Cruisin’ in Aruba: Your Cool Guide to Driving on One Happy Island

Palm Beach Aruba

By Caribbean Blogger |

Hey there, road trippers! So, you’re thinking about hitting the road in Aruba? Buckle up ’cause you’re in for a treat! Let me take you on a spin through everything you need to know about driving on this slice of paradise.

Scenic Routes that Make You Go Wow!

First off, picture-perfect scenery is pretty much everywhere in Aruba. But if you’re up for a drive that’ll leave you breathless (in a good way), head up north from Oranjestad towards the California Lighthouse. This coastal road is like a postcard come to life—crystal-clear waters on one side and rugged cliffs on the other. Trust me, your Instagram will thank you.

Aruba Flamigos

Must-Visit Destinations Along the Way

Now, let’s dive deep into the destinations. Whether you’re a beach bum, a culture enthusiast, or an adventure seeker, this island’s got something special for everyone.

1. Eagle Beach and Palm Beach: Paradise Found

Imagine powdery white sands and waters so clear they’re practically see-through. That’s Eagle Beach and Palm Beach for you. These beaches aren’t just any beaches – they’re world-famous for a reason. Eagle Beach boasts the iconic Divi Divi trees bending gracefully in the breeze, while Palm Beach is where the action is with bustling resorts, water sports, especially kitesurfing and windsurfing, and vibrant beach bars. Grab a cocktail, sink your toes into the sand, and let the stress melt away.

Palm Beach

2. San Nicolas: Where Art Meets Culture

For a taste of authentic Aruban culture, make your way to San Nicolas. Known as the “Sunrise City,” this vibrant town on the southern coast is a haven for street art lovers. Wander through the streets adorned with larger-than-life murals that tell stories of Aruba’s history, folklore, and modern-day life. Every corner is a canvas, and every mural bursts with color and local flair. Don’t forget to snap some Insta-worthy shots and immerse yourself in the artistic vibe.

3. Arikok National Park: Nature’s Playground

Ready for some off-road adventure? Arikok National Park is your playground. This rugged wilderness covers almost 20% of the island, offering a diverse landscape of dramatic cliffs, desert-like terrain, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Lace up your hiking boots and explore trails that lead to ancient cave paintings, natural rock formations like the famous Natural Pool (Conchi), and stunning vistas overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Keep your eyes peeled for Aruba’s unique wildlife, including wild donkeys roaming freely. It’s a nature lover’s paradise and a glimpse into Aruba’s untamed beauty.

4. Oranjestad: Where History and Modernity Meet

No trip to Aruba is complete without a visit to its capital, Oranjestad. This colorful city blends colonial charm with a cosmopolitan vibe. Stroll along the waterfront boulevard lined with pastel-hued Dutch colonial buildings, boutique shops, and inviting cafes. Discover landmarks like Fort Zoutman, home to the Historical Museum of Aruba, and indulge in local delicacies at bustling street markets. Dive into the island’s history at the Archaeological Museum or simply people-watch in the lively plaza. Oranjestad is where Aruba’s past and present converge, offering a delightful mix of culture, shopping, and dining.

Free Trolley / Tram ride in Oranjestad

Whether you’re soaking up the sun on Aruba’s best beaches, exploring the vibrant streets of San Nicolas, trekking through Arikok National Park, or immersing yourself in the charm of Oranjestad, each destination paints a unique picture of Aruba’s allure. So, grab your sunglasses, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to discover why they call this place “One Happy Island.” 🌴

Road Rules (No Stress, Just Chill)

Okay, rules of the road. Keep it cool, folks. Drive on the right side—yeah, American style. Speed limits are in km/h, so watch those signs. Seat belts are a must (safety first, right?). Oh, and if you see a roundabout, yield to the left. It’s like a dance, just go with the flow.

Road Conditions: Smooth Sailing

Good news! The roads in Aruba are like butter – smooth and easy. They keep ’em in tip-top shape, so no pothole dodging here. Just be mindful of some one-lane roads in more rural spots, where you might need to share with the occasional local goat.

Tips for the Ultimate Road Trip

Lastly, a few tips for your road trip playlist. Gas up before you hit the road – stations are scattered around. And hydrate! It gets sunny out there.

So, there you have it. Driving in Aruba is like gliding through a dream. Scenic routes? Check. Awesome destinations? Double check. Road rules and conditions? No sweat. Now grab that rental, roll down the windows, and let Aruba work its magic on you. It’s one happy island for a reason – get out there and soak it all in! 🌴🚗

Secure your car rental in St. Croix with Thrifty Aruba, they are listed on CoolestCarib’s Network of 55+ Caribbean websites.

