The New Baby Beach Waterfront Promenade

A new waterfront promenade will be on the rise in the near future at Baby Beach.

The developments are part of the Seroe Colorado Masterplan, which is a Government renovation project to upgrade the beaches and area located southeast of the island, better known as Seroe Colorado.

Here’s a model view of the beach and surroundings, after project is complete..




The waterfront promenade is part of the second phase of construction in the Seroe Colorado Masterplan.

It will feature a new parking lot for beachgoers to conveniently park their cars, two new food & beverage kiosks and public restrooms. The kiosks will offer Aruban traditional foods and drinks.

Two new multifunctional courts will be built for beach sports – volley ball, tennis, soccer, basketball.

New vegetation will be planted, including palm trees to provide beachgoers with natural shade.

According to the Tourism Minister, the new waterfront promenade at Baby Beach will start in October and take up to 6 months to complete.

A 40 room boutique hotel is also slated to be constructed next to rum reef, after the second phase of renovation project at Baby Beach is completed.



Welcome To The Future Oranjestad Port City

The former cargo terminal in Oranjestad will be transformed into a new leisure and upscale residential area.

This new residential area is named, Port City.

Port City was developed by Aruba Port Authority (APA), the company that manages Aruba’s harbor and cruise port.

APA developed the port city and has approval from the Aruban Government to move forward with the development starting 2023.

Port City will be constructed at the former cargo terminal area in Oranjestad.

The infrastructure project has 180.000 square meters of land for development. This includes the former container harbor area, paardenbaai, and bushiri beach. 

Here’s a view of what port city will look like in the future, designed by OZ Architects.



Port City will overlook the Caribbean sea and welcome cruise ships to Aruba, while connecting the harbor front to Oranjestad.

It will feature public parks, residences, retail stores and offices.

The project is a collaboration between Aruba Ports Authority and Port of Amsterdam international. The future port city is estimated to cost $78.000.000 million dollars to develop.



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JetBlue Suspends Flights From Fort Lauderdale + Newark To Aruba

JetBlue recently cancelled over 37 routes from their flight schedule, including flights from Newark (EWR) to Aruba. 

The decision by the New York Based airline hits two airports the hardest, which are Fort Lauderdale (FLL) and Newark (EWR). 

Both airports are important hubs for travellers to fly to Aruba.

Some flights out of FLL or EWR from JetBlue have not been completely cancelled as of yet, but as of January 2023, all of these flight routes will be completely removed. 

Only United Airlines will fly non-stop to Aruba from Newark, unless a change in flight routes is announced.

Check your flight reservations if you’ve already booked flights from FLL or EWR to Aruba. JetBlue is changing their pre-booked flights from FLL to Aruba, to FFL to NY to Aruba, until further notice.


JetBlue Airplanes. Source: JetBlue


According to a statement confirming the recent move from a JetBlue spokesperson, the current suspensions are implemented to ensure operation reliability.

The flight suspension by JetBlue is primarily in markets and airports that are experiencing challenges in daily operations.

The airline industry experienced major operational issues leading up the summer, especially during bad weather, and unexpected air traffic control delays. 

According to JetBlue’s spokesperson, reducing flight capacity will boost operational reliability ahead of the current high season for travel. 

For now, these flight cuts are definitive into 2023, until the airline announces their return in the future. 

JetBlue is accommodating all travellers with an existing booking, or a full refund.

The airline announced it will add new flights soon to compensate for the recent flight cuts to continue a balanced growth, including New York to Aruba, and Boston to Aruba.



The Green Corridor Bridge Now Glows in The Dark

The largest bridge in Aruba now glows at night.

Illumination was added on the bridge in order to make it more visible to traffic at night.

The lights were installed during a scheduled preventive maintenance work on the bridge a few weeks ago.

The colors at the bridge switch between green and yellow.

Check the image below for a view of the bridge at night when the lights turn on…


The Green Corridor Bridge at Night


The maintenance works included sandblasting, rust removal, and painting over the bridge as preventive measures to avoid deterioration.

Maintenance work on the bridge will likely take place every 5 years according to the Director of Aruba’s department of infrastructure and planning.

If you want to see the bridge at night, drive towards the airport, and head in the southeast direction towards San Nicolas. 



