Shopping Intl. Aruba 2016 / 2017

2016 / 2017 EDITION FREE Co p y

FA S H I O N

ARUBA BEST SHOPPING D E S T I N AT I O N S

10 Must-Try R E STAU R ANT S

TAKING THE VOW I N T H E M I D S T O F W O WÂ

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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS

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B E AU T Y

DINING

LIFESTYLE

2016-2017 SHOPPING INTL. 1

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CONTENTS ADVERTISERS Alex and Ani 19 Artistic Fine Jewelry 21 Aruba Breeze Condominium 23 Behind the Mask 84-85 Budget Aruba 99 Diamonds International 25 & back cover Dshop 29 Dshop Men 31 Gemani Jewelers 5 & 17 Gemstones International 35 Gold Palace Jewelers 67 Inti 84-85 Little Europe Jewels & Time 112-113 Murano Bijoux and More 69 Omega Boutique inside front cover & 1 Rage Silver 77 Renaissance Mall 71 Renaissance Marketplace 73 Shiva’s Gold & Gems 2-3 & 79 Spa del Sol 81 Super Food 61 Super Food Plaza 65 The Mask 84-85 Tierra del Sol Resort & Golf 110-111 Time Square Jewels & Time 112-113 Tropic-Cas Furniture & Home Decor 83

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WEDDING FEATURE

86 Anywhere

WITH YOU Saying “I Do” in Paradise Wedding Jeweler – Shiva’s Gold & Gems Wedding Photographer – Timeless-Pixx Wedding Tips Wedding Venue – Passions on the Beach

88-89 96-97 92-93 90-91 94-95

• L.G. Smith Blvd. 90-92, The Harbor Boutiques • The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba

297 588 4242 gemani@setarnet.aw www.gemani.com www.charriol.com │ www.facebook.com/CharriolOfficial

Shopping Intl.

CONTENTS RESTAURANTS

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS Alberto Lopez of Behind the Mask, The Mask and Inti Benjamin Petrocchi of Aruhiba Cigars Eliza Lejuez, silkscreen artist and painter (Garry) Girish Alwani of Little Europe and Time Square Nicole Muxi and Veronica Gomez of Blue Residences Philip Merryweather of Philip’s Animal Garden

84-85 46-47 62-63 26-27 32-33 74-75

WRITER’S CORNER One Happy Island by Amie Watson

36

WHERE TO EAT 10

MAPS

Must-Try RESTAURANTS

Barefoot Casa Tua – Ristorante Italiano L.G. Smith’s Steak & Chop House Madame Janette Papiamento Restaurant Passions on the Beach Quinta del Carmen Ricardo’s Restaurant & Bar Tandoor the Indian Grill House Tulip Caribbean Brasserie

14-15

39 41 43 45 49 51 53 55 57 59

Aruba Downtown Oranjestad High-rise Hotels Low-rise Hotels Oranjestad Palm Beach Plaza / Paseo Herencia Mall Weststraat Area

100-101 109 104-105 102-103 107 106 108

Shopping Intl. — P R O D U C T I O N D I R E C TO R : Brigitte Nantel — T R A F F I C C O O R D I N ATO R : Boris Kowka — P R O D U C T I O N C O O R D I N ATO R : Téo Cato Eric Quenneville — PHOTOGRAPHER: Kenneth Theysen — COVER PHOTOGRAPHER: Kenneth Theysen — ADDITIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY: Dreamstime, Menu International, Shopping Intl., Shutterstock, Thinkstock — CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Timothy Dugdale, Amie Watson — PROOFREADER: Eva Cirnu — GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Étienne Jacques DIGITAL IMAGING: Michel Mercure — WEBMASTER: Eric Quenneville — MARKETING DIRECTOR: Mike Power — ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES: Alan Green, Michael Hamilton CIRCULATION DISTRIBUTOR: Fast Delivery Services N.V. — FOR INFORMATION OR COMMENTS, CONTACT THE PUBLISHER: Shopping Intl., 4687 Victoria Avenue, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3W 2M9 – TEL.: (514) 287-3327 — FAX: (514) 287-9303 — E-MAIL: info@shoppingintl.com — WEBSITE: www.shoppingintl.com //////// © COPYRIGHT 2016 SHOPPING INTL. The publisher reserves all rights. The name, concept, page layout and contents of Shopping Intl. shall not be used or reproduced without the express written permission of the publisher. Advertising material and information appearing in Shopping Intl. magazine and in the ads are provided by the advertisers. All advertisements and editorial material are the responsibility of advertisers. The publisher shall not be held responsible for the general information contained in Shopping Intl., nor the advertisements. PRINTED IN CANADA PUBLISHER:

ART DIRECTOR:

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Relax, Refresh, Revive Photography Kenneth Theysen

Sometimes doing nothing at all is the best medicine, especially when you're luxuriating in the beauty of an exotic island.

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Shopping Intl.

SHOP BY PRODUCT ART Behind the Mask

Elisa Lejuez Inti The Mask

84-85 62-63 84-85 84-85

BEACH FURNITURE Super Food Plaza

65 Tropic-Cas Furniture & Home Decor 83 BEACHWEAR Dshop

Painting by Elisa Lejuez

COOKING LESSONS Super Food Plaza

65

GOLF COURSE Tierra del Sol Resort & Golf

COSMETICS Super Food Plaza

65

HANDBAGS Dshop

DECORATION SERVICES Tropic-Cas Furniture & Home Decor 83 DRUGSTORE Super Food Plaza

65

29 FASHION ACCESSORIES Dshop

CAR RENTAL Budget Aruba

99

Dshop Men

29 31

CASINO Renaissance Marketplace

73

FOOD STORE Super Food

61

CIGARS Aruhiba Cigars

46-47

FOOTWEAR Dshop

Dshop Men

29 31

CINEMAS Renaissance Marketplace

73

FURNITURE Tropic-Cas Furniture & Home Decor 83

COFFEE SHOP Super Food Plaza

65

GIFTS AND INTERIOR DECOR Artistic Fine Jewelry

CONDO RENTALS Aruba Breeze Condominium

Azure Beach Residences Blue Residences

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23 32-33 32-33

21 Aruhiba Cigars 46-47 Behind the Mask 84-85 Elisa Lejuez 62-63 Inti 84-85 Murano Bijoux and More 69 Super Food Plaza 65 The Mask 84-85 Tropic-Cas Furniture & Home Decor 83

HEALTH AND BEAUTY Spa del Sol

110-111

29

Super Food Plaza

81 65

HOUSEWARES Super Food Plaza

65

JEWELRY / LOOSE DIAMONDS / PRECIOUS STONES Alex and Ani 19

Artistic Fine Jewelry 21 Diamonds International 25 & back cover Gemani Jewelers 5 & 17 Gemstones International 35 Gold Palace Jewelers 67 Little Europe Jewels & Time 112-113 Murano Bijoux and More 69 Rage Silver 77 Shiva’s Gold & Gems 2-3 & 79 Time Square Jewels & Time 112-113 LEATHER AND ACCESSORIES Dshop

Dshop Men LEATHERWEAR Dshop

Dshop Men

29 31

29 31

The Lacewing Butterfly Photography Kenneth Theysen

Did you know that butterflies can see red, green, and yellow colors?

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Shopping Intl.

SHOP BY PRODUCT LINEN Artistic Fine Jewelry

21

SILVER Rage Silver

LINGERIE Dshop

29

SOUVENIRS Aruhiba Cigars

MASSAGE THERAPY Spa del Sol MEN’S WEAR Dshop Men PHOTOGRAPHER Timeless-Pixx

81

31

92-93

RESTAURANTS Barefoot 39

Casa Tua – Ristorante Italiano L.G. Smith’s Steak & Chop House Madame Janette Papiamento Restaurant Passions on the Beach Quinta del Carmen Ricardo’s Restaurant & Bar Tandoor the Indian Grill House Tulip Caribbean Brasserie SHOES Dshop

Dshop Men SHOPPING MALLS Renaissance Mall

Renaissance Marketplace

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41 43 45 49 51 53 55 57 59

29 31

71 73

Behind the Mask Elisa Lejuez Inti The Mask SPA Spa del Sol SUNGLASSES Rage Silver SUPERMARKET Super Food TOYS Super Food Plaza VACATION RENTALS Aruba Breeze Condominium

Azure Beach Residences Blue Residences WATCHES / TIMEPIECES Artistic Fine Jewelry

77

46-47 84-85 62-63 84-85 84-85

81

77

Omega Boutique inside front cover & 1 Rage Silver 77 Shiva’s Gold & Gems 2-3 & 79 Time Square Jewels & Time 112-113 WEDDING JEWELER Shiva’s Gold & Gems

96-97

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER Timeless-Pixx

92-93

WEDDING VENUE Passions on the Beach

94-95

WINE AND LIQUOR Super Food

Super Food Plaza

61 65

WOMEN’S FASHION Dshop

29

61

65

23 32-33 32-33

21 Diamonds International 25 & back cover Dshop Men 31 Gemani Jewelers 5 & 17 Gold Palace Jewelers 67 Little Europe Jewels & Time 112-113 Murano Bijoux and More 69

The Aruban Burrowing Owl Photography Kenneth Theysen

The Aruban burrowing owl was made one of Aruba’s national symbols in February 2012.

It also appears on Aruba’s postal stamps and currency.

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INTRODUCTION

Explore

EXCITEMENT Shopping is much more than a lifestyle. It's an adventure. That's why you seek brands that meet your design standards and best reflect your style and flair. Shopping Intl. proudly presents the latest edition of its signature guide to luxury retail in Aruba. In this handsome publication you will find exclusive interviews with some of the island's foremost trendsetters, a comprehensive survey of great restaurants and bars, compelling articles on arts and culture, and detailed maps of Aruba's most distinguished shopping hotspots.

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2016-2017 SHOPPING INTL. 13 Photography Kenneth Theysen

Photography Kenneth Theysen

One

HAPPY ISLAND It is important not to forget your sunglasses when you’re cruising on a motorcycle, heading from the western tip of Aruba to the opposite coast – a morning ride, and a comfortable one on the back of a vintage 1983 special anniversary year Harley-Davidson.

— By Amie Watson

T

he constant sunshine kisses your skin while the island’s famous trade winds whip your clothing against your body and echo deep within your helmet.

Arubans are known for being friendly, and local premium cigar maker Benjamin Petrocchi is no exception. He has offered to show me the island, from tip to tail, starting from his cigar shop, Aruhiba Cigars (pages 46–47), near the hotel high-rise area. So here we are, skirting north of the capital city of Oranjestad, weaving our way along dusty roads, past sparse hills, wind-stunted trees, and roadside snack bars.

The island is small. Travelers can easily drive or join tours that take them across to Baby Beach, past the Bushiribana Ruins, a former gold

WRITER'S CORNER

smelter built by the Aruba Island Gold Mining Company in 1825. On the way, they can stop at the northern coastal site of the collapsed Natural Bridge. Though a smaller bridge still stands – a witness to the destruction – the dramatic view of the waves pounding the shore makes it clear why the original bridge days were numbered.

We cut south around Arikok National Park and its 7907 acres of lava, quartz diorite, and limestone geological formations. You need a 4x4, excellent hiking boots, or a horse to discover the natural pool called Conchi, but all the effort will be worth it when you jump from the rocky cliffs into the warm blue water. You can also take the opportunity to explore caves whose thousandyear-old white and terracotta rock paintings by indigenous Caquetío Indians inspired the silk scarves and mixed media work of contemporary artist Elisa Lejuez (pages 62–63). Or, for a true insider’s perspective, join the Facebook group Cave Hunters Aruba, whose members explore the island’s most mysterious nooks and crannies.

Crossing through the southeastern coastal town of San Nicolas, we head to the white sands of Baby Beach, stopping for fresh coconut water at the only roadside stall on the way. (The owner also makes and sells coconut oil, which he recommends for your skin and hair, as well as for cooking). We dip our toes in the ocean before a lunch of fresh-from-the-boat grouper filet and cool Balashi beer (fresh mango smoothies for drivers) at the Rum Reef Bar & Grill, located on the west side of the sheltered beach.