….

About the publisher CoolestCarib

Coolstcarib.com is a website that focuses on Caribbean travel and lifestyle. It features articles, guides, and information about various destinations, activities, and culture across the Caribbean region. The website covers topics such as travel tips, local events, cuisine, attractions, and even practical advice for travelers visiting different Caribbean islands. If you’re planning a trip to the Caribbean or just curious about the region, checking out coolestcarib.com provides you with insights and inspiration for your adventure.

CoolestCarib is very well-suited for local Caribbean businesses, providing them with opportunities to list services such as restaurants, water sport rentals, car rentals, and accommodations. These business listings then appear on more than 55 reputable Caribbean websites.

Please Note:

Caribbean website creation and solutions. gandor.tv creates, hosts, maintains and promotes websites in the Caribbean

Photo Credits:

Palm Beach
Oranjestad
Flamingos

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Feel the Rush Embark on Thrilling Jetski Tours Across the Caribbean Islands

Feel the Rush: Embark on Thrilling Jetski Tours Across the Caribbean Islands

By Caribbean Blogger.

Man on a Jet ski.

Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Brace yourself for the thrill and excitement of jetski tours across the Caribbean Islands. With crystal-clear turquoise waters, stunning landscapes, and a water lover’s paradise, the Caribbean offers the perfect backdrop for an exhilarating jetskiing experience. This blog post will delve into the top destinations that will unleash your adrenaline and provide unique memories; from exploring the inviting natural beauty and hidden gems to immersing yourself in freedom and adventure, jetski tours in the Caribbean promise an unforgettable journey. But it’s not just about the rush; we will also discuss responsible jetskiing, conservation efforts, and complementary activities that will enrich your overall experience. So, fasten your life jacket and get ready to feel the rush!

The Caribbean Islands: A Water Lover’s Paradise

The Caribbean Islands are truly a water lover’s paradise with its crystal-clear turquoise waters and stunning landscapes. This tropical region offers a breathtaking playground for watersports enthusiasts, from powdery white sand beaches to vibrant coral reefs. The warm tropical climate and gentle trade winds create perfect conditions for activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and jetski tours. Whether exploring the vibrant marine life, gliding along the coastlines, or discovering secluded coves and hidden caves, the Caribbean Islands offer endless opportunities for aquatic adventures. The stunning natural beauty and inviting waters make this region a haven for those seeking relaxation and excitement. Get ready to immerse yourself in the paradise of the Caribbean and experience the essence of a water lover’s dream.

Woman snorkeling.
At Caribbean Islands, you can scuba dive, snorkel, jet ski…

Jetski Tours Across the Caribbean Islands: Unleashing the Adventure

Imagine the thrill of gliding across the sparkling Caribbean waters, the wind in your hair, and the adrenaline coursing through your veins. Jetski tours are the ultimate adventure, combining exploration, adrenaline, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a first-timer, jetski tours cater to all skill levels, providing an accessible and affordable way to experience the Caribbean’s breathtaking landscapes. Zip along the coastlines, discover hidden coves and witness the vibrant marine life up close. With each twist and turn, you’ll feel the rush of excitement and an unparalleled connection with the water. Jetski tours are not just a means of transportation; they are an exhilarating journey that unleashes your adventurous spirit and creates lasting memories. So, buckle up, rev up the engine, and embark on an unforgettable Caribbean jetski adventure.

Aruba

Let’s dive into the best Jetski tours across the Caribbean Islands, starting with Aruba. This stunning island showcases picturesque shores, iconic natural bridges, and hidden coves. Experience the thrill of cruising along Aruba’s Palm Beach coastline, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas and a vibrant marine world. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters, Aruba offers the perfect backdrop for an exhilarating jetski adventure. Explore the coastline, discover secluded spots, and feel the rush as you navigate the island’s unique landmarks on your tour. Aruba is a paradise for water enthusiasts, promising an unforgettable experience.

Alt-tag: A small beach in Aruba.
Jetski tours across Caribbean islands aren’t complete without Aruba.

Jamaica

Now let’s set our sights on Jamaica, one of the top Caribbean islands for unforgettable jetski tours. Known for its vibrant waters, Jamaica offers a thrilling adventure for jetski enthusiasts. Glide along the pristine coastlines of Montego Bay, where you’ll be mesmerized by the colorful coral reefs and abundant marine life. Feel the rush as you explore the breathtaking beauty of Dunn’s River Falls, an iconic natural wonder. Jamaica’s unique blend of stunning landscapes, cultural attractions, and warm hospitality creates the perfect backdrop for an exhilarating jetski experience. Whether a beginner or an experienced rider, Jamaica invites you to embrace the excitement and create lifelong memories on its vibrant waters.