The Largest Vow Renewal Ceremony in The Caribbean

Aruba hosted the world’s largest vow renewal ceremony again on Eagle Beach.

For the fourth year, this romantic island invited couples to renew their wedding commitment on the world’s most beautiful beach. 

Over 200 couples, both recently married or many years married, participated in this event, on August 11, 2022. The event was streamed live, on Facebook and Instagram. 

The beach was beautifully decorated with tropical and chic decorations.

Local artist, Edjean Semeleer, was the Master of Ceremony, with Andy Ousbourne leading the vow renewal ceremony. 

Couples came from all over the world including, but not limited to the United States, Italy, Ecuador, Argentina, The Netherlands, Germany, Uruguay, Brazil, Spain, Canada and Peru.


Image Source: Aruba Tourism Authority


Saying “I Do” one more time to reconfirm their love for eachother, with the perfect Caribbean sunset, champagne, and hors d’oeuvres and music. 

Aruba is the number one island for couples to celebrate love. 

Next year will be the 5th edition of the vow renewal, and promises to be big!

The event will take place on August 9, 2023 

All participants are encouraged to wear white and match with caribbean style.

If you’re planning a vow renewal, get ready for the occasion and take part in Aruba’s romantic tradition next year by visiting Aruba Tourism Authority’s website.

The cost of participation in the vow renewal ceremony is free.



Long Table Dinner in Aruba

Wind Creek Resorts is organizing their one night, and one table, with 1000 invites enjoying a spectacular dinner and giving away thousands dollars to charity.

This is the 4th edition of Wind Creek’s, Long Table Aruba all white dinner event, and it takes place on August 28, 2022.

Imagine dinner under the stars, at night, and a chic decorated street with a long table with hundreds of other guests enjoying the event.

Special about this event is the 1000 foot long table with all white table cloth seating 1000 invites to enjoy dinner that gives back the proceeds to a local charity on the island. 


Long Table Dinner event in Aruba – Source: Long Table Aruba.


The event was first introduced in 2017, and has donated over $75.000 to charity in Aruba. 

This year will be the 5th year since Wind Creek Resorts acquired Renaissance Hotel. To celebrate this achievement, Wind Creek is donating $40.000 to a local charity. 

With this donation, it would be the largest sum of money awarded to a charity from the long table event.

Renaissance Hotel was known to be involved with the local community, and this heartfelt supportive spirit is now also part of the new Wind Creek Resort.

Unfortunately, this year’s event is already booked.

The only way to look forward to this event is to prebook for next year’s long table event.

How to book?

Visit the, Wind Creek Hotel “Long Table” page for more details on the long table dinner event.



Taste This New Palette in Palm Beach

Aruba is a foodie paradise, and one of the newest restaurants on the island just revealed a new menu with a unique palette for you to taste.

The new restaurant I’m talking about is Blue Bar, located at the Radisson Blu.

Blu Bar is a new Peruvian pop-up restaurant by the latest resort in Palm Beach. They are open everyday from 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM.

The best thing about this restaurant are the appetizers and entrees that are matched with cocktails and wines that blend perfectly with each dish.


Blu Bar celebrated soft opening, grand opening coming soon. Source: Radisson Blu.


What’s on the menu at this pop-up restaurant?

You will find typical Peruvian cuisine and seafood centric dishes – ceviche, local fish topped sugar snap peas puree, slow cooked beef brisket, cowboy pork glazed with blackberry jam and served with tofu. 

The menu also features tiraditos, a Peruvian dish with raw fish, cut in the shape of sashimi, or similar to carpaccio, in a spicy sauce.

There’s plenty of Peruvian choice dishes on the menu that will satisfy anyone’s taste buds. 

Blu Bar is the only restaurant that offers Peruvian dishes on Palm Beach.



World Series of Poker in Aruba

World Series Poker is on the way to Aruba!

The international circuit of the planets largest poker tournament is on a world tour, and Aruba is next!

One of the most popular card games on the will be celebrated on the island of Aruba with the “World Series of Poker” celebrating 20 years of existence.

The poker games will be held at Hilton Resort from September 22 – October 2, 2022. Pro’s, amateur and every skilled level poker player in between are given a chance at the grand prize.