Aruba does not boast the vast geography of Mexico. It does not grow the tropical fruit of Venezuela. And it does not have the North American familiarity of the U.S. Virgin Islands.

But those are not necessarily bad things. The country is officially part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and feels safe, peaceful, and, most importantly, friendly. There is so much to do, from shopping for a one-of-a-kind diamond anniversary bracelet at local jeweler Little Europe (pages 112–113) to snorkeling with tropical fish at the site of a World War II shipwreck, sipping an Aruba Ariba cocktail beachside at Ricardo’s Restaurant & Bar (pages 54–55), or poolside during happy hour at many of the high-rise and low-rise hotels. And even without jumping on the back of a motorcycle with a smiling tobacco farmer and generous new friend, it is no wonder that so many visitors come back year after year. Inside this small island beats a giant heart of gold.

Amie Watson is a Montreal-based food and travel writer.

www.multiculturiosity.com @MissWattson

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The Blue-tailed Emerald Hummingbird Photography Kenneth Theysen

The song is a pleasant twittering, and the call of this species is a pebbly tsip.

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J EW ELRY

ALEX AND ANI DESIGNED TO CONNECT YOU

HIGH-RISE HOTEL AREA | LA HACIENDA | JUAN E. IRASQUIN BLVD. 382 | PALM BEACH MON. TO SAT. 12 NOON - 10 P.M. | SUN. 6 - 10 P.M.

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ALEX AND ANI CREATES MEANINGFUL, ECO-CONSCIOUS JEWELRY AND ACCESSORIES TO POSITIVELY EMPOWER AND CONNECT HUMANITY.

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E X PA N DA B L E C ON C EP T The signature expandable concept is the cornerstone of ALEX AND ANI. This original concept replaces the traditional clasps with a sliding mechanism, making each piece adjustable.

Positive energy is the ALEX AND ANI philosophy and promise, generated through ancient symbols, sustainable materials, and conscious practices. The company empowers individuals to celebrate their unique journey.

FEATURED COLLECTIONS The Aruba Bangle – set like a jewel in an aquamarine sea.

Deep Sea – under the sea everything becomes clear.

www.alexandani.com/aruba

Find out more:

www.facebook.com/AlexandAniAruba | www.instagram.com/Aa_Aruba

Locate us: n˚ 1 on map page 104

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IN A RUBA SINCE 1969

Aruba Lucky Stone

Embroidered Tablecloth, Mats and Runners, Fine Jewelry, Watches, Silver, Porcelain.

L O CAT I O N S :

Lloyd G. Smith Blvd. 90-92 and at the Holiday Inn.

Tel.: (297) 582-3142 | Fax: (297) 583-3336 E-mail: artistic25@yahoo.com | Facebook: www.facebook.com/artisticboutiquearubalg

GI F TS

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J EW ELRY

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LI NEN

Artistic FINE JEWELRY

ARTISTIC BOUTIQUE – MAIN STORE1 THE HARBOR BOUTIQUES LLOYD G. SMITH BLVD. 90-92 | DOWNTOWN ORANJESTAD (297) 582-3142 | FAX (297) 583-3336 MON. TO SAT. 10 A.M. - 6:30 P.M.

HOLIDAY INN RESORT ARUBA – LOBBY2 JUAN IRAUSQUIN BLVD. 230 | NOORD (297) 586-3383 MON. TO THU. 10 A.M. - 7 P.M. FRI. AND SAT. 10 A.M - 8 P.M. | SUN. 10 A.M. – 2 P.M.

Aruba Lucky Stone

Aruba Lucky Stone

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ARTISTIC FINE JEWELRY HAS BEEN SERVING THE ARUBAN COMMUNITY AND VISITORS TO THE ISLAND SINCE 1969,

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offering a selection of the world’s best jewelry and crystal, porcelain figurines, and exquisite linens. They have great prices on brand-name watches such as Citizen, and Skagen. They also carry sapphires, tanzanites, diamonds, and the latest must-have colored gemstones, all set in bracelets, rings, earrings, and pendants. Do not miss their impressive porcelain collection Nao by Lladró featuring animals, angels, and mythical and religious figurines. They’re conveniently located in downtown Oranjestad, across

P R OD U C TS Diamonds, emeralds, pearls, sapphires and tanzanites Embroidered mats, runners and table linens Fine jewelry, bracelets, rings and earrings Gemstones such as fire opal and Aruba Lucky Stone Porcelain figurines Silver and stainless steel jewelry Watches

BR A N D S Aruba Lucky Stone / Citizen Nao by Lladró / Skagen

the Aruba Cruise Terminal in the Harbor Boutiques. www.facebook.com/artisticboutiquearubalg

Find out more:

artistic25@yahoo.com

Locate us: 1. n˚ 1 on map page 109 – 2. n˚2 on map page 104

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A RUBA BR EEZE CONDOMINIUM

Unwind in the comfort and convenience of a home surrounded by great attractions.

J.E. IRAUSQUIN BLVD. 232A | EAGLE BEACH | (297) 732-2788 | U.S.A. SKYPE (978) 732-6426

CO ND O

RENTAL

Aruba Breeze CONDOMINIUM

J.E. IRAUSQUIN BLVD. 232A | EAGLE BEACH | (297) 732-2788 | U.S.A. SKYPE (978) 732-6426

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ARUBA BREEZE CONDOMINIUM IS YOUR PERFECT HOME AWAY FROM HOME.

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Located just steps away from Eagle Beach, one of Aruba’s finest beaches, it allows you to unwind in the comfort and convenience of a home surrounded by great attractions.

One of the island’s most celebrated restaurants, Screaming Eagle, is just steps away.

LI V I N G R OOM Spacious for family of 6 / Pullout couch Satellite plasma T.V. / Air-conditioning Private washroom / Ceiling fan / Telephone

K I TC H EN Refrigerator / Microwave / Range / Oven Large dishwasher / Cabinets Granite countertops / Stainless steel appliances

Other choice restaurants, gift shops and world-class cafés can be found nearby in

BE D R OOM

Oranjestad. Or, if you prefer a five-minute drive, you can visit the Alhambra Shopping

Large master suite / Spacious 2nd bedroom 2 full baths and shower / Private balcony Satellite T.V. / Air-conditioning

Bazaar & Casino Complex. Create your own unforgettable memories in a friendly island paradise, and experience first-hand personalized service by Owen and Willie.

Bon Bini Na Aruba!!! www.arubabreeze.com

Find out more:

info@arubabreeze.com

O N S I TE Concierge / Free WiFi / Gazebo Gym / Lounge chairs / Swimming pools

Locate us: n˚ 1 on map page 102

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J EW ELRY

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WATC HES

Diamonds International DOWNTOWN ORANJESTAD1 LLOYD G. SMITH BLVD. 17 (297) 588-0443 | 1-800-515-3935 MON. TO SAT. 9 A.M. – 6 P.M.

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DIVI ARUBA ALL INCLUSIVE2 JUAN E. IRAUSQUIN BLVD. 45 MON. TO SAT. 9:30 A.M. – 5:30 P.M.

WHAT BEGAN AS A SINGLE STORE IN ST. THOMAS HAS NOW BLOSSOMED INTO A NETWORK OF OVER 130 LOCATIONS.

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Diamonds International is one of the largest jewelry retailers in the world. They have more locations in the Caribbean than any other fine jeweler, and their network stretches from the company’s New York City headquarters into Mexico and as far as Alaska. Throughout their history, Diamonds International has taken pride in providing a comfortable shopping atmosphere and outstanding customer service. Whether enjoying a Caribbean vacation or shopping at home in the United States, thousands of people look to Diamonds International to provide luxury jewelry, elegant timepieces and the finest gemstone products.

Find out more:

www.diamondsinternational.com

THE RITZ-CARLTON, ARUBA3 LLOYD G. SMITH BLVD. 107 | PALM BEACH MON. TO SAT. 10:30 A.M. – 6:30 P.M. SUN. 10 A.M. – 2 P.M.

WATC H ES Hublot Boutique / Breitling / Zenith Blancpain / Bremont / Movado Longines / Hamilton Bulova / Philip Stein Jaquet Droz / Wenger Baume & Mercier

J E W EL RY Ammolite by Korite / Crown of Light® Diamonds Day 2 Night reversible jewelry Forevermark / Ivanka Trump John Hardy / Kabana / Rebecca Roberto Coin / Sara G Tanzanite by Safi Kilima

Locate us: 1. n˚2 on map page 108 – 2. n˚2 on map page 102 – 3. n˚5 on map page 104

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INTERVIEW +

ALL that GLITTERS From panoramic sunsets to handcrafted diamonds, Arubans appreciate beauty. (Garry) Girish Alwani of Little Europe Jewels & Time, an exquisite downtown jewelry store, knows that a diamond eternity band, Asscher-cut earrings, or an elegant Italian gold bracelet are ways for his customers to remember a special moment or meaningful time spent on the island.

— By Amie Watson

I

n such a romantic setting, with so many visitors celebrating engagements, weddings, birthdays, and anniversaries, his family-owned store caters to those who are looking for unique designs, high-quality products, and professional service that goes above and beyond.

For Alwani, the jewelry business is in his blood. He grew up on St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands, where his father ran one of his family’s stores. After school, he would go to the store and sit on the counter while his parents sold jewelry. “My parents would say ‘Come meet this customer, go get this ring sized, go size this watch’”, he remembers. After years of helping out, the business became second nature to him. So, after college in Boston, a year-long internship and time working in California, Maryland, and Pennsylvania, he was drawn back to the Caribbean.

“When I walked into the store on Aruba, everything was already set up. I just had to take over and expand”, he says. And it is just what he did. His shop in Oranjestad is filled with counters of diamond jewelry: bracelets, earrings, engagement rings of all shapes, sizes and one-of-a-kind designs. Natural fancy colored diamonds are displayed next to elegant diamond bracelets, while another counter holds a selection of high-end watches. Well-trained staff help you find just what you are looking for, whether you come with a photo or need some inspiration. “We have people who have worked here

fifteen, twenty years”, says Alwani. “They’re an extension of our family. So when a customer comes in, they’re also treated the same way – like family. Anything they need, we’re there for them.”

The same goes for Time Square Jewels & Time, Alwani’s concept watch and jewelry store in the high-rise hotel area. “It’s kind of a concept watch store, a little more modern, with everything from fashion watches to really high-end”, he says. Located next to the Starbucks in the

Paseo Herencia Mall – the island’s only openair mall – it is hard to miss, as is one of Alwani’s many watches, an 18-karat gold Roger Dubuis.

The Swiss-made chronograph is 100% Geneva Seal, the highest accolade of watch making in the industry. “This is the only brand in the world whose every watch is made of 100% Geneva Seal”, he explains. “I love the dark brown strap. It wasn’t this dark brown when I started wearing it. It was a lot lighter, but its beauty is that it ages as you wear it, and you become one with your watch.”

Alwani also understands that a piece of jewelry can mean a lot to its owner. On his other wrist he wears an 18-karat rose and white gold bracelet that his dad gave him. “I’ve worn it since I went to college”, he says. It was originally copper, but the metal left a green residue on his arm, so he later upgraded it to 18-karat white gold. “I’ve had some customers actually offer to buy the bracelet, but I’ll never sell it, obviously.”

Though still young, Alwani has seen the business change dramatically over the years. “Nowadays people do their research at home”, he says. “They walk in with their cellphone, hold it up and say ‘I’m looking for this one and I need this price. Can you do it?’ If you can do it, they buy it from you, if not, they order it online.”

But buying online has its downsides, including not knowing the origin of the product. Many products online are presented as being new when they are actually refurbished and/or even stolen. There is no watch brand that will ever encourage you to buy online, they

— Little Europe Jewels & Time, Time Square Jewels & Time

Photography Kenneth Theysen

(GARRY) GIRISH ALWANI

warn you not to because they know the risks involved. The risks include not being able to pick up the phone when there’s a problem and easily talk to the person who sold you the item, which is what sets Little Europe Jewels & Time apart, he adds. “Our clients have peace of mind. They buy something, they go home, and if they need anything done, they just call my cellphone and say ‘Garry, I’m having a problem with my watch.’