Bahamas

Focus is now on the Bahamas, one of the top Caribbean destinations for jetski tours. With its turquoise waters and countless islands to explore, the Bahamas offers an unrivaled adventure. Picture yourself gliding through the pristine beaches of Nassau, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Discover secluded coves and hidden lagoons as you navigate the picturesque Exuma Cays. The Bahamas provides the perfect mix of adventure and tranquility, with opportunities to spot marine life, dive into vibrant coral reefs, and soak in the tropical paradise. Whether you’re seeking heart-pounding excitement or a serene escape, the Bahamas promises an unforgettable jetski experience. Immerse yourself in the stunning surroundings, feel the warm sun on your skin, and create memories that will last a lifetime in this Caribbean jewel.

Preparing for Your Adventure

Before embarking on your jetski adventure, proper preparation is essential for a seamless experience. Pack essential items like sunscreen, a waterproof camera, and a dry bag to protect your belongings. When selecting a reputable jetski tour operator, read reviews and ensure they prioritize safety. Experts at A2B Moving and Storage DC have a valuable tip: If you’re traveling with valuable items or equipment, consider using secure storage options to keep them safe while enjoying your jetski tour. This way, you can have peace of mind knowing your possessions are protected, allowing you to immerse yourself in the adventure’s thrill fully. With careful preparation, you’ll be ready to make the most of your jetski experience in the Caribbean.

Experiencing the Rush: A Day on a Tour

Get ready for a day filled with excitement as you embark on a thrilling jetski tour in the Caribbean. Arriving at the tour location, you’ll be greeted by experienced guides providing a pre-tour briefing, ensuring your safety and understanding of the itinerary. As you set off, the adrenaline begins to surge through your veins. The jetski effortlessly glides through the sparkling waters, giving you freedom and exhilaration. Each stop along the tour unveils stunning landscapes, hidden beaches, and vibrant marine life. As you navigate the twists and turns, the wind whips through your hair, feeling the adrenaline with every wave.

Jet ski in the water.
Come and have the best time ever jetskiing across the Caribbean.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, jetski tours across the Caribbean Islands offer unparalleled adventure and unforgettable experiences. Each destination provides a unique and thrilling ride, from crystal-clear turquoise waters to stunning landscapes. Whether you choose Aruba, Jamaica, or the Bahamas, you’ll be immersed in the Caribbean’s natural beauty while feeling the adrenaline rush on your jetski. These tours offer exploration, excitement, and a deep connection with the water and freedom. You’ll create lifelong memories as you zip along the coastlines, discover hidden coves, and witness vibrant marine life. So, embrace the thrill, pack your essentials, and choose a reputable tour operator to embark on your jetski adventure. The Caribbean Islands await, ready to offer you an experience like no other.

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Images used:
https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-beach-holiday-vacation-33046/
https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-person-swimming-near-school-of-clown-fish-2744596/
https://www.pexels.com/photo/green-trees-near-the-seashore-5874622/
https://www.pexels.com/photo/white-and-black-personal-watercraft-on-body-of-water-50911/

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Moving to the Island of Aruba

By CoolestCarib.com

Rodger's Beach, San Nicolas, Aruba
Rodger’s Beach, San Nicolas, Aruba

If you want to enjoy beautiful white sand beaches, friendly locals, windsurfing, kitesurfing or terrific diving – Aruba is a good place to call home (1). You may have been searching for the perfect spot in paradise to retire – or you may just be looking for adventure in a faraway and tropical country. Either way, Aruba could be the right choice for your next destination.

Though you may have spent months or years looking before deciding to choose Aruba, the process of moving can also take time. You’ll need to prepare yourself beforehand, by packing up your household and selecting a qualified international moving service provider. A key part of preparation is also getting all the required paperwork pulled together, and learning about the various import regulations and duties. Here’s most of what you need to know, in one easy guide.

What Are the Duties?

Sunset in Aruba
Sunset in Aruba

Duties can add a significant amount to the total cost of your move, but fortunately Aruba allows you to be exempted from this expense. To receive import duty exemption, there’s a handful of requirements that you must meet.