World Series of Poker in Aruba at Hilton. September 22 – October 2, 2022


The world series poker championships are held all throughout the world, and Aruba is one of the “poker destinations” with Las Vegas being the ending spot of the $1.000.000 cash game.

Aruba will be hosting the poker tournament in one of the most signature casinos when it comes to card games.

Are you ready for a game of poker at the Hilton?

Tables are open from 3:00 PM until 3:00 AM.

Card games include Roulette, Black Jack, Caribbean Stud Poker. Hilton Casino also includes Texas Holdem, Omaha, 4 – 8 limit, 2 – 5 and 5 – 5 no limit.



Monster Truck Show in Aruba

The American Monster Truck Association is preparing for a magnificent monster truck show on the island. 

The event is called “Caribbean Monster Truck Shootout”, is promised to be one of a kind. 

American Monster Truck Association aims to give shows around the Caribbean, and now Aruba is next on the list!

Expect 4 monster trucks executing spectacular jumps over cars, backflips and drifting. 

There’s even a surprise act by the one and only Transformers, Bumblebee and Optimus prime.

The show is taking place on September 30 – October 1 – 2, 2022 at Palo Marga Drag Race Strip. 

Tickets are $20 per adult, and $9 per child (until 12 years). 

You can purchase your tickets at different spots on the island including: NAPA (San Nicolas, Shaba, Santa Cruz), Caya Grandi Service Station, Bright Bakery, Tropical Bottling Company Carry Out (Oranjestad & San Nicolas).


Monster Truck Shootout in Aruba 2022 (September 31 – October 1 – 2).


Keep Aruba Clean With New Beach Bins

Aruba now has new eye-catching mint green beach bins to help you do away with your waste during your vacation and keep the island trash free!

The new beach bins are part of Aruba Tourism Authority’s campaign to preserve and protect the island for future visitors and locals to enjoy the island.

You can help keep Aruba clean by using these new recycling bins to throw away waste during your vacation.


New recycle bins on Aruba beaches.


The new beach bins are a nature preservation project between Aruba Tourism Authority and a local environmental friendly organization called Plastic Beach Party.

The bins are designed to collect separate waste items, including glass, metal and plastic. 

Together they installed 10 bins on 10 different beaches on the island to encourage visitors and locals to help the island recycle waste into reusable products, processed by Plastic Beach Party.

You will find these mint green beach bins at Palm Beach, Eagle Beach, Baby Beach and several other popular beaches on the island.



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Aruba “Seals The Deal” With British Airways

The Tourism Minister and Aruba Tourism Authority “sealed the deal” with British Airways to offer scheduled flights from London Gatwick Airport. 

Aruba is the first island in the Dutch Caribbean to have a scheduled flight service with British Airways.

As of March 2023, according to British Airways official website, you can travel to Aruba starting at £600, if you book now.

The flights are scheduled twice a week, on Thursday and Sunday.

Departing from London Gatwick Airport, to Aruba with a stop in Antigua. 

The new British Airways scheduled flight is a strategic addition to the already seasonal flights out of London Gatwick Airport from TUI-UK.


 


The last time Aruba welcomed British Airlines was over 35 years ago, as a non-commercial flight.

All flights will be serviced by one of the airline’s top class aircraft, the B777 with a capacity of 336 seats.

The European travel market represents almost 10% of the total amounts of passengers handled by the airport for the first 7 months of 2022.

There are 4 main airlines that depart from Europe to Aruba, TUI NL, TUI UK, KLM and the new addition, British Airways. 

The inauguration flight from British Airways is set for March 26, 2023.



Southwest Resumes Flights From Orlando To Aruba

Southwest Airlines recently announced that its resuming flights from Orlando to Aruba, after cancelation due to the pandemic. 

One of the reasons why Southwest Airlines made the decision to resume flights from Orlando to Aruba, is because of the island’s amazing growth in tourism after the pandemic. 

According to the Tourism Minister, the flights out of Orlando are significant to the island.

The flights from Orlando to Aruba are daily. 

There’s also plenty of options to travel with Southwest to Aruba, from Baltimore and Washington, once a week, on Saturday.


Beach in Aruba.


Tourism In Aruba Keeps Upward Growth Trend

Coming back from a devastating pandemic, tourism in Aruba is steadily breaking records compared to 2019 and 2022. 