I send them an email telling them where it needs to go and I follow through the whole process until they get it back. Some people don’t mind paying more for that.”

While his family owns jewelry stores on other Caribbean islands, Alwani says Aruba is unique in that visitors come back year after year. “They come twenty, thirty, forty years. They come with their kids. Their kids like the island and they start coming at a certain age. Their kids will say to their own kids ‘I remember when I came here to the store with my dad. Now I want to take you there.’ We all have that link to the island.”

For some, even hunting for an engagement ring is a family affair. “A lot of parents come and say their son is getting married or engaged and wants them to look for a particular stone”, says Alwani. He finds what they want, emails back and forth with them, sends them the diamond certification, and when they’re satisfied, the parents take the ring home for them.

For him, the cornerstone of a successful

Locations

business is going that extra mile, so customers are happy and don’t forget you. He also understands how Aruba can feel like a dream, and reminding people of that dream can make their day. “Once people leave the island, they go home and they’re bombarded with their daily lives. Their minds are not on vacation anymore. But the moment we call them to wish them happy birthday or happy mother’s day, or follow up on the ring they bought, they remember and they get so happy.

They say ‘I can’t believe you called me! We had such a good time in Aruba!’”

Little Europe Jewels & Time also sets itself apart with a lifetime upgrade and exchange policy. Styles change quickly, Alwani says, and what good is that bracelet sitting in a drawer?

“Five years later, you bring it back with your original receipt and we can exchange it for anything in the store, up to that same value.

Or you can add a little bit extra and upgrade it”.

The other major changes in the business over the years are the styles and the store inventory.

Alwani focuses on diamonds, watches, precious stone jewelry and 14-karat and 18-karat Italian gold rather than on semi-precious stones, silver and fashion items, with a large amount of his store’s real estate devoted to diamond rings. If someone comes in for gold charms, peridot or pearls he sends them down the street to buy them. “But if you want diamonds, in any color, shape and size, come here.

I can show you a vast selection.

There are so many categories of merchandise that you can carry, from white gold to yellow and rose gold, diamonds, color diamonds, from black oxidized gold to Italian. So I’d rather go deeper into certain categories like diamonds. Instead of having 200 rings, I now have eight hundred.”

About 75% of his jewelry is made up of unique designs, he says, and even designing the store’s jewelry is a family affair. “My mom designs a lot of the jewelry. She’s an artist by nature. She’ll draft, color and paint a design, show it to me, and ask what I think. We’ll take that to the jewelry designer who can look at the picture and make a mold. Then we buy the stones and put the piece together. That way it becomes a one-of-a-kind piece.”

The question then becomes ‘How to choose?’

The first piece Alwani gave his wife was a heartshaped, canary yellow diamond engagement ring.

“It was actually more like a promise ring”, he says. “A natural fancy colored diamond is far rarer than a white diamond. Only 15% or less of the total diamonds mined are natural fancy colored diamonds. You have canary yellow and even more rarely red, pink, and blue, naturally colored diamonds. I wanted to give her something that was a little unique.”

Whether or not there’s such a thing as too many diamonds, Alwani has also branched out with flowers and chocolate on special occasions and birthdays. “Chocolate always helps”, he laughs. – Words of wisdom.

LITTLE EUROPE JEWELS & TIME

TIME SQUARE JEWELS & TIME

Downtown Oranjestad | Lloyd G. Smith Blvd. 15

Paseo Herencia Mall | Juan.E. Irausquin Blvd. 382A | Palm Beach

(297) 583-6833 | www.littleeuropearuba.com

(297) 583-6833 | www.timesquarearuba.com

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WO MEN’ S

FASHI O N

Dshop ORANJESTAD | LLOYD G. SMITH BLVD. 124 | (297) 588-1175 | MON. TO THU. 10 A.M. – 7 P.M. | FRI. AND SAT. 10 A.M. – 8 P.M.

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WITH THREE STORES ON ARUBA AND AN ONLINE STORE, DSHOP IS THE GO-TO PLACE FOR THE LATEST IN CARIBBEAN FASHION.

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A leading department store on the island, Dshop offers sophisticated and seductive fashion. For summer 2016, colors are bright, prints are tropical, and designs are revealing. The store also offers a wide selection of accessories including Brazilian leather bags, shoes and designer items. Dshop is your one-stop destination for island fashion.

www.dianleribydshop.com

Find out more:

www.facebook.com/DShopAruba — www.instagram.com/dshoparuba

P R OD U C TS Dresses Jumpsuits / Rompers Blouses / Tops Pants / Shorts Accessories

Locate us: n˚ 3 on map page 102

2016-2017 SHOPPING INTL. 29

MEN’ S

FASHI O N

Dshop Men ORANJESTAD | LLOYD G. SMITH BLVD. 124 | (297) 588-1175 | MON. TO THU. 10 A.M. – 7 P.M. | FRI. AND SAT. 10 A.M. – 8 P.M.

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DSHOP’S MEN’S DEPARTMENT OFFERS THE LATEST IN HIGH-QUALITY MEN’S CLOTHING AND SHOES.

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Dshop Men is known for its high-quality, stylish selection. With renowned brands like Perry Ellis, Kenneth Cole, DKNY, and Penguin, it offers an impressive range of international fashion for men. When it comes to accessories, Dshop Men has the latest leather belts, bags, and wallets. And, with brands like Ferracini and Penguin, the department also features a wide range of casual and formal shoes. So, if men’s fashion is

P R OD U C TS Shirts / Polo shirts Pants / Shorts Suits Shoes Belts Bags Watches / Wallets

what you’re looking for, Dshop Men is the place for you.

www.dianleribydshop.com

Find out more:

www.facebook.com/DShopAruba — www.instagram.com/dshoparuba

Locate us: n˚ 4 on map page 102

2016-2017 SHOPPING INTL. 31

INTERVIEW +

Rhapsody in

AZURE BLUE Aruba offers accommodations for every kind of traveler, from upscale hotels to time-shares and condominium rentals.

— By Amie Watson Each comes with its own perks: a bustling atmosphere, happening happy hours, a full kitchen, living and dining areas, or – most importantly, for most – beach access. But what sets apart the condominiums at Blue Residences – and its brand new, next door sister project, Azure Beach Residences – are the spectacular views, the peaceful setting, and the sunny and spacious luxury units. “Many owners and renters also appreciate the freedom of not having to come for a specific week each year”, says Vice President of Sales and Marketing Nicole Muxi.

N

ot to mention the units’ modern décor, state-of-the-art kitchen appliances, high-speed wi-fi, in-suite washer and dryer, rain showers, comfortable beds, flat screen tv’s, and enough cutlery, bowls, baking dishes and wine glasses for well-appointed dinner parties.

Other highlights include keyless entry (excellent, in case you lose your room card on the beach), a gym, spa, three infinity pools, 24-hour security, a playground, an open-air, casual breakfast and lunch restaurant that turns into a fine-dining venue at night, a nearby grocery store, cleaning staff and reception staff to book excursions and make restaurant reservations. There is even a concierge app for your phone. For owners, there is also the ability to rent units when they are not in Aruba. And unlike other tropical vacation destinations, says Muxi, this works yearround since the island is outside the hurricane belt and has more days of sunshine per year than any other Caribbean island.

“Many of the owners at Oceania and Blue look at this as an investment”, says Muxi. “They like to have a place to come to for vacations, for up to four or five months a year. The rest of the year, we have a company that manages the rentals, and the owners get some money to pay their expenses.”

Azure will be the third property developed by the Pering Group, a family-owned company that has been on Aruba for more than thirteen years. Its initial property, Oceania Resort Residences, located on the white sand Eagle Beach in the low-rise hotel area, was the first condominium project on Aruba. It was so successful that the group soon started building Blue Residences, an oasis located between the low-rise and high-rise hotel areas.

Muxi is a civil engineer by trade and originally worked on Oceania. But when the company started building Blue, she joined sales so that there would be someone on the team better able to answer the potential buyers’ and renters’ technical questions. Now she has stayed on again to work with Azure. Also re-enlisted for Azure are respected architects Enrique Feldman and Armand De Koning, and Juan Ramón Pacheco, who has landscaped high-end properties from the Caribbean to the Hamptons.

From the panoramic site of one of Blue’s split-level penthouse units (three bedrooms, two terraces, a kids’ room, four bathrooms, and an open living, kitchen, and dining room), Muxi and colleague Veronica Gomez answered my questions about their newest project.

What will the Azure condominiums be like?

NM: Azure is going to be one hundred and six

units in two buildings with nine villas in the back. The first building of Azure is open for sale.

The structure of the building and the layout of the units are similar to those of Blue Residences, since the units at Blue have been such a success.

What are the benefits of buying or renting over having a time-share?

The benefit of buying is that it is your unit.

You decide when to come. Most of our clients, owners, renters, they get tired of the time-shares.

They love Aruba but don’t always want to come the same week of the year. This way, if they find a good flight deal, they can come to Aruba and stay in their own unit. Arubans are very friendly and you feel very safe on the island, so compared to other Caribbean islands, visitors tend to come back frequently.

Is it better than a hotel?

We have one couple who comes to Aruba every

year. They used to spend two weeks in a hotel but now they spend one week in a hotel and one week here. The wife, she’s like “Ugh, I have to go to the hotel!” Because after you stay here, you don’t want to have that crowd, the kids, the noise. And

NICOLE MUXI AND VERONICA GOMEZ — Blue Residences

the view is spectacular. Sometimes people who aren’t even staying here come to the grounds to take pictures. Azure is going to be located next door to Blue so it’s going to have a really nice view of Eagle Beach.

VG: Most of the hotels are so crowded that you struggle to get a cabana on the beach, or even to find a lounge chair in the pool area. It’s so busy that it takes time for you to enjoy your vacation. We’re peaceful, but we’re still within walking distance from the high-rise area where all the casinos and nightclubs are. And since the beaches on Aruba are all public, we have some owners who bring their own beach chairs and go early in the morning to Eagle Beach and spend all day over there. We have one hundred twentyfour units at Blue Residences and only sixty of those are in the rental program. So it’s never going to be a hotel that has two hundred rooms.

Do owners have to rent through the company?

If they want to let friends come and stay, they don’t have to pay anything to the rental company.

If they are going to make a profit from renters, they have to go through the company because we have to pay taxes. This way, we also know when the unit is occupied, for security reasons, and we can coordinate with the cleaning company.

Veronica Gomez

Photography Kenneth Theysen

Sales Executive

What will be the differences between Blue and Azure?

NM: Azure is going to have the same or better

amenities, and we’re going to have a Residents Only Club – a room for business or for having your friends over to watch a soccer game. We’re also going to have a poolside snack bar.

VG: Both projects, Blue and Azure, were built so that even ground floor units have an ocean view.

One difference is that Azure will have a hot tub in between the two infinity view pools. Here at Blue, only the ground floor units and the penthouses have hot tubs or jacuzzis included in their units. At Azure, it’s going to be for the whole property.

How do you keep owners and renters happy?

NM: Like a hotel, you have all the amenities that they are looking for. They want to rest, relax and spend time with their families. We get a lot of families and seniors.

What kinds of units do you have?

We have two-bedrooms, three-bedrooms, and five-

bedrooms for sale and rent. And you can lock off the unit, so the two-bedroom can be rented as onebedroom or the three-bedroom as a two-bedroom.

But when you want to come with your brother or your sister’s family, you can come together and share one unit. We also have one-bedrooms at Blue.

Nicole Muxi Vice President of Sales and Marketing

What is your favorite amenity?

NM: It’s not something we built, but the sunset is

the nicest amenity.

VG: I like Frangipane, the morning and afternoon restaurant, and its lunchtime ceviche.