First, your primary place of residence must have been outside of Aruba, for a minimum of the last year. This means you must have lived at that address, for a minimum of 185 days in the previous 12 months. You must demonstrate that you lived there for a job, and if not – then show documentation proving you were indeed residing there (not just had an address at that location). Second, you cannot already be a resident of Aruba.

The third requirement is that the belongings you’ll be importing, be used in the same way as in the origin country. For example, if an item was for personal (not commercial) use in your previous residence, it should remain so in Aruba. Fourth, these goods are required to have been used by you, in your residence within your country of origin for at least six months. Fifth, only used goods are eligible for duty exemption (2). Finally, you’re not allowed to sell, let others borrow or even give away these items while in the country (3).

Import Regulations

A Shade Tree on a Beach in Aruba
A Shade Tree on a Beach in Aruba

Customs has some regulations that you must follow, when importing your belongings into the country. There’s a time limit to receive duty exemption, and you can’t import a shipment more than 12 months after you enter Aruba (some sources say 6 months). However, if you need more time, it’s possible that an extension may be granted by the Customs Commissioner (if you request it). You can also only receive duty exemption on two shipments total of household goods (4).

Appeal Process

If your shipment is denied duty exemption by customs, you have one month to appeal this decision (the Commissioner of Customs will make the final determination). If your appeal to the Commissioner of Customs is again denied – you have another month to appeal to the Board of Appeals in Tax Affairs. It appears that the board’s decision will be final (5).

Clearance Process

Aruba requires that you be at the point or port of entry, during the processing of your shipment. Be aware that customs has the full legal authority to examine your shipment, and this could take up to one month to complete. If your shipment violates the import regulations, the Customs Authority can impose fines or disciplinary action. Finally, you’re required to speak with the agent working on your behalf in Aruba, as soon as you enter the country (6).

What Paperwork Will You Need?

Palm Beach, Aruba
Palm Beach, Aruba

When it comes to importing your household belongings, customs requires that you provide the necessary paperwork for your shipment. This includes your passport and Original Bill of Lading (for sea shipments) or Air Waybill (for air shipments). An import declaration and Tax ID from the Tax Service Office are also required (7). An ID card may also be needed, and whether this is a separate document isn’t clear.

For census purposes, you’ll also need a Certificate of Registration from the Population Register in Aruba (customs will want this in triplicate). You’ll also need a Residence Permit from the Directorate of Alien Integration, Policy & Admission (DIMAS for short). A packing list is also mandatory documentation, along with a Household Goods Form and Exemption Declaration Form. A Duty Exemption Request Form (Form C420) should also be provided (8).

Finally, customs will need to see a comprehensive inventory, which includes monetary values for all of your items. This also must be submitted in triplicate, and it should bear your signature and the date (9).

What Are the Duties For Your Vehicle?

Sailboat Off the Coast of Aruba
Sailboat Off the Coast of Aruba

Turning from the importation of your household goods to your vehicle, you may be wondering what duties you’ll pay. You’ll be relieved to discover, that Aruba does allow you to be exempt from import duties – if you meet a single requirement. You must have owned and used the vehicle at your previous primary residence, for a minimum of the last six months.

If your vehicle successfully receives duty exemption, you’re not allowed to sell or transfer ownership of it while in the country. The vehicle also can’t be lent to others, used as security or placed in escrow. Exceptions to these rules are possible, but you must request one from the Commissioner of Customs. You also must give the Technical Department of Customs the Excise Documents for the vehicle – and you’re not guaranteed approval of your request (10).

Import Regulations For Your Vehicle

Oranjestad, Aruba
Oranjestad, Aruba

Aruba is quite open to the importation of all different types of vehicles. If you meet the requirement for exemption covered above, it’s possible to import not only your personal motor vehicle – but also your motorcycle, boat, sports craft or airplane without paying duty. Whether you can bring in more than one of these vehicles at a time isn’t specified, so speak to customs to learn more.

Another regulation imposed by customs, is that your Original Bill of Lading display the engine and chassis numbers, make, model, year and the size of the engine (11). Your shipment can also be examined by customs. Just like with your household goods, this process may take as long as one month. Also, once again if you’re found to be in violation of any regulations – you could face fines or disciplinary action (12).

What Paperwork Is Required For Your Vehicle?

J.E. Irausquin Blvd 59, Oranjestad-West, Aruba
J.E. Irausquin Blvd 59, Oranjestad-West, Aruba

Failure to provide the necessary paperwork, can delay the processing of your shipment – or cause it to be denied entry altogether. Therefore, it’s important that you have the correct documentation. According to knowledgeable international vehicle shipper A1 Auto Transport, Inc. – you’ll need to have your passport, driver’s license and proof of insurance. You’ll also need to show both the title (from the origin country) and a purchase invoice or receipt (13).