Aruba’s tourism is frequently compared to 2019, as this is the last year of a normal tourism season, before the pandemic started.

The largest markets for tourism in Aruba are North America, Europe and Latin America. 

Here’s a view of how tourism is really growing, comparing 2019 and 2022.

  • April – 93.953 visitors (2019) / 101.969 visitors (2022)
  • May – 88.543 visitors (2019) / 91.403 visitors (2022)
  • June – 98.970 visitors (2019) / 101.526 visitors (2022)
  • July – 103.464 visitors (2019) / 109.006 visitors(2022)


What is propelling this growth for Aruba’s tourism?

Visitors like YOU are the reason for Aruba’s tourism! Thank you for supporting the locals on the island!

Everyone who visits Aruba, falls in love with the island, for different reasons.

You are part of a big group of visitors that have come to be known as family by many locals on the island. 

If it’s your first visit on the island, or you have become a repeat guest, we Arubans appreciate you!



The Masterplan To Revamp San Nicolas

Tourism Minister recently announced more details about the ongoing renovation project for San Nicolas, called “Seroe Colorado Masterplan”.

This master plan is part of the Government’s vision to beautify and upgrade the beaches and infrastructure of San Nicolas.

If you’ve been to Baby Beach recently, you might have noticed the newly created parking lots, new spacious beach to walk on, and new beach huts. 

When renovations at Baby Beach enters phase 2 as of September 2022, you will notice more changes soon.

This includes enhancing the surrounding nature, a new court for beach sports and activities, creating new facilities to buy food and refreshments and new bathrooms.

The existing wall that protects newborn sea turtles during nesting season will also be moved further away to provide additional protection for the turtles, and make the beach wider.

Upgrading Rodger’s Beach in Aruba

A stone throw away from Baby Beach you will find Rodger’s Beach, which is also slated to begin renovations as of 2023.

The first construction works near Rodger’s have already started, which includes a newly renovated pier, and a new staircase leading to the beach. 

After renovations start officially in 2023, a new 40 room boutique hotel will be constructed at one of the the abandoned buildings next to “Jads Watersports”, between Baby Beach and Rodger’s Beach. 

New parking lot, additional beach huts, and beach facilities will also be created at Roger’s.

Renovations in San Nicolas

Better known as the Sunrise City of Aruba, San Nicolas is known as one of the largest cities, located southeast of the island. 

It’s rich in culture, tradition and buildings that hold many of the old stories and memories of the island, when a refinery used to be the second pillar of Aruba’s economy, next to tourism. 

The Seroe Colorado Masterplan also includes the revamping of the city’s main streets and surrounding touristic areas.

What can you expect to see after renovations are complete?

New activities, carnival vibes, fashion shows, food festivals – one event to lookout for is the Aruba Art Fair, taking place in November 2022.

More details about the new upgrades in San Nicolas will be released soon by the Government.



New Mural in San Nicolas By Armando Goedgedrag

There’s a new mural that’s getting everyone’s attention in the main streets of San Nicolas. 

Here’s the mural, see picture below…


The New Colorful Mural in San Nicolas.


Painted by the talented Armando Goedgedrag, one of Aruba’s many outstanding painters, this mural is one of a kind.

Because of the intricate detail of this mural, it took Armando over 3 weeks to complete it. 

The mural is located at the end of the main street in San Nicolas.

This bright and colorful mural features the flora and fauna you will see all around the island.

In the right bottom corner, you see a gutu (also known as the blue parrot fish), often seen when snorkeling at the Palm Island.

You also see an orange tailed bird, locally known as the Blenchi Cora (Ruby Topaz Hummingbird). Next to the Blenchi Cora, you see the Blenchi Berde (Blue Tailed Emerald), another local bird found on the island.

The mural is mainly painted with yellow and orange paint, symbolising the sun (and sunrise) in San Nicolas, better known as Sunrise City. 

Also displayed on the mural are floral symbols that are used as decoration on the traditional houses in Aruba.

The beaches and green nature is also on the mural.

Make Your Promise To Aruba

Aruba Tourism Authority commissioned local artist Armando Goedgedrag to paint this mural in order to promote their new awareness campaign towards visitors and locals, to make a promise to protect the islands nature and environment.