With local grouper, spicy papaya sauce, avocado, tomato salsa, and tortilla chips?

VG: Yes. Neither of you are from Aruba. Why do you love it here?

NM: My husband! I also like the color of the

water. Veronica always makes fun of me, that how many times am I going to say it, but when we go to a room and we see the view, I always say ‘Wow, what a nice view!’ And I think we only had three rain days last year. Most people have been working in tourism here for many years. Most of them speak Dutch, Spanish, Papiamento and English. Plus, the government keeps improving tourism for local people. For example, it has created events every month during the low season. We now have the summer festival, jazz festival, film festival, and high-winds festival.

VG: We have sunny days almost guaranteed, every single day. I love the crystal clear waters and white sands, turquoises, and emeralds. And it’s windy all the time, so it makes for sunny, comfortable weather.

Blue Residences Juan E. Irausquin Blvd. 266 Eagle Beach Location

(297) 528-7000 www.bluearuba.com

2016-2017 SHOPPING INTL. 33

Gemstones

International

JEW ELRY

|

LO OSE

D I AMO NDS

Gemstones International BRICKELL BAY BEACH CLUB & SPA (SHOP 1)1 ACROSS FROM THE HYATT REGENCY ARUBA RESORT JUAN E. IRAUSQUIN BLVD. 370 | PALM BEACH (297) 583-0663 MON. TO SAT. 4 P.M. – 10 P.M.

OROUBO PLAZA (SHOP 103)2 ARUBA BUS STATION WESTSTRAAT 13 | DOWNTOWN ORANJESTAD (297) 583-6985 MON. TO SAT. 10 A.M. – 6 P.M.

FOR OVER 20 YEARS, GEMSTONES INTERNATIONAL’S KNOWLEDGEABLE CONSULTANTS HAVE DELIVERED THE VERY BEST IN DIAMOND AND COLORED STONE JEWELRY.

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All of their jewelry is designed and customized at their own workshops and each piece comes accompanied with a certificate of quality. Gemstones International works hard to make sure that they offer you the perfect piece of jewelry at the right price. They would be delighted to help you find or design the piece you’ve been dreaming of.

DI A MON D S Black diamonds / Blue diamonds Champagne diamonds / Chocolate diamonds Pink diamonds / White diamonds Yellow diamonds

PRECIOUS AND SEMI-PRECIOUS COLORED STONES Amethysts / Citrines / Emeralds / Opals Rubies / Sapphires / Tanzanites / Topazes Tourmalines / And much more…

J E W EL RY Bangles / Gold chains and bracelets / Rings

MEN’S JEWELRY Bracelets / Chains / Rings

www.gemstonesaruba.com

Find out more:

gemstonesaruba@yahoo.com

Locate us: 1. n˚ 8 on map page 104 – 2. n˚ 3 on map page 108

2016-2017 SHOPPING INTL. 35

10 MUST-TRY RESTAURANTS

36 2016-2017 SHOPPING INTL.

ARUBA

WHERE TO

10 Must-Try RESTAURANTS To appreciate the unique history of Aruba, you only have to visit the island's top restaurants. Over the centuries, the world has dropped anchor on Aruba's shores and brought with it an incredible variety of cuisines. These select restaurants offer both authentic and innovative dishes prepared by some of the island's most celebrated chefs. Take your appetite on an adventure that only Aruba can offer.

If you are interested in learning more about the great chefs of Aruba, check out Menu International’s compelling profiles and interviews, in our exclusive island restaurant guide.

2016-2017 SHOPPING INTL. 37

CHEF SPOTLIGHT +

“ For me, the best thing about being a chef is composing flavors and colors, making sure they combine and become a brand new “painting of flavors and textures”, and that the painting looks great too!”

Alwin Van Belzen Chef – Barefoot

✕ RESTAURANT ✕

Barefoot

EL EG A N T DI N I NG I N F LI PF LOPS LLOYD G. SMITH BLVD. 1A | ORANJESTAD | (297) 588-9824 | MON. TO SUN. 5 - 10 P.M.

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ECLECTIC INTERNATIONAL VEGETARIAN

}

Going barefoot means cutting loose, with the ocean sighing in the background, a gentle tropical breeze fluttering the palms and your feet dancing on the white sand. It’s also the perfect way to enjoy great food and friendly professional service. At Barefoot, they have tables right on the beach and, if the elements do not cooperate fully, under a large palapa. Gerco, Luc and the entire Barefoot team look forward to welcoming you here for a fabulous evening in flip-flops! Barefoot is more than a state of mind; it’s a promise of good food and a great time in an alluring tropical ambiance. www.BarefootAruba.com

Find out more:

eat@barefootaruba.com

Locate us: n˚1 on map page 107

2016-2017 SHOPPING INTL. 39

CHEF SPOTLIGHT +

“La cucina non è solo mangiare, è molto di più, la cucina è poesía.” ( “A kitchen is much more than food to eat.

A kitchen is poetry.” ) Roberto Zanardo Chef – Casa Tua Ristorante Italiano

✕ RESTAURANT ✕

Casa Tua

R ISTOR A N TE ITA LI A NO ARAWAK GARDEN1 JUAN E. IRAUSQUIN BLVD. 370 | PALM BEACH (297) 586-8470

RENAISSANCE MARKETPLACE2 DOWNTOWN ORANJESTAD (297) 583-1990

MON. TO SUN. 5 - 11 P.M.

MON. TO SUN. 5 - 11 P.M.

{

ITALIAN PIZZA

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Casa Tua draws a crowd of local and not-so-local folks who can’t seem to get enough of the place and its legendary pizza. There’s almost always a wait to get in, but you won’t mind at all. Casa Tua invites you to take a seat at the bar, order a drink and enjoy the incomparable smell of pizzas cooking in a brick oven, knowing that bliss will be yours soon enough. Sicilian-style thin-crust pizza is their claim to fame, but every dish is delicious. Casa Tua means Your Home in Italian and that’s exactly how you’ll feel dining alfresco in their charming restaurant. Follow your nose to paradise.

Find out more:

www.casatuaaruba.com

Locate us: 1. n˚ 1 on map page 104 – 2. n˚ 1 on map page 109

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CHEF SPOTLIGHT +

“ When I create a dish, I cook with my soul.”

Maximo Ares Chef – L.G. Smith’s Steak & Chop House

✕ RESTAURANT ✕

L.G. Smith’s STE A K & CHOP HOUSE

L.G. SMITH BLVD. 82 | DOWNTOWN ORANJESTAD | (297) 523-6115 / 523-6195 | MON. TO SUN. 5:30 - 11 P.M.

{ AMERICAN STEAKHOUSE } Satisfy your inner carnivore at L.G. Smith’s Steak & Chop House, offering Certified Angus Beef and an extensive selection of international wines. Here you’ll discover Aruba’s very best steaks and a full menu boasting the finest dishes in the Caribbean.

Sit down for dinner in an inviting, comfortable atmosphere while our professional staff caters to your every need. L.G. Smith’s is open nightly for dinner from 5:30 to 11:00 p.m.

For happy hour gatherings or a relaxing nightcap, come to Midnight Grill lounge for more live entertainment and delicious menu available until 6:00 a.m.

Find out more:

www.lgsmiths.com

Locate us: n˚2 on map page 109

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CHEF SPOTLIGHT +

“ Every day is a new challenge, you can live five hundred years as a chef and you’re still just starting.”

Boris Druschkowitsch Chef – Madame Janette

✕ RESTAURANT ✕

Madame Janette CUNUCU ABAO 37 | (297) 587-0184 / 587-4784 | 5:30 - 10 P.M., CLOSED SUN.

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CARIBBEAN EUROPEAN

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Founded in April 1999 by Ramon Helgers and Karsten Gesing, Madame Janette offers fine dining in a legendary atmosphere of brash hospitality. Boris Druschkowitsch, a European master chef trained in old school culinary traditions, creates tasteful and creative dishes with help from his knowledgeable international staff. The menu delivers something for everyone with great flavors and generous portions. Rekindle your love for dining with gusto at a unique restaurant that deliciously embraces local excitement and global flair.

www.madamejanette.com

Find out more:

mjrestaurant@setarnet.aw

Locate us: n˚1 on map page 102

2016-2017 SHOPPING INTL. 45

INTERVIEW +

ARUHIBA CIGARS:

LOCAL & HANDMADE from Seed to Smoke — By Amie Watson

If cigars had sommeliers, Benjamin Petrocchi would be a master. The Aruban-born cigar maker can recognize a brand and its strength just by the smell.

A

fter years of selling imported cigars, he decided to start making his own, locally and organically grown. Now, his cigars are found throughout the island, in his own stores, at gift shops, and even at the airport’s Duty-free Shop.

At his factory, a one-room wooden building north of the city, his brother, sister and a handful of employees select, stuff, and roll fermented tobacco leaves. Petrocchi’s cowboy hats hang next to a well-stocked mahogany bar imported from Spain – there’s a second one in Petrocchi’s shop, next to the windmill on Route 3 – across the room from a cigar pressing machine. Out back, rows of tobacco plants grow in an enclosed area with a sunscreen roof that allows controlled amounts of light to enter, creating different flavors in the leaves.

Despite the hats, the entrepreneur prefers motorcycles to horses (he has at least four – bikes, that is). And despite making high-quality cigars, he does not smoke much anymore – maybe one or two per year, he says. But he used to, which is how he became an expert at blending flavors and started his own line of premium cigars.

He took time from his afternoon of production tasks to talk tobacco rolling, special events, and ways of building a sustainable business on Aruba.

When did you start selling cigars?

When my first store opened in 1999, I was

selling only Cuban cigars. But I knew Cuba was going to open its doors one day, which would eliminate the market. So I started to make my own cigars. I first started selling them around 2007. Most North Americans could already get Cuban cigars in Canada anyway, but now, when they came to Aruba, we could offer them all natural, locally made cigars.

What kinds of cigars do you make?

We have different sizes and tastes: strong,

medium and light. In the light and medium cigars, you don’t feel the nicotine too much. I never make really strong cigars because people don’t like them. The old generation, they want the strong cigars, but not the young generation.

What do your cigars taste like?

My cigars are like Macanudo, a Jamaican cigar

that they don’t make anymore. They’re nice, mild, and smooth.

Are all your cigars handmade?

Yes. We do everything by hand, “from seed to

smoke.” We pick the leaves, we hang them up in the open air and let them dry for about 50 days.

Then we bring them down and wet them. We put them in special bags to ferment for around

Photography Kenneth Theysen

BENJAMIN PETROCCHI — Aruhiba Cigars

six months. Then we deep-freeze everything because they’re moist and we want to kill any bacteria. We then ferment them for another six months. Finally, we select which ones we use for the wrappers, the fillers, and the binders.

How do you roll a perfect cigar?

It takes a lot of practice to get the perfect

balance. If you fill it too much, the cigar will become too packed and not have the right smoke. If you put in too little, it will have just two or three puffs and then it’s gone. We use vegetable glue with the filler and the binder.

Everything has to stay organic, so it’s a very clean cigar. We then put them in the wooden molds, put a cap on and keep them in the presses for one hour. Then come the wrapper, the labels, the bands and the packing in boxes.

Finally, the cigars are ready to smoke.

Do you do cigar-rolling demonstrations for groups or parties?

Yes, I do a lot of weddings. I also do rolling demonstrations at hotels when they have special events.

Why is your product called a premium cigar?

A premium cigar depends on the way you mix

the tobacco and grow the plants. The green

Location

sunscreen above the plants lets in 60 percent of the sunshine, the white one 90 percent, and the dark one only 50 percent. I mix a different kind of compost for each. That makes each section taste different and with those different tobacco types we make a mix. Also, the leaves for the filler, the binder and the wrapper have to be different. The ones for the wrapper get less light and they have to be flexible and without any holes.

Is tobacco native to Aruba?

Yes, I have found it here on the east side of the

island. We have a lot of places where it grows wild when it rains. So I took a plant, grew it and cultivated the seeds. It’s not an easy plant to grow, though. You have to take care of it. It doesn’t grow this nice in the wild. The seeds are so small that you have to spread them all over.