Registration from the origin country and insurance documents proving you’ve used the vehicle are also required. Finally, any paperwork that demonstrates you’ve owned the vehicle for the necessary six months to receive duty exemption, should also be provided (14). Typically, the purchase invoice is sufficient for this purpose, but you may choose to give customs additional paperwork – like your maintenance records or receipts.

Lastly, if you’ve never been to Aruba and want to experience this paradise island for a few days or weeks, we suggest you book a room at a resort on the beach and rent a car from a local car agency.

SOURCES:

(1)

https://www.royalresortscaribbean.com/top-ten-reasons-to-visit-aruba.php

(2)

http://www.iamovers.org/ResourcesPublications/CountryGuides.aspx?ItemNumber=3457

(3)

Found on Atlas Int’l “Importing Personal Property Into Aruba” page.

(4)

Ibid.

(5)

http://www.iamovers.org/ResourcesPublications/CountryGuides.aspx?ItemNumber=3457

(6)

Found on Atlas Int’l “Importing Personal Property Into Aruba” page.

(7)

http://www.iamovers.org/ResourcesPublications/CountryGuides.aspx?ItemNumber=3457

(8)

Found on Atlas Int’l “Importing Personal Property Into Aruba” page.

(9)

Ibid.

(10)

http://www.iamovers.org/ResourcesPublications/CountryGuides.aspx?ItemNumber=3457

(11)

Found on Atlas Int’l “Importing Personal Property Into Aruba” page.

(12)

http://www.iamovers.org/ResourcesPublications/CountryGuides.aspx?ItemNumber=3457

(13)

https://www.a1autotransport.com/ship-car-to-aruba/

(14)

https://www.a1autotransport.com/ship-car-to-aruba/


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Future proofing Caribbean tourism

Future proofing Caribbean tourism

The statistics vary, but reliable Caribbean and international entities suggest that the region’s tourism sector is now delivering on average directly and indirectly about 40.6 percent of the Caribbean’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), although, in Aruba, Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, The Bahamas, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), and most overseas territories tourism, the figure is much higher.

Detailed country by country analysis and statistics produced by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) suggest that sustaining the contribution tourism makes has become critical to the long-term economic stability of almost every Caribbean nation other than Trinidad and Tobago, Suriname, and Guyana.

Despite this, little thought has been given to how to future proof the industry as disruptive technologies take their toll, the region’s largely sun, sea and sand high-volume offering becomes subject to multiple global pressures likely to affect traveller sentiment and international competition increases.

Read full article at Caribbean News Global

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Aruba Hi-Winds: A fantasy for windsurfers AND kitesurfers. July 4-8, 2019!

Thanks to their highly favorable wind and water conditions and year-round pleasant weather, Aruba is a windsurfing mecca, and for more than three decades, the sport’s largest amateur competition has been held on Aruba. Along the way, kite boarding (including foiling) was added to the competition events.

The local community embraces this sport, with many of their youth spending afternoons and weekends on the water with the wind in their sails, joined by the adults (who are still kids at heart, after all!) who love to escape the stresses of everyday life for an exhilarating session on the water. In fact, the reigning PWA 14-time World Champion is local darling Sarah-Quita Offringa.

Every year, thousands of vacationers come to the island just to windsurf, while many others have enjoyed their first experience with the sport, learning from one of the several windsurf schools on the island. And just about anyone can learn—a 30-minute session on land to learn the basics, followed by another 30 minutes of instruction in the water will have you sailing on your own the same day!

The Aruba Hi-Winds is dominated by amateur competitors classified by sex and age, but there is prize money to be won!. Race events include slalom and long-distance courses for both windsurfers and kite boarders. All events are held at Fisherman’s Huts.

Even if you are not a competitor, the atmosphere is beach electric and contagious! Not only are the competitions exciting to watch-especially the Kite Big Air competition-but the festivities surrounding the event: live concerts and beach parties, it all creates a fun beach culture to experience! There will also be a Hi-Winds Mountain Bike Race.

The Aruba Hi-Winds will take place at Fisherman’s Huts, just a skip down the beach from The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba.

