do it all.

Anyone who books a trip will also receive as a special gift the popular ”I Love Aruba” shirt. At the back of the shirt it says: And Aruba Loves Me! One of the nicest things about working in the watersports industry is that we have the privilege of showing our customers a good time. It is very gratifying to see them unwind and really enjoy themselves, and afterwards leaving the island as friends instead of customers. The entire Delphi Watersports team welcomes people from all over the world to come and experience the difference, whether it is for a thrill seeking, romantic or family activity.”

Delphi Watersports Aruba In front of the Hyatt Regency towel hut on the beach T: 297 733-5688 / 733-5689 / 733-5691 www.delphiwatersports.com info@delphiwatersports.com or delphiwatersports@gmail.com

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HOLIDAYS & Happiness  Special Edition 3  October 2016

SETAR making life easier: MiSETAR and Self Service Kiosks to save you time!

“MiSETAR is our online platform where customers can register, log in, and can then view their invoices and/or make purchases”, explains Vanessa Donata, Online Marketeer at SETAR N.V. Corporate Communications Manager Suzy Maduro is clear about the company’s policy: “We are always looking for ways to make the life of our customers easier.” That is the reason why, next to the online platform, SETAR recently launched three Self Service Kiosks. “These kiosks provide two options: Pay my bill or recharge my prepaid.” The three Kiosks are located at the SETAR Teleshop Seroe Blanco (main office), SETAR Teleshop Irausquin Plein and SETAR Teleshop Palm Beach. In the future, SETAR intends to have these self-service machines available outside office hours and at other SETAR locations as well.

“Both these services save time. Nowadays everybody is busy and if you’re at work you don’t want to spend your lunch break waiting in line.” With MiSETAR there is no need to visit a Teleshop. Vanessa: “It is environmental friendly, safer for clients, and we can also assure that you get your invoices on time.” Currently the biggest purchases in MiSETAR are all kinds of bundles for your phone. Even if you are going on vacation and you’re standing at the airport, you can still buy a roaming bundle without visiting SETAR. “Or if you are already abroad and you do not want to call us internationally, you can buy the roaming bundle online through MiSETAR.” Bills online Another very important feature is that you get your bills online. You first receive an email with a short version of the bill, the reference number and how much you need to pay. “So you can pay online or you can visit a Teleshop to pay at the kiosk or at a cashier. There [at the Kiosk] you scan your bill and pay cash or with a debit card. It’s up to you”, says Vanessa. If you pay at one of our Self Service Kiosks you’ll be done in two to three minutes.

To register for MiSETAR you only need to make one phone call to SETAR’s Call Center. ” You will be requested to send us an email with your picture ID and the email you wish to use for MiSETAR, so that we can set up an account for you. After this, we will be sending you a link, on which once

HOLIDAYS & Happiness  Special Edition 3  October 2016

clicked, you can then choose your username and your password, and you have access to your billing information.” Another possibility is to visit a Teleshop where we have someone dedicated to help you register for MiSETAR; on the SETAR Facebook page you will also find a list stating which Teleshop will have MiSETAR help at each week. “This is very handy especially when you need to register another family member or another person. All you will need is your own ID, an authorization letter or form and the ID of the other person or family member.”

We hope to reach everyone, or convince at least a large percentage of SETAR customers to switch over to Online Only billing through MiSETAR by the first of January 2017. After this date, SETAR will be charging a service fee of Afl. 2,50 per invoice per month to those who wish to continue to receive their invoices by postal mail in hard copy. Customers with one or more 60+ services on their account, will not be charged this service fee. Online Bills via MiSETAR are the safer, more secure and environmentally friendly choice.

SETAR Main office Seroe Blanco 29 A Oranjestad T:297 525-1000 www.setar.aw Facebook: setar

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Where to go 1. Airport 2. Accommodation 3. Accommodation 4. Optician 5. Insurance company 6. Personal loans 7. Retail 8. Restaurant 9. Bottler 10. Online wine/spirits shop 11. Jewelry 12. University 13. Real Estate Agency 14. Distribution Company 15. Apple & Architecture 16. Shopping Mall 17. Communications provider 18. Digital retailer 19. Coffee 20. Fashion Store 21. Watersports 22. Pharmaceutical company 23. Car rental 24. Bank 25. Bank

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Aeropuerto Internacional Reina Beatrix, Wayaca, Oranjestad 524-2424 Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa, J.E. Irausquin Blvd 55, Oranjestad 582-3444 The Old Man and The Sea Ocean Villas, Savaneta 356-A, Savaneta 584-3434 Kok Optica, Caya Betico Croes 27, Oranjestad 583-7237 Ennia, J.E. Irausquin Blvd. 16, Oranjestad 528-2200 Island Finance, Emanstraat 96, Oranjestad 523-4848 The Salamander Group, Cunucu Abou 17, Noord 588-0021 Cilo City Lounge, Rennaissance Marketplace, Oranjestad 588-7996 Tropical Bottling Company, Balashi 62, Santa Cruz 523-6544 www.arubawineclub.com / orders@arubawineclub.com / facebook Aruba Wine Club Kenro Jewelwer, Santa Cruz 115B 585-8909 University of Aruba, J. Irausquinplein 4, Oranjestad 526-2200 Coldwell Banker, J.E. Irausquin Blvd 12, Oranjestad 588-7781 Manrique Capriles, Sabana Blanco 33 D, Oranjestad 583-4036 iStore & CAST, Caya Ernesto Petronia 67, Oranjestad 588-2167 Renaissance Mall & Marketplace, L.G. Smith Blvd. 82, Oranjestad 523-6065 Setar, Main office Seroe Blanco 29 A, Oranjestad 525-1000 Boolchand’s, Havenstraat 25, Oranjestad, 583-0147 Coffee Spot, Kantuna Straat 3-C Ponton, Oranjestad 588-9970 Trash, Sibilius Street 8, Oranjestad 582-6632 Delphi Watersports Aruba, In front of the Hyatt Regency towel hut on the beach 733-5688 Curapharm, 10054 Prospect Ave # R, Santee, Curacao 92071 +1 619-449-7453 Jay’s Car Rental, Sabana Blanco 70-E. Suite 9, Oranjestad 566-6888 Banco di Caribe, Vondellaan 31, Oranjestad 523-2000 CMB, Middenweg, Oranjestad 582-3118

HOLIDAYS & Happiness  Special Edition 3  October 2016

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HOLIDAYS & Happiness  Special Edition 3  October 2016