Wed Jul 10

Aruba Adventure ^Featured

Written by Jason Feinberg
Published in Travel Articles
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The last time I went to Aruba, I left 90-degree weather for 90-degree weather. This time, I left home during a cold spring day. Yet, wouldn’t you know it, the day I arrived in Aruba, New York soared into the 80s. Go figure.

Just 17 miles north of Venezuela in the Caribbean Sea, this Dutch island is a completely different experience from other Caribbean islands. Because of its location, Aruba has a very dry, arid climate and is spared from the typical path of hurricanes. In fact, I think most people are surprised to see cactus in the tropics, let alone the Martian-like landscape of Aruba’s vast desert.

I always recommend taking advantage of a resort’s spa upon your arrival. It will really help get those kinks out after a long flight and let you enjoy your vacation right from the start. I headed over to the Radisson’s Larimar spa. I’m not particular about the massages I get; it’s typically nothing out of the ordinary. But here was something different. I opted for the Aloe Vera and Rum Massage. I think I envisioned getting a massage followed by shots with the masseuse at the bar. I was slightly wrong, but not displeased. The technique included hot black stones, pure liquid aloe and cold rum applied to your skin while you are given a very relaxing massage … relaxing to the point that the masseuse asked, “Are you still with me?” to which I quickly responded, “Of course,” while wondering how long I was asleep (and if I had been snoring!).

That evening we headed to San Nicolas to celebrate the Carubbian Festival, which is held every Thursday night. Carubbian is a small, intimate version of Carnival, complete with festive clothing, parade and street vendors selling local cuisine.

The next morning, I was eager to get an early start. It was time to explore the desert by means of an ATV. We met at a parking garage just a short walk from the hotel and within minutes we were off. We drove along local streets that in about 20 minutes became dirt roads. As we crossed over to the desert, the terrain was a little more challenging but nothing that even the most amateur rider couldn’t handle. While I spent a good part of the day eating dust it was worth it.

Our first stop was Aruba’s natural pool. The first thing you notice is that the water on this side of the island is very rough compared with the virtually still water by the resorts. The natural pool offers protection while allowing you to cool down and take a break from the hot sun. Next we headed over to explore two caves just a short distance away. Here you can see ancient and not-so-ancient drawings from natives and those who have previously explored these bat-laden caverns.

After an all-day excursion of exploring and just plain getting dusty, we stopped over at Boca Prins Restaurant. This tiny open-air restaurant pops out of the desert like an oasis with million dollar views. And with great food and frozen drinks, it makes for the perfect stopover.

One thing you can do on this happy little island is water sports! And there are plenty. We set sail on a 50-foot catamaran, complete with music and cocktails, then anchored and jumped in for some snorkeling and ‘SNUBA.’ SNUBA is similar to SCUBA except the air tank is floating on top of the water and you are tethered by the air hose, which limits you to about a 20-foot dive. You also do not need to be certified. This gave us an opportunity to dive a World War II German supply ship that had exploded. If you’re up to the challenge, there are windsurfing and paddle boarding available also.

With its European influence, Aruba has a vast array of cuisine to offer. Near the hotel area are The Queen restaurant serving authentic Aruban specialties and the Screaming Eagle with its French fusion and South Beach flair. For a more romantic experience that’s a little off the beaten path, head over to The Old Man & the Sea. This open-air restaurant literally sits on the water’s edge. Serving Caribbean seafood, this is the perfect spot for sunset dining.

At night, if you’re a gambler, Aruba has several casinos like the one at the Westin where I stayed, or you can dance the night away at MooMba Beach Bar. If shopping is your thing, there are a number of small markets for souvenirs or if you so desire, the Renaissance Mall carries top luxury retail brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci and more.

Most significant about Aruba is the weather; it’s perfect. The average temperature is in the 80s with a constant, yet deceiving, breeze and rain is hardly ever a thought. Boredom is something else that is hardly ever a thought. Aruba offers endless activities from diving to skydiving, or horseback riding to horsepower. Give it a try when you choose your next adventure.