For schedules, news, sponsors and more comprehensive info go to HiWindsAruba.com

Other related info:

ACCOMMODATION:
Casa Del Mar Beach Resort and Timeshare is located on Eagle Beach, just south of Palm beach. They might still have rooms available: www.CasaDelMar-Aruba.com

CAR RENTALS:
There are many car rental agencies on Aruba, but Thrifty Car Rentals may be one with a  wider variety and more available: www.ThriftyAruba.com

WINDSURFING & KITESURFING LESSONS:
Aruba being the kitesurfing and windsurfing mecca in the Caribbean you will find several windsurf and kitesurf schools on island. Vella Aruba offers it all boasting top international instructors: www.VelaAruba.comFacebooktwitterredditpinterestlinkedinmail

ARUBA Without Plastic Bags since January 2017

Photo taken at Casa Del Mar Resort, Eagle Beach, Aruba.

ARUBA. It’s been nearly a year since January 1, 2017 where all retailers and vendors in Aruba were no longer allowed to distribute nor sell carry-out plastic bags at supermarkets and retail shops.

This then allows tourists and locals alike to bring or buy a re-usable bag or use a carton box to put their groceries in.

Government or city inspectors can fine retailers 10.000 Aruban Guilders (which is about $5715) if they don’t abide by the law to ban plastic bags. This law was created and accepted on 30 June 2016. However, the government gave the community until the new year to adjust to the new rules.

So far this ban and its strategy have been important in a mind- and behavioral change toward increased corporate responsibility from retailers as well as locals and tourists.

You may ask how much of a difference does a plastic bag ban can make to the environment?

It’s estimated one can save 500 to 700 plastic bags from the ocean and landfills each year by bringing your own plastic bags when shopping, according to the Plastic Pollution Coalition. If you consider these facts: Plastic is a substance the earth cannot digest and 8 million tons of plastic enter the world’s oceans every year, we’d all better start refusing single-use plastic.

According to Juliet D. Carvalhal, special coordinator of the Aruban government’s Green Agenda project, “managing waste on islands, especially those heavily dependent on tourism, has been an ongoing challenge. But then again, being an island in itself also presents the community with added motivation to apply concepts of “Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, and Respect” seeing there is limited or practically non-existent access to “Recycling” facilities.”

Reducing not only your use of plastic bags, but managing your trash can also have a big impact if it is carried out daily. Take for example founder of Trash is for Tossers website, Lauren Singer of Brooklyn, New York. Lauren has proved that she could live in one of the biggest cities in the world for 4 years without producing more than one mason jar of waste.

She suggests composting and separating trash effectively, investing in a re-usable water bottle and mason jars and making sure you pack enough bags when you go out shopping to reduce your day-to-day waste. Every little bit helps, especially if everyone does their part.

In the words of the Plastic Pollution Coalition, “let’s make plastic bags go extinct!”

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Aruba – One Happy Island

By Lizpiano.

ARUBA. This week Arubans are celebrating the return of the wind! One of the most beautiful islands you’ll ever see, here the wind never stops blowing in a, mostly, northerly direction. It is advised to wear a hat to prevent your hair from being blown into a wild, vagrant-like style. And make sure you hold on to that hat or tie it with a string to your head, naturally.

Picture of Eagle Beach

But if it weren’t for the wind, this island would be very, very hot. Unless, of course, there are hurricanes in the rest of the Caribbean occupying, so to speak,  all wind space. That is why Arubans have grown to celebrate the wind, make the most of it, they even miss it when it’s gone: “Aruba has been very hot and windstill lately, so now that the breeze has come back, the sails are out!” (Posted by @dushiyoga)

It’s been said that many a serious water sport enthusiast in Aruba have been very close to Venezuela at some point in their lives. That is, because the northerly wind might have taken them off-shore easily, especially if they are kitesurfers. It’s not that far away (about 17 miles), in fact you can see the country from Aruba.

Another good thing about Aruba is that its located at the southern edge of the Caribbean hurricane belt. So it avoids most of the hurricanes and storms that blow through the Caribbean from the Atlantic Ocean each year. So the best time to visit the island is always.

Some businesses listed on CoolestCarib.com include Casa Del Mar Aruba Beach Resort & Timeshare and Vela Aruba for kitesurfing, windsurfing, kayak rentals and lessons.

Vela Aruba

LizpianoLizpiano is a journalist, health lover and piano entertainer/singer who travels the world. She holds a B.A. degree with Music and Psychology as well as an MPhil (Masters) of Journalism. Follow her on Instagram: @lizpiano, Twitter: @thelizpiano,  Facebook: lizpiano.  www.lizpiano.comFacebooktwitterredditpinterestlinkedinmail