And when the plants come up you have to keep one and destroy the others that are too close, or they’ll fight at the roots. On my farm, in the middle of the island, I have thousands of plants.

Those I grow in the open air. The ones I grow under the roof, I grow mostly for the bind.

Do cigars get better with age?

No. If you keep them at room temperature

and humidity – around 67 percent humidity – they’ll last three, four, five years. 10 or 20 years and they’re going to crack like paper.

Do you have any new projects?

I want to cultivate a plant called Ceda in

Papiamento and make juice from it. It’s like ginseng but you use the leaves, which are very acidic and act like an antibiotic. If you have something on your skin, you apply this plant for one week and it disappears. With only a few leaves you can make a large amount of juice.

And this plant is easy to cultivate. It grows wild.

To do this or to sell my cigars in other places, though, I would need more land and employees.

I’m not an old guy, but I’m 58. If I start new projects, I’d have to work 16 hours a day. And if I do that for 12 years, I’ll be 70. Let me drive a motorcycle and go to the beach. After my workday, I can go to the other side of the island and have myself a beer, you know? I have my freedom.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes. With international law it is one box of

cigars per person, so 25 cigars. I also make boxes of 10, but 25 is standard.

Can you keep up with the demand?

Yes. But I’m not planning to do it bigger. It’s

too much work for me. I have to maintain what I have. If there are people who want to do business here in Aruba, come and see me. I don’t want to do it alone.

ARUHIBA CIGARS

Aruhiba Cigars are available in-store and online by emailing

Juan E. Irausquin Blvd. 330 | Palm Beach

aruhibacigars@gmail.com. Factory tours are also available

(297) 586-7833 | www.aruhibacigars.com

between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

2016-2017 SHOPPING INTL. 47

CHEF SPOTLIGHT +

“ I enjoy adding a local touch to all my dishes, even to the most traditional European dishes. I also like to take everyday local dishes and spin some magic with them.�

Eduardo Ellis Jr. Chef / Owner Papiamento Restaurant

✕ RESTAURANT ✕

Papiamento R E STAU R A N T

WASHINGTON 61, NOORD | (297) 586-4544 / 594-5504 | 6 - 10:30 P.M., CLOSED SUN.

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INTERNATIONAL WITH A CARIBBEAN FLAIR

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Enjoying exceptional food in an enchanting environment with professional attentive staff – that’s a great experience that makes a great memory. Papiamento Restaurant is a family affair which began in 1983 when Eduardo and Lenie Ellis opened the restaurant in downtown Oranjestad. Today, Papiamento is set by a pool in a lush tropical garden adjacent to a 150year old manor. Eduardo, a European-trained head chef, personally oversees the restaurant.

The pride he takes in the wonderful dishes he creates and his attention to detail, along with a professional friendly staff, are the unbeatable ingredients to a superior dining experience.

The Ellis family invite you to dine at Papiamento and cherish your visit for years to come. www.papiamentoaruba.com

Find out more:

papiamento@setarnet.aw | facebook.com/PapiamentoRestaurant

Locate us: n˚2 on map page 104

2016-2017 SHOPPING INTL. 49

CHEF SPOTLIGHT +

“ To work in a kitchen right on a pristine beach with the most beautiful sunsets is a perfect match. My credo is working with fresh local products and creating beautiful Caribbean dishes. That’s why Aruba is One Happy Island.”

Martijn Meijer Chef – Passions on the Beach

✕ RESTAURANT ✕

Passions ON TH E BE ACH

AMSTERDAM MANOR BEACH RESORT | JUAN E. IRAUSQUIN BLVD. 252 | (297) 527-1118 / 527-1129 | MON. TO SUN. 6 - 9:30 P.M.

{ SEAFOOD } What is life without passion? Passions offers the most romantic beach dinner experience in the low- and high-rise hotel area. They’re right on the beach in a romantic setting with dramatically lit torches. Here you can enjoy fresh fish, seafood and meat dishes with your toes in the soft white sand and watch a stunning Aruban sunset. All their dishes are prepared on open fires without the use of electrical appliances. End your dinner with one of their delicious desserts while gazing at the romantic starry sky. Fire up your romance and your appetite at Passions.

www.passions-restaurant-aruba.com

Find out more:

passions@thebeach.aw

Locate us: n˚2 on map page 102

2016-2017 SHOPPING INTL. 51

CHEF SPOTLIGHT +

“ The great thing about being a chef is that we get to create dishes every day and get immediate feedback when people have dined. To be with happy people, and know we as a kitchen team are responsible, is very rewarding!”

Jordi Klomp Chef – Quinta del Carmen

✕ RESTAURANT ✕

Quinta del Carmen BUBALI 119 | (297) 587-7200 | MON. TO SUN. 5 - 10 P.M.

{

INTERNATIONAL SEAFOOD

}

In a recently restored century-old mansion, Quinta del Carmen is cooking in style. Gerco and Luc offer a unique dining experience in the courtyard of this beautifully situated and gorgeously designed historical land house. A short drive from all the major hotels, Carmen hits all the right notes. The synergy between the kitchen and the waitstaff is flawless. Join them for dinner and experience an evening that is sure to be a treasured memory for years to come!

www.QuintaDelCarmen.com

Find out more:

dine@QuintaDelCarmen.com

Locate us: n˚3 on map page 102

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CHEF SPOTLIGHT +

“ My Caribbeaninfluenced dishes are inspired by the Aruban sunset… fresh and beautiful.”

José Cuero Bonilla Chef – Ricardo’s Restaurant & Bar

✕ RESTAURANT ✕

Ricardo’s R E STAU R A N T & B A R

LOCATED AT THE ARUBA BEACH CLUB RESORT | JUAN E. IRAUSQUIN BLVD. 53 | (297) 587-0760 MON. TO SUN. 5 - 10 P.M.

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INTERNATIONAL SEAFOOD & STEAKS

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Ricardo’s Restaurant & Bar is the new culinary sensation in Aruba. The menu, featuring international cuisine executed with a special Aruban twist, has been carefully crafted to please and impress. Resting by the edge of the Caribbean Sea, Ricardo’s serves breakfast, lunch and dinner in a light, comfortable and airy space. Transformed by candlelight in the evening, the restaurant takes on a warm romantic glow, providing the perfect ambiance for that unforgettable dining experience. With spectacular sunsets and great cooking, Ricardo’s is the perfect place for that special occasion, whether you’re a party of six or sixty.

Contact us: ricardos.restaurant.aruba@gmail.com

Locate us: n˚4 on map page 102

2016-2017 SHOPPING INTL. 55

CHEF SPOTLIGHT +

“ We welcome our guests to share our passion for real Indian cuisine. Our kitchen prides itself on authenticity.”

“ Indian cuisine and Aruba are a perfect match. I love to cook dishes that reflect where I came from and where I am.”

Naresh Singh

Bhagwan Singh

Chef – Tandoor the Indian Grill House

Chef – Tandoor the Indian Grill House

✕ RESTAURANT ✕

Tandoor

TH E I N DI A N GR I L L HOUSE SOUTH BEACH CENTRE | PALM BEACH | OPPOSITE THE HILTON (297) 586-0944 | LUNCH BUFFET: SAT. AND SUN. 12 NOON - 3 P.M. | DINNER: MON. TO SUN. 6 - 10 P.M.

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INDIAN VEGETARIAN

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Indian cuisine is a combination of many subtle flavors. Dishes are as varied as the climates of India, and as exotic as its people. Fragrant, pungent and warm spices are delicately blended in meticulous proportions to create their dishes. Spices are prepared fresh each day so each individual dish has its distinctive flavor and aroma. Tandoor’s traditional dishes are rooted in the soil of northern India and the kitchen prepares them here the same way as the chefs would in their own homes. Tandoor’s many delectable dishes may taste indulgent but they also are healthy.

www.tandooraruba.com

Find out more:

tandoor@setarnet.aw

Locate us: n˚3 on map page 104

2016-2017 SHOPPING INTL. 57

CHEF SPOTLIGHT +

“My job is my passion and I have a drive to push myself further every time. Cooking is a mixture of artistry and craft, and I’m always excited to learn new things about food.”

Jerrgétte Erasmus Chef – Tulip Caribbean Brasserie

✕ RESTAURANT ✕

Tulip

CA R I BBE A N BR A S SER I E MVC EAGLE BEACH | JUAN E. IRAUSQUIN BLVD. 240 | EAGLE BEACH | NEXT TO THE CHALET SUISSE RESTAURANT (297) 587-0110 / 587-0113 | MON. TO SUN. 5:30 - 10 P.M.

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CARIBBEAN DUTCH FRENCH

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Serving delicious French bistro-style cuisine with a Caribbean flair at very reasonable prices, that’s Tulip Caribbean Brasserie. Enjoy the soothing tropical breeze while savoring a delicious continental breakfast buffet, lunch or à la carte dinner in their tropical garden or in their cozy indoor dining area. Tulip has a regular menu, daily specials and an alluring wellpriced three-course dinner. There’s something for everybody, dinner at this cozy family-style restaurant is a must while visiting Aruba!

www.tulip-restaurant-aruba.com

Find out more:

tulip@mvceaglebeach.aw

Locate us: n˚5 on map page 102

2016-2017 SHOPPING INTL. 59

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INTERVIEW +

LOVE, ZEN, & ARUBAN-INSPIRED DESIGN WITH ELISA LEJUEZ Silkscreen artist and painter Elisa Lejuez has built her life the same way she creates a piece of art – from scratch, with curiosity and passion.

— By Amie Watson

Her paintings and silk scarves are stunning collages of bright colors, shapes, symbols, words, and numbers. Inspired by her life on Aruba, her handmade silkscreen designs often incorporate the country’s sand beaches, wind, and famous rock paintings in Arikok National Park.

Hints of baby blue waters, green mandalas, and terracotta figures peek out from the folds of her scarves, making them seem like a new scarf each time you wear them.

The internationally renowned artist grew up in the Netherlands with a Dutch father and a mother from Curaçao. She never thought that after completing a Master’s degree in fine arts and textile design in the Netherlands and spending a year building her career in Europe, she would leave it all behind and return to her Caribbean roots. But when she married her Aruban husband, in the Netherlands, they decided to move back to his home, bringing nothing but a 14-year-old dog, two bicycles, their clothes, and a couch.

A

t first, Lejuez went from designing fabrics and traveling the world to waiting tables. But she re-started her career after her manager asked her to decorate the restaurant’s empty walls with her brightly colored paintings. Now her career is flourishing.

She exhibits her work in galleries and museums around the world, sells her paintings and silk scarves at hotels and boutiques throughout Aruba, and teaches art classes for visitors and locals. And her husband’s business (the ubiquitous I Love Aruba brand) has since become a great success.

At her home and studio, surrounded by paintings and memories, she walked me through her collections, inspirations, and plans for the future.

How did you get your start in Aruba?

The restaurant I was working at, Délifrance,

How would you describe your style?

In the beginning it was very abstract. My father

bought some of my paintings, and customers were asking me who the artist was. Then a local magazine did an interview with me and this businessman wanted me to put ten of my large pieces in this big restaurant called Amazônia that was all concrete and had no color inside. My bright blue and green pieces were really popping out. Then some people asked me to do an exhibition in Holland. And after that, I got more and more assignments.

was and is an artist and he painted circles, so that’s my trademark. Later my style started to be more of a combination of my self-made silkscreen prints. Andy Warhol used to work a lot like that and he was a big influence for me. I use acrylic paints, but in the beginning my abstracts also had oil. I also love to work with metals, gold, silver, and copper leaf. And I love to work with things that are found, like records or pieces of books.

Which hotels and buildings exhibit your works now, on Aruba?

The Marriot Hotel has a lot of art pieces, as do

How do you choose the various signs, words, numbers, and symbols that you incorporate into your work?