What’s your promise to Aruba?

Here’s a list of promises made by visitors from all around the world until now, according to Aruba Tourism Authority’s website:

  • I will respect land, sea & nature (Canada)
  • I will move around safely, attentive to all rules and norms (Argentina)
  • Being sensible to all who call this island home (Italy)
  • I will honor the local culture (USA)

You can also make a promise to Aruba when you visit, and help keep the island beautiful for the rest of generations to come after you.

The “My Promise” Mural Challenge

If you are on the island and you want to make a promise to protect Aruba, do the My Promise Mural Challenge. 

What’s the challenge? 

Take a picture by the mural and show Aruba’s nature and your promise to the world.

Share your picture on social media (instagram) using hashtags #myarubapromise + #vacationsbyaruba

Watch Armando in the picture below to see how to do the challenge…



Update on Roundabout Construction at Palm Beach

If you’ve been to Aruba before, you remember the intersection at Palm Beach, between McDonald’s and Wendy’s. 

That intersection is gone.

A new large roundabout is being constructed here now, and it’s almost complete.

At the moment, only half of the roundabout is open for traffic, which is the lane on the west side of the roundabout, the road from Ritz Carlton to Oranjestad, or Palm Beach towards the hotel strip.

The east side of the roundabout is still under construction. 

On August 30 – 31, the roundabout will be completely closed, to lay the last and top layer of the asphalt on the new road and finalize roundabout construction. 

It is expected that the roundabout will be open on September 1, 2022.

If you are driving near Palm Beach before the roundabout opens officially, take note of the road signs with alternative routes around this area. 

Driving around Palm Beach will be safer and easier after the roundabout is completed.

If you are looking for a car rental in Aruba, check out our options and ask us for a quote in our car rental page.



New Early Bird Special in Aruba

Aruba is a foodie paradise, and dinner options just got more interesting after Que Pasa Restaurant announced their new early bird special. 

What are early bird specials?

Early bird specials are unique discounts offered by restaurants on their menu for diners who like to eat early.

So what’s new about Que Pasa’s early bird special?

It’s a 3 course dinner menu. 

Start with an appetizer. 

You can choose between the soup of the day or caesar salad

The main dish is the “fish of the day” served with chimichuri sauce, french fries and pepper sauce. Or you can enjoy a savory 4oz lomito (steak) well done, or just the way you prefer. 

The last dish on the early bird special is dessert.

Choose between vanilla ice cream or cheese cake. 

The early bird dinner menu is available everyday at Que Pasa Restaurant between 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm for only $29.00 per person.

Que Pasa is located in Oranjestad (Address – Wilhelminastraat 18).



Moving To Aruba is Everyone’s Dream

Living in the Caribbean is a dream that most people have, and some actually end up making the dream come true.

Waking up to the beach view and beautiful nature is priceless.

Island Origin Magazine, a Caribbean-American magazine that features travel, lifestyle and culture, listed Aruba as one of the best islands to live, if you’re thinking about relocating to the Caribbean.

Do you dream of living the island lifestyle?


Enjoying the island life with a nice walk on the beach.


Living in The Caribbean

Other islands mentioned by Island Origin Magazine that are also a good option to live are Curacao, Barbados and The US Virgin Islands. 

What makes Aruba the ideal place to live in?

Besides the happy people, beautiful beaches, amazing food selection, and surrounding nature, Aruba is one of the most modern and developed islands in the Caribbean. 

There’s plenty of land on the island to build your dream home. 

The island also has a bright future ahead, as the Government is investing in the tech industry, growing it’s circular economy, and plans to transitions to green energy by the end of 2050.

Agriculture is also being promoted, as locals are encouraged to start growing their own vegetables and fruits, as the island tries to rely less on importing food from away.



Ritz Carlton Casino Giving Away Cash!

The Casino at Ritz Carlton is giving away $130.000 in prize money every weekend during August and September 2022.

So what’s in it to win it?

To participate in this cash giveaway, visit the casino on Friday, Saturday and Sunday (August and September 2022).

Friday you can win $1000 cash prizes between 10:00 am – 12:00 am, playing the “Friday Mega Frenzy” games.