When I paint, I often play loud music and get

the Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort. Aruba Bank has another one of my pieces.

inspired by the words in a song. And I always

— Silkscreen Artist and Painter

Photography Kenneth Theysen

ELISA LEJUEZ

count in my head before I go to sleep. That’s just me: spontaneous, colors, numbers, words – totally mixed media.

What else inspires your work?

I love to work in themes. My last exhibition

in New York was about Zen Buddhism, about walking your own path in life. So I had some art pieces about labyrinths, I had the Buddha, and I had meditation. Zen is my inspiration in life. Here in Aruba, I go to the beach, I meditate.

I often go to Grapefield Beach, because the houses are so colorful and they are built from a mix of recycled woods. I have one piece, made of driftwood, where almost everything was found on the beach after a storm.

How else does Aruba influence your work?

I did a wall piece in Aruba’s Historic Museum

as part of an exhibit called “Weaving History.”

In Aruba there was a big weaving industry that had to do with the Panama or Aruba hat.

Traditionally, the mother of the family would weave those beautiful hats. In the first room of the exhibition, you see pictures that have to do with that history. In the second room, there’s modern weaving, like a hammock – hamaka, as we call it in Aruba. And the third room features weaving done by four modern artists in Aruba, including myself. I don’t do traditional weaving, but I weave patterns into each other. My piece is

called “We Only Weave the Surface” because you needed the ocean to have your industry of Panama hats and 95% of the ocean is still not discovered. So I tried to show only the surface.

For me, the ocean has different meanings, so I painted one hundred and fifty to two hundred wooden boxes, one by one and placed them like an installation against the wall and on the floor. Every box has a little piece of the ocean: found objects, silkscreen pictures that I took at the beach.

How long will the exhibit be open?

It opened in March 2016 and it will be on for a

year. It is open to the public.

How do you design your silk scarves?

I treat fabric like I’d treat a painting. I use my art

piece on the scarf or I use paper sketches that I made. I used to make tank tops, dresses, skirts, bikinis – very tropical things – but now I’m more into silk scarves, which I sell at T.H. Palm & Company at Playa Linda Beach Resort, the Ritz-Carlton, Aruba and the Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort. The silk is digitally printed in very limited editions. For my first collection, I designed ten scarves and printed ten repeats of each. So there were one hundred scarves in Aruba. After three months, they were already sold out. I did a repeat of the collection and it sold out as well. I just uploaded my latest collection.

It’s going to be about Aruba. I’m really into the native rock paintings that you can find in caves, like the Guadirikiri Cave. You walk in and see all those beautiful paintings in white or terracotta colors. They’re from a thousand years ago and they were the first Caribbean art form expressed by natives who were living here in those days.

Do you offer workshops or special events?

Yes, sometimes. For example, I had this art

dinner in my garden. The tables were full of art, they had a private chef, and I had a private fashion show during the dinner. The company that had asked me to do it was so excited that they asked me to do it again. It gives me a lot of satisfaction to see how people can appreciate working on an art piece. Some people have never held a brush and they really relax and enjoy it.

In the future, we want to do something in my garden where people can meditate and paint.

Have you ever worked with your husband?

Not on art pieces, but we help each other. The

basic thing in our relationship is that we both love art. He used to be a graffiti artist, many years ago, here in Aruba. He was paid by a company to do it with some friends. I dedicated my first art piece to him. I have another one in our kitchen that I dedicated to him after twenty-five years together. It’s our whole life: our three dogs, two kids, his first love letter, the day we met.

Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort | Lloyd G. Smith Blvd. 55B | Eagle Beach T.H. Palm & Company at Playa Linda Beach Resort Locations

Juan E. Irausquin Blvd. 87 | Palm Beach

www.elisalejuez.com

New York City | www.sohotelartspace.com

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14-kt. gold jewelry Black, blue, canary yellow and pink-colored diamonds Bracelets, earrings, necklaces, pendants and rings Emeralds, rubies and sapphires Timepieces

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P R OD U C TS Beads / Decorative accessories / Jewelry Lamps / Murrina pendants Sculptures / Stainless steel jewelry Vases / Watches

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T C O B The Tree Nymph Butterfly Photography Kenneth Theysen

Knowned especially for its presence in butterfly greenhouses and live butterfly expositions.

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THE COLOR OF BALANCE

The Aruban Sunset Photography Kenneth Theysen

Losing yourself to a painted sky and glistening sea, you reflect on the magic of the day and the place.

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INTERVIEW +

Billy Goats & Camels & Mares…

OH MY! Philip Merryweather is pointing at a peacock spreading its wings to reveal a rainbow of feathers. “Look! He’s showing off for the female. See the four of them?”

— By Amie Watson

H

e stops to enjoy the display of dark blue, green, and purple hues while two children stare at the birds in wonder and their parents snap pictures. Philip always loved animals, but building Aruba’s only home for rescued animals was never something he had planned. Now, at Philip’s Animal Garden, he has turned his love for animals into a business, creating a sanctuary for everything from a Shetland pony to camels, spider monkeys, Aruban rattlesnakes, and a red kangaroo. “You rescue one and you have good intentions, then one thing leads to another”, he says.

The young entrepreneur spent the last seven years building the garden himself. It is located on more than eight acres of land north of Oranjestad. Thatched palm leaves top cages for parrots, macaws and prikichi, a Caribbean parakeet. Monkeys swing like circus stars from branch to branch in spacious enclosures. And deer rule their large pen dotted with palm trees, reaching their necks up to chew the low-hanging fronds above. Across a walking path, kids feed carrots to donkeys and laugh as the littlest black baby goat squeezes through the bars of its enclosure again – a short-lived escape as it pushes back through to return to family, water, and good food.

It all started when Philip was a child and rescued and nursed a cat he found abandoned in a plastic bag. Next, there was a snake that a farmer did not want on his land. Then when there was a deer on the loose – he got a call to help. “I knew this guy who helped the animals left over from a zoo that closed”, says Philip. “He told me that if I helped him catch the deer, I could have it.

I was a kid! I had so much energy that you couldn’t tell me that! I asked if he was serious and he told me to start building a place to keep it.”

Sporting shorts, sunglasses, earrings and tattooed arms, Philip looks more like an alligator wrangler than a softhearted animal rescuer. In fact, he’s both. He has gotten good at catching the garden’s caiman, a small crocodile, when he has to move it from its cage. “It’s the same as a dog”, he says. “I catch dogs for all the organizations in Aruba.” Though he has never been bitten by the caiman, the dogs are another story. “I’ve been kicked, bitten, stung – you name it! But if you’re afraid to jump on an animal to catch it, you’re never going to catch it.”

Now he has established himself as the person to call when an animal is on the loose.

His Instagram feed is full of photos and stories of animal tracking adventures, including a trip to Curaçao (complete with tranquilizer gun) to help find a mountain lion and a 1:00 a.m. ostrich rescue mission on Aruba, when a few of them escaped from the farm near the Bushiribana Ruins. “People have to stop saying ‘what if something happens?’ If everyone had that mentality, we’d still be making fire with rocks”, he says. “But you know what the funny thing is? If electricity touches me, mamma mia!

I’ll scream for a month.”

Philip’s business mantra is equally brave: “Just go for it!” In 2008, he registered as a charitable foundation and in 2009 he opened his garden to the public. He was 25-yearsold. Growing up, he always thought he’d own a restaurant, because his family worked in hospitality. “But I was the black sheep in

Photography Kenneth Theysen

PHILIP MERRYWEATHER — Philip’s Animal Garden

town”, he says (no pun intended), so instead, he started making connections with veterinarians, companies, and schools to sponsor animals and help build his dream.

He’s learned a lot over the years, like the fact that his male goats fight to challenge the alpha male during breeding season and that spitting alpacas do not spit on visitors. “I’ve seen them spit at each other, though, especially when they’re eating and a camel tries to steal their food.” He’s also learned that the more he ignores the monkeys when he’s feeding them or cleaning their enclosure, the more they respect him. “The one from Curaçao, they wanted to put him to sleep because he was aggressive, but he’s not – that’s just a defense. I go inside the enclosure and ignore him and he comes to me.

Maybe one monkey will pull your glasses and run away, but you ignore it and then next time he just touches your glasses and he starts touching your forehead and starts being friendly.

Let them be, and they’ll walk next to you.”

While he says he does not have a favorite animal, he talks about his horses the way parents talk about their children. “The female, Samantha, she is the nicest to people”, he says,

Location

“but the black one, whenever she wants to eat, everybody has to move out of the way.”

Philip feels the same compassion for his Aruban rattlesnakes, an endangered species that’s a vital part of the local ecosystem. In their cages at the garden, the snakes flick their tongues at onlookers and slowly wind through their glassed cage. Now when locals find them on their property, they would call Philip to take them instead of killing them. “Every animal has its role. There has to be a prey and a predator. The rattlesnakes eat small mice. You can’t have no animals eating mice because we’ll have an infestation within a month or two.”

Other local animals on site include owls, pelicans, and a host of exotic birds. “We try to set all native animals free”, says Philip, “but there are some we cannot. In the rehab area there’s a Troupial, a local bird with a broken wing, who cannot heal but can live in captivity perfectly well. We’ve had another one with only one wing, for two-and-a-half years.”

Whether the bird would want to leave if it could is another story. At the garden they get high-quality food, which is kept in a clean,

24-hour air-conditioned room called the animals’ cafeteria. The peacocks roam freely.

“They won’t go”, says Philip, “because there’s no food or water anywhere else.”

While there are always more animals to rescue, Philip’s goal is now to maintain what he already has. “Every three or four enclosures that I build, I have to go back to the first one and fix it up. In Aruba we have a lot of salt, so we have to constantly sand the enclosures down and paint them again. Before I built the big spider monkey enclosure, I was going to use that money for solar panels. I spoke to a local company, Wernet Solar Solutions, and got a quote. I had 90 percent of the money saved up, and I had to cut off the whole deal because I had to build an enclosure for a monkey. What was I going to do? Then I had to start at zero again and I know that with the money I’m saving now I’m going to build another enclosure for the other monkey.”

As Philip looks around his garden at what he has built, you can tell that he does not regret his decision. “You have to have your priorities.”

Philip’s Animal Garden

For more information about visiting Philip’s Animal Garden,

Alto Vista 116 | Noord

donating or sponsoring an animal, please call, email, or consult

(297) 593-5363 | www.philipsanimalgarden.com

any hotel concierge. The garden is open Monday to Friday 9:00 a.m.

info@philipsanimalgarden.com

to 5:00 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

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S I LV E R

Rage Silver RENAISSANCE MARKETPLACE1 LLOYD G. SMITH BLVD. 9 | DOWNTOWN ORANJESTAD (297) 588-6262 MON. TO SAT. 10 A.M. – 8 P.M.

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RAGE SILVER IS A LUXURY EMPORIUM THAT HAS ALWAYS BEEN AT THE FOREFRONT OF STERLING SILVER JEWELRY.

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P R OD U C TS Body piercing jewelry / Gold-plated jewelry Stainless steel jewelry / Sterling silver jewelry Sunglasses / Watches

BR A N D S Alan K. Millefiori / Beck / Buddha to Buddha Chamilia / Chrysalis Kids / Creative Brazil Crislu / Guess Jewelery / Inox Mi Moneda / Ti Sento / Uno de 50

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Locate us: 1. n˚ 4 on map page 109 – 2. n˚ 1 on map page 106

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A O F

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Schotlandstraat 85-1 Oranjestad Aruba (297) 588-7712

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INTERVIEW +

Rediscovering a

2000-YEAR-OLD LOST ART The masks line the walls – faces decorated with stripes and flowers streamlined with hues of crimson, muted blue, and golden yellow.

The expressions they wear are countless – staring, frowning, and grinning – their mischievous eyes waiting to tell a story.

— By Amie Watson

S

urrounded by masks, the shelves of owner and designer Alberto Lopez’s art shop showcase intricately carved animals, figures, gods, totems, vases, murals, and stunning jewelry.

But the masks that give the store its name are what surprise shoppers the most. Rather than wandering into a typical souvenir shop, visitors find themselves in a one-of-a-kind art shop.

The Mask – though unassuming from the outside – is a store full of handmade, brightly colored and glossy carved faces wearing looks of surprise, cunning, deceit, fear, joy, and laughter, that invite visitors to give in to their curiosity.

Though the striking handmade masks appear painted, they are actually coated with naturally colored tree bud resin, stretched paper thin and applied sheet by sheet to carved wooden molds. This craftsmanship is part of the history and culture known as Mopa Mopa art, says Alberto.

Alberto’s daughter Ximena loves seeing people’s surprise when they first see the impressive masks. “A lot of people tell us that this is the only store in Aruba that sells very unique and traditional art”, she says. “Their mouths drop open because they can’t believe this exists.” She and her father play a large role in supporting this more than 2000-year-old tradition of the Quillacinga tribe on the borders of Colombia and Ecuador. Their family is part of this culture and they work with a community of 17 families – almost 70 people in total – to support this art. Despite being conquered and having much of the tribe’s art given to the Incas and later sent to Europe by the Spanish, the Quillacingas managed to keep their art form alive and continue to pass it down from generation to generation.

Photography Kenneth Theysen

ALBERTO LOPEZ — Owner and Designer, The Mask and Inti

As part of their efforts to support the tribe and its traditions, Alberto and Ximena also teach people about the tribe’s history and its mask-making process. The ancient coloring process starts with the handpicked buds from the Mopa Mopa trees found in the area surrounding the tribe’s community. Artists place the buds in boiling water until they soften into balls of resin. Then they either chew or mill the balls for 12 to 14 minutes, though chewing is preferred since saliva helps smoothen the membrane. Once the resin has a more pliable consistency, the artist adds colors obtained from plants and minerals. Next, two artists stretch the ribbon with their hands and mouths into rectangular sheets that resemble wet paper. Then they apply the sticky colored sheet to the wooden mold. Finally, when it is dry,

the artist uses a knife to carve the desired shapes and patterns – suns, moons, animals, fruits, and flowers – onto the mask surface. But this is only one layer of color, so they will repeat the entire process many times over, for a single mask.

“NO PIECE OF ART IS THE SAME, THEY ARE ALL UNIQUE AND ORIGINAL”, says Alberto. Many also carry mythological symbolism; for example, in the Quillacinga’s religion, the Sun and Moon are worshipped as gods, he says. The Sun is supposed to bring good fortune, and in the tribe’s art it is depicted with eight tips representing fertility, eternity,

happiness, health, victory, wealth, power, and kindness. Alberto thinks that there is always a reason why customers are drawn to a specific piece. Whatever the attraction, the piece is meant for them, he says.

Besides keeping this unique artistic tradition alive, supporting it also helps raise the living standards of the Quillacinga artists’ families. The community has become stronger, healthier, and more educated. “Now they not only have the opportunity to grow as a community,” says Ximena, “but their children can go to school. It is not like before, when the young people didn’t know how to write.

Now with this, the children can get more opportunities. It is so important.”

The Mask | Paseo Herencia Mall, Suite C017 | (297) 586-2900 Inti | Royal Plaza Mall, Suite 109 (2nd Floor) | (297) 582-7862 Locations

art@setarnet.aw

Behind the Mask | Royal Plaza Mall, Suite 40 (1st Floor) | (297) 583-3011

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ARUBA

WEDDINGS

Anywhere

WITH YOU If you’ve ever dreamed of a tropical island wedding drenched in sunshine, you’ve been dreaming of Aruba. With its photo-ready background of sandy beaches, palm trees and crystal clear water reaching up into a heart-melting horizon, Aruba can make that dream come true.

Photography Kenneth Theysen

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WEDDING +

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Saying “I do”

IN PARADISE There’s no better place than this small, friendly island of endless sunshine to celebrate a day you’ll remember forever, whether that means a casual beachside service or an elegant fairytale come to life.

Either way, it will be hard to forget your first sunset together as a golden sky adds streaks of red and purple to its canvas and the beach becomes a starlit dance floor.

— By Amie Watson

T

hanks to short-sleeve temperatures year-round and a welcome trade wind to cool the hottest days, Aruba’s climate is one of its biggest draws as a wedding destination. Whether you schedule your wedding in fall, winter, spring or summer, you won’t have to worry about backup plans in case of rain. Instead, you can concentrate on being in love – and falling in love with the place. A sense of tranquility sets in as you adjust to the relaxed pace of island time and enjoy the feeling of your bare feet sinking into warm sand while gentle ocean waves kiss the tips of your toes.

Since a destination wedding means you won’t be on-site yourself for all the preparations, you might be worried about everything being under control. But Aruba is a multilingual country, which helps minimizes miscommunication and makes the planning process smoother. And while there are only 100,000 residents, the island’s history as a Dutch colony has turned it into a melting pot of welcoming, friendly people who move effortlessly between four languages in a single conversation: English, Spanish, Dutch and the local language Papiamento.

Photography Kenneth Theysen

WEDDING

For the wedding dinner, the world is your oyster. The country’s multiculturalism also means you can find everything from freshly caught local seafood to high-quality South American beef, European cheeses and an international selection of wines. Whether you want Caribbean lobster and champagne for 100 guests or an open-air grill and beach bar for 20, resorts and restaurants are equipped with all the supplies you’ll need. From flowers and elegant decorations to special hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and handcrafted wedding cakes, your venue’s wedding planner will know how to handle it. They also know how to accommodate

large groups, guests with dietary restrictions and special requests for kids’ menus – so you can concentrate on the important things, like enjoying the day’s special moments.

With so much of the work taken care of, the most difficult part of your planning might be choosing the best beach location. Some opt for vast expanses of white sand, while smaller ceremonies nestle themselves into the island’s hidden coves and more intimate beaches. Others choose chartered cruises, piers, churches, coconut groves, breathtaking lookouts, golf clubs, pirate lagoons or private islands. If you have time to spare, a pre-wedding

trip to scout locations is a great excuse for a vacation (and a trial honeymoon). If not, your wedding planner can provide detailed photos and information to help you choose the best option, so that the surprise upon arrival is a welcome one.

It’s easy to get caught up in planning your dream wedding, but Aruba takes the stress out of what’s supposed to be a celebration, because in the end the most important part is sharing the day with friends and family. Staring into one of Aruba’s stunning sunsets as you say “I do” is just the topping on the cake.

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Photography Kenneth Theysen

WEDDING

Wedding

TIPS

— By Amie Watson

DREAM BIG

ACTIVE VACATIONING

Don’t be afraid to ask for what will make your special day unforgettable, whether that’s red rose petals scattered along a sandy aisle with white silk flowing in the breeze, or multi-tiered towers of Caribbean seafood and a midnight chocolate buffet. Want a string quartet or salsa band on your private cruise? On Aruba, all that can be arranged.

It can be difficult to convince a group of busy people to take time from schedules to attend a destination wedding. But with windsurfing, paddle boarding, golf courses, snorkeling trips to shipwrecks and dives to coralcoated reefs, Aruba is a location where guests will want to spend a few extra days. Best of all, it’s easy to book activities for kids and adults upon arrival, rather than having to book them in advance. Aruba also boasts an active nightlife, with casinos and nightly entertainment. The best part is that when all you want to do is relax, you’re never far from a beach.

ENJOY THE VIEW Don’t forget to stop for a minute to take in the baby blue ocean and listen to the waves lapping gently on some of the world’s best beaches. It’s easy to get caught up in the details of the big day, but one of the main reasons why couples choose Aruba for their weddings is that it is a tropical paradise. So relax and take it all in.

ACCOMMODATE EVERYONE Aruba has accommodations to suit all your guests’ needs. While having everyone stay at the same hotel or resort can make the trip more fun (think a wading pool for younger kids or a happening happy hour for adults), if some guests prefer a condo, a villa or a different hotel, don’t worry! Nothing on Aruba is far away. Many of the hotels are grouped on the island’s west coast near the low-rise hotel area called Eagle Beach or the high-rise area a little further north, called Palm. If the wedding isn’t walking distance for all of your guests, it will rarely be more than a short drive or taxi ride away.

DOT YOUR I’S AND CROSS YOUR T’S With so many couples choosing Aruba for its pristine beaches, ideal climate and well-run tourism industry, the local government keeps the legal side of getting married on the island relatively simple. Couples require copies of their birth certificates and passports as well as a single status report (also called a certificate of no impediment). The country’s tourism website provides all necessary information on religious and civil ceremonies, including a note that according to Dutch law, boat captains can’t officiate a wedding unless the country under which their ship is registered has allowed them to do so. So if you’re planning on getting married at sea, you might need to BYO-officiate!

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WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

LIVE LIFE TO THE FULLEST

and enjoy while doing it!

Run by experienced photographer Kenneth Theysen, Timeless-Pixx is your professional wedding photographer in Aruba.

T

hey offer honeymoon photography, engagement photography, and trashthe-dress photography. Timeless-Pixx serves you anywhere in Aruba, as well as other destinations. No matter how big or small your special day is, they offer you the same love, feel, and excitement you most deserve.

Their promise is to make your wedding photographs unique and special, working hard to capture your feelings and emotions. Those moments will be treasured forever in stunning digital images and albums of the highest quality.

Timeless-Pixx also offers baby and toddler photography, food photography, and lifestyle portrait photography services.

Kenneth Theysen and Team Timeless-Pixx

KENNETH THEYSEN — Owner and Photographer, Timeless-Pixx

(297) 592-7417 kennyrtheysen@live.com

www.timeless-pixx.com

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WEDDING VENUE

Let them be your

WEDDING VENUE So you have chosen Aruba as the paradise to hold your wedding. The next step is to decide where in paradise to host your special day. Passions on the Beach is the perfect venue to meet your every expectation.

T

hey offer an amazing location for a private celebration, barefoot in the sand with a spectacular sunset. The perfect place for weddings, anniversaries, rehearsal dinners, birthdays, or any other special occasion. They also cater to special requests, whatever they might be, and can accommodate up to 500 guests.

– Exotic hors d’oeuvres – Champagne dinners – Three-, four- and five-course dinners – Custom menus and buffets – Live music – After-dinner dance and party – Discrete and attentive professional service

PASSIONS ON THE BEACH

— Restaurant

Passions on the Beach Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort Location

Juan E. Irausquin Blvd. 252

www.passions-restaurant-aruba.com passions@thebeach.aw

(297) 527-1100

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WEDDING JEWELER

If you don’t know jewelry…

…KNOW YOUR JEWELER! A wedding is a very memorable and special occasion! It is the day when two people, two souls, and two worlds are united into one universe. On this occasion every detail needs to suit and match perfectly, with jewelry being no exception!

SHIVA’S GOLD & GEMS — Jeweler

E

xperienced consultants from Shiva’s Gold & Gems will guide you through an array of traditional and unconventional designs for every taste, and will also offer you the most attractive prices. Should you have in mind an original custom-made design, they can assist in making that as well. They have just one goal in mind: to make your wedding dreams the most beautiful reality!

Shiva’s Gold & Gems is a branch of a family of fine jewelry stores in operation throughout the Caribbean. These third generation jewelers have dedicated themselves to becoming the largest diamond retailer in the islands. Their extensive network allows them to buy in large volume directly from their sources in Israel and Amsterdam, thus eliminating middleman commissions and passing the extra savings on to the customers, a wonderful bonus when

Locations

it comes to planning a wedding! Their stores offer a wide range of certified diamonds, from .01 pointer to 10 carats in any shape and size.

They host a vast collection of diamonds, precious stones, fine Swiss timepieces, and award-winning designer jewelry, which can become perfect accessories for the occasion, as well as perfect gifts for newly weds. Their exotic, handmade creations of jewelry will lead you into a magical world, where precious gems and fine stones blend into infinity. A world where beauty and imagination reign supreme.

Shiva’s Gold and Gems are St Maarten & Aruba’s only jewelry boutiques that have qualified for membership to the “Leading Jewelers of the World.” This is an elite group of no more than 100 very prestigious and exclusive jewelry retail stores worldwide, committed to providing an extraordinary

experience, outstanding service, and most importantly, an atmosphere beyond anything imaginable.

Shiva’s Gold & Gems are pioneers in the watch trade as well. They proudly showcase the world’s finest and most prestigious timepieces. A connoisseur’s delight, indulge in brands such as Audemars Piguet, Bomberg, Chanel, Carl F. Bucherer, Corum, Ebel, Guess and Guess Collection, Harry Winston, Hublot, IWC, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Longines, Michele, Mont Blanc, Mulco, Panerai, Piaget, Swarovski, Tissot, Vacheron Constantin, and Zenith.

You will be able to rest easy about your purchase knowing that the Alwani family have committed over 3 generations of impeccable quality, accuracy, craftsmanship, quality control, and service to every little detail and every piece of jewelry offered in their stores.

Palm Beach Plaza Mall

Royal Plaza Mall

Palm Beach

Oranjestad

(297) 586-2526

(297) 583-4077

www.shivasjewelers.com shivasaruba@setarnet.aw

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Q U A L I T Y V E H I C L E S | P I C K- U P A N D D R O P - O F F C O U R T E O U S A N D F R I E N D LY S E R V I C E

Call:

(297) 582-8600

www.budgetaruba.com info@budgetaruba.com

C A R R E N TA L

Budget A RU BA

CAMACURI 101 ORANJESTAD (297) 582-8600 MON. TO SUN. 8 A.M. – 6 P.M.

AIRPORT2 QUEEN BEATRIX INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT MON. TO SUN. 6 A.M. – 10 P.M.

BUDGET RENT-A-CAR ARUBA HAS BEEN SERVING VISITORS, LOCAL RESIDENTS, BUSINESSES, AND GOVERNMENT AGENCIES FOR THE PAST 49 YEARS.

{

HIGH-RISE HOTELS3 | ARAWAK GARDEN JUAN E. IRAUSQUIN BLVD. 370 PALM BEACH MON. TO SUN. 8 A.M. – 9 P.M.

}

V E HI C L E T Y P ES Air-conditioned / Automatic transmission Compact / Economy / Intermediate Minivans / S.U.V.’s / 4WD’s

Along with their courteous and friendly service, they offer quality vehicles from top

FL EET

manufacturers at very reasonable rates. Budget makes renting a vehicle as easy as

BYD / Hyundai Accent Hyundai H1 Minivan / Mitsubishi Attrage Misubishi Lancer / Nissan March Nissan Versa / Toyota RAV4 4-door Jeep Wrangler

possible. Whatever your car rental needs, they will do their best to help you drive Aruba in comfort and hassle-free.

www.budgetaruba.com

Find out more:

info@budgetaruba.com

Locate us: 1. n˚1 on map page 100 – 2. n˚2 on map page 100 – 3. n˚4 on map page 104

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LOCATIONS

Aruba MAP

ADVERTISERS

GOLF COURSES

1 Budget Aruba (Main Office) 99 2 Budget Aruba 99

1 Aruba Golf Club 2 Tierra del Sol Resort & Golf

(Queen Beatrix International Airport)

3 Philip’s Animal Garden 4 Tierra del Sol Resort & Golf

HOTEL 1 Tierra del Sol Resort & Golf

BEACHES 1 Arashi Beach 2 Baby Beach 3 Boca Andicuri 4 Boca Catalina 5 Boca Grandi 6 Boca Prins 7 Dos Playa 8 Hadicurari 9 Malmok 10 Rodger’s Beach

74-75 110-111

PLACES OF INTEREST 1 Alto Vista Chapel 2 Ayo Diorite Boulders 3 Balashi Gold Smelter Ruins 4 Boca Prins Sand Dunes 5 Bushiribana Gold Smelter Ruins 6 California Lighthouse / California Sand Dunes 7 Casibari Diorite Boulders 8 Fontein Caves 9 Franse Pas 10 Guadirikiri Caves 11 Hooiberg 12 Lourdes Grotto 13 Natural Bridge 14 Natural Pool 15 Seroe Crystal

GAS STATION

INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

LIGHTHOUSE

ROUNDABOUT

100 2016-2017 SHOPPING INTL.

EXCELLENT RATES — BUDGET RENT A CAR ARUBA — Tel.: (297) 582-8600 Fax: (297) 582-7212 info@budgetaruba.com www.budgetaruba.com

6 1

4 4

2

Druif

1

Urirama

9

Boca Grandi

8 1

SEE HIGH-RISE HOTELS MAP PAGES 104-105

Wariruri

3

5 15 3 13

Paradera

SEE LOW-RISE HOTELS MAP PAGES 102-103

Boca Daimari

2

7

14 11

SEE ORANJESTAD MAP PAGE 107

1

Santa Cruz

7 6

4

2

8

Queen Beatrix Intl. Airport

Simeon Antonio

De Palm Island

10

ARIKOK NATIONAL PARK

9 3

Pos Chiquito

Rincon

1

Savaneta

12

San Nicolas

5

Seroe Colorado 10 2

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LOCATIONS

Low-Rise Hotels MAP

BEACHES

ADVERTISERS 1 Aruba Breeze Condominium 23 2 Diamonds International 25 & back cover (Divi Aruba All Inclusive)

3 Dshop 4 Dshop Men 5 E lisa Lejuez

1 Druif Beach 2 Eagle Beach 3 Manchebo Beach

29 31 62-63

GOLF COURSE

(Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort)

6 Spa del Sol

81

(Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa)

7 Super Food 8 Super Food Plaza 9 Tropic-Cas Furniture & Home Decor

61 65 83

1 The Links at Divi Aruba

PLACE OF INTEREST 1 Bubali Bird Sanctuary

RESTAURANTS 1 Madame Janette 2 Passions on the Beach

45 51

GAS STATION

53 55

HOSPITAL

59

MARSHLAND

(Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort)

3 Quinta del Carmen 4 Ricardo’s Restaurant & Bar (Aruba Beach Club Resort)

5 Tulip Caribbean Brasserie (MVC Eagle Beach)

ROUNDABOUT HOTELS 1 Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort 2 Aruba Beach Club Resort 3 Aruba Blue Village 4 Blue Residences 5 Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort 6 Casa del Mar Beach Resort 7 Costa Linda Beach Resort 8 Divi Aruba All Inclusive 9 Divi Village Golf & Beach Resort 10 La Cabana Beach Resort and Casino 11 La Quinta Beach Resort 12 Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa 13 MVC Eagle Beach 14 Oceania Resort Residences 15 Paradise Beach Villas 16 Perle d’Or 17 Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive 18 Tropicana Aruba Resort & Casino

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TOURIST INFORMATION

TO HIGH-RISE HOTELS

TO HIGH-RISE HOTELS

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EXCELLENT RATES — BUDGET RENT A CAR ARUBA — Tel.: (297) 582-8600 Fax: (297) 582-7212 info@budgetaruba.com www.budgetaruba.com

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LOCATIONS

High-Rise Hotels MAP

ADVERTISERS

HOTELS

1 Alex and Ani (La Hacienda) 19 2 Artistic Fine Jewelry 21 (Holiday Inn Resort Aruba)

3 Aruhiba Cigars 46-47 4 Budget Aruba (Arawak Garden) 99 5 Diamonds International 25 & back cover (The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba)

6 Elisa Lejuez (Playa Linda Beach Resort) 62-63 7 Gemani Jewelers 5 & 17 (The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba)

8 Gemstones International

35

(Brickell Bay Beach Club & Spa)

9 Gold Palace Jewelers (La Hacienda)

67

RESTAURANTS 1 Casa Tua – Ristorante Italiano 41 (Arawak Garden) 2 Papiamento Restaurant 49 3 Tandoor the Indian Grill House 57 (South Beach Centre)

PLACES OF INTEREST 1 Bubali Bird Sanctuary 2 De Olde Molen 3 St. Anna Roman Catholic Church

1 Brickell Bay Beach Club & Spa 2 Caribbean Palm Village Resort 3 Coconut Inn 4 Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort 5 Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino 6 Holiday Inn Resort Aruba 7 Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort Spa and Casino 8 Marriott Aruba Resort & Stellaris Casino 9 Marriott’s Aruba Ocean Club 10 Marriott’s Aruba Surf Club 11 Occidental Grand Aruba Resort 12 Playa Linda Beach Resort 13 Riu Palace Antillas 14 Riu Palace Aruba 15 The Mill Resort & Suites 16 The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba

BEACHES 1 Hadicurari Beach 2 Palm Beach

BANK

GAS STATION

MARSHLAND

PARKING

POLICE STATION

ROUNDABOUT

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TO CALIFORNIA LIGHTHOUSE

1

TO CALIFORNIA LIGHTHOUSE

5 16

7

8

EXCELLENT RATES — BUDGET RENT A CAR ARUBA — Tel.: (297) 582-8600 Fax: (297) 582-7212 info@budgetaruba.com www.budgetaruba.com

9

10

C a y a Fr a n c i s c o D. F

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SEE PALM BEACH PLAZA / PASEO HERENCIA MALL MAP PAGE 106 9 12

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ARAWAK GARDEN

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TO DOWNTOWN ORANJESTAD

LOCATIONS

Palm Beach Plaza / Paseo Herencia Mall

ENLARGEMENT OF AREA ON MAP PAGE 105

MAP ADVERTISERS

Palm Beach Plaza

Paseo Herencia Mall 77 2-3 & 79

E

3 Murano Bijoux & More 4 The Mask 5 Time Square Jewels & Time

PALM BEACH PLAZA

1

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2

5

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1 Rage Silver 2 Shiva’s Gold & Gems

69 84-85 112-113

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TO SANTA CRUZ

1

1

PAARDEN BAY 1

Oranjestad MAP

RESTAURANT 1 Barefoot

TO SAN NICOLAS

BANK 39

BUS TERMINAL HOTEL 1 Talk of the Town

PLACES OF INTEREST 1 Beth Israël Synagogue 2 St. Franciscus Roman Catholic Church 3 Water Tower

GAS STATION

PARK

PARKING

POLICE STATION

POST OFFICE

ROUNDABOUT

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LOCATIONS

ENLARGEMENT OF AREA ON MAP PAGE 109

Weststraat Area MAP

ADVERTISERS

1 Behind the Mask (Royal Plaza) 84-85 2 Diamonds International 25 & back cover 3 Gemstones International (Oroubo Plaza) 35 4 Gold Palace Jewelers 67

5 Inti (Royal Plaza) 84-85 6 Little Europe Jewels & Time 112-113 7 Shiva’s Gold & Gems (Royal Plaza) 2-3 & 79

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EXCELLENT RATES — BUDGET RENT A CAR ARUBA — Tel.: (297) 582-8600 Fax: (297) 582-7212 info@budgetaruba.com www.budgetaruba.com

5

YACHT BASIN

RENAISSANCE MARKETPLACE

Oranjestra at

3 8

1

TO SAN NICOLAS 7

4 1

Downtown Oranjestad

2

MAP

ADVERTISERS 1 Artistic Fine Jewelry

PLACES OF INTEREST 21

3 Omega Boutique inside front cover & 1 (The Harbor Boutiques) 4 Rage Silver 77 (Renaissance Marketplace)

1 Fort Zoutman 2 Fruit Market 3 Government Offices 4 National Archaeological Museum Aruba 5 Parliament Building 6 Protestant Church 7 Wilhelminapark 8 Willem III Tower

RESTAURANTS

HOTELS

(The Harbor Boutiques)

2 Gemani Jewelers

5 & 17

(The Harbor Boutiques)

1 Casa Tua – Ristorante Italiano (Renaissance Marketplace) 2 L.G. Smith’s Steak & Chop House (Renaissance Marina Hotel)

41 43

1 Renaissance Marina Hotel 2 Renaissance Ocean Suites

BANK

BUS TERMINAL

PARK

PARKING

TAXI

TOURIST INFORMATION

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