Win $5000 cash on Saturday and Sunday, playing bingo (as of 1:00 pm), with a progressive jackpot currently at $12000, cash money. 

You can also win $60 in slot machine credits playing at the casino after midnight. 

For more information on the cash giveaway contact +297 527 2276.



New Windturbines Park in Aruba Soon

Aruba’s utility company announced a request for expression of interest in search for a partner to build a new wind turbine park on the island.

The new project is part of the Government’s strategy to make Aruba completely dependent on renewable energy by 2050. 

The company that wins the bid, is required to design, build, own, operate and maintain the wind turbine park. This also includes supplying of the collected energy to Aruba, through the local utility company for the duration of 15 years. 

A 10 wind turbine park is already in function near the south east part of the island, known as, Vader Piet. Each of these wind turbines has a capacity of 3MW and are producing almost 15% of the islands energy.

Experts are continually looking for additional opportunities to provide the local community with reliable, affordable and sustainable energy.



Caribbean Monster Truck Shootout

The American Monster Truck Association is preparing for a magnificent monster truck show on the island. 

The event is called “Caribbean Monster Truck Shootout”, is promised to be one of a kind. 

American Monster Truck Association aims to give shows around the Caribbean, and now Aruba is next on the list!

Expect 4 monster trucks executing spectacular jumps over cars, backflips and drifting. 

There’s even a surprise act by the one and only Transformers, Bumblebee and Optimus prime.

The show is taking place on September 30 – October 1 – 2, 2022 at Palo Marga Drag Race Strip. 

Tickets are $20 per adult, and $9 per child (until 12 years). 

You can purchase your tickets at different spots on the island including: NAPA (San Nicolas, Shaba, Santa Cruz), Caya Grandi Service Station, Bright Bakery, Tropical Bottling Company Carry Out (Oranjestad & San Nicolas).



Get in Contact With Vacations By Aruba

If you have any questions about Aruba regarding:

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New Passenger Flow Control at Aruba’s Airport

Aruba’s airport introduced a new passenger flow control system for all US bound travelers as of December 1, 2021.

The passenger flow control system was introduced to better manage the flow of travelers inside of the airport’s facilities due to the ongoing expansion construction works of the airport (project Gateway 2030).

Read More – Aruba’s Airport Project Gateway 2030



The new passenger flow control system is a staged approach to regulating the amount travelers that enter the departure halls and other airport facilities.

After introducing the new passenger flow system, waiting lines to check-in will be shorter, and the check-in process will be faster, which makes departing the island a piece of cake.

Passenger flow control also prevents travelers from arriving too early at the Airport.

How does it work?

It all starts with the online ED-Card you fill in before traveling to Aruba.

Your departure flight information is used to determine the dedicated time slot that you have to be at the airport in order to enjoy a safe, easy and fast check-in process.

All travelers will be assigned to a color group (Yellow, Blue, Orange) which indicates the estimated time that travelers should arrive at the airport. This is based on the traveler’s airline scheduled departure time.

Here’s a view of the check-in time schedule based on color groups (Yellow, Blue, Orange):



If you’re departing from Aruba to the US you should take your scheduled departure time into account to determine when you should arrive at the airport at the latest to check in.

What To Expect When Arriving At The Airport

A passenger flow ambassador will welcome you at the airport and help you control your check-in time slot and assist you with any other questions.

You will be guided by different airport ambassadors at the several check points at the airport, before boarding the airplane.

The passenger airflow control system will end on March 12, 2022.



Aruba’s Tourism Recovery in Numbers

The island is set to recuperate 95% of its tourism in 2022, according to the CEO of Aruba’s tourism board (Aruba Tourism Authority).

Aruba’s tourism took a major hit after the pandemic in 2019.

Local and international tourism experts projected for tourism to recuperate at a slow rate, but tourism is recuperating faster than expected.

It’s been a long road to recovery, but well worth it, as the island looks to recuperate approximately 75% of tourism at the end of 2021 (compared to 2019).

The amount of bookings to Aruba that the tourism board has received gives a positive indication that tourism is heading in the right direction.

Over 70.000 travelers visited Aruba in October 2021, and the amount of tourist in November and December is projected to be over 100% more compared to the same periods in 2019, before the pandemic.

Aruba is expecting a big growth in tourism in 2022, as the island’s Tourism Minister announced 1.8 million+ available air seats.



Secret’s Hotel Will Be The Highlight of San Nicolas

The developers of one of the newest hotels in Aruba – Grupo Martinon – gave a detailed presentation to the Government of Aruba this week during a private meeting between the two parties.

It’s a new hotel – Secrets Resorts – located in San Nicolas (Seroe Colorado).

A luxury resort, all inclusive and only for adults.

The meeting between Grupo Martinon & the Government was focused on the plans, future and construction progress of the resort.

Aruba’s Government is making sure the developers are complying with Aruba’s laws and regulations set for the construction of the resort including respecting the environment and nature, and also offering employment opportunities to locals residents first.


Baby-Beach-Resort-in-Seroe-Colorado

Layout of the future Baby beach resort in Seroe Colorado


Secrets Resort is currently in its first phase of construction, which includes erecting steel structural frames of the resort and digging the foundation of the property.

The construction of secret resort is one of the largest construction projects happening in Aruba at the moment, and one of the most unique, as it is one of the first large and exclusive hotels in San Nicolas.

After the meeting with Grupo Martinon, the Prime Minister said during an interview – “I believe that Secrets Resort will be a main attraction for the area of San Nicolas and an important economic pillar for the island”.

According to the Director of Grupo Martinon, the hotel is set to open in 2023 and will employ about 600 local employees at first to run the resort.



New Direct Flights From Sweden To Aruba

Ving AB, a Swedish tour operator, will fly to Aruba from Stockholm for the winter season 2022/2023.

The Swedish tour operator recently announced that is has signed a contract with Air Lease Corporation for an aircraft A330-900, which will be operated by its subsidiary Sunclass Airlines.

The newly acquired aircraft was intended for France Airways (bankrupt in 2019).

But Ving AB (Sunclass) will now become the first Scandinavian airline to acquire the aircraft and use it to re-activate flights to the Caribbean in the winter season of 2022/2023, including Aruba.

The inaugural flight out of Sweden to Aruba is set to take place on November 24, 2022.

The airline will fly to Aruba 9 times during 4 months, and will transport around 3.400 visitors from Sweden to the One Happy Island.

The last flight to Aruba from Sweden will be on March 16, 2023.



German Cruise Ship “Mein Schiff” First Time Aruba Visit

Aruba welcomed the German cruise ship – Mein Schiff – for the first time! 

The ship was revealed in 2018 and cruises with the Malta Flag and is owned by TUI Cruises.

At 315 meters, Mein Schiff,  is a fairly large ship that can hold up to 1100 crew members and 3000 passengers. The ship has 12 restaurants, entertainment, gym, and 17 bars. 

Mein Schiff is one of the many cruise ships that will dock in Aruba during the next year (2022).

Aruba is enjoying the resumption of cruise tourism since June 2021, after cruise tourism stood still for over a year since the pandemic. 

There’s over 31 calls for cruise ships to dock on the island’s ports in November, and there’s over 38 cruise ship calls to dock in December. 



New Post Stamps in Aruba

Aruba’s post office revealed a new post stamp series featuring agriculture on the island. 

The post stamps were released on November 16, 2021.

They were designed by Elvis Tromp, who is a local painter and graphic designer. 

He is known for painting Aruban landscapes and family portraits. 

The agriculture post stamps show how local farmers go through the process of cultivating plants on the island. From planting the seeds, watering the plants daily, until the plant bears fruit.


new agriculture post stamps.


Agriculture in Aruba is a tradition by local farmers, and local families that want to build their own sustainable gardens are also following the old tradition. 

The land in Aruba is very dry, but local farmers use small areas for growing, or vertical farming to cultivate different plants such as cucumbers, corn, lettuce, papaya, peanuts, tomatoes, lime, and other native plants. 

These post stamps are the perfect item to add to your portfolio if you are a collector.

The values of the agriculture post stamps are 90 cents, 220 cents, 320 cents and 420 cents. They can be purchased for 10.50 Aruban florins (or $6) at the local post office in Oranjestad or San Nicolas.



Aruba Starts With Booster Shots

Aruba started administering booster shots after The Netherlands approved the islands request to provide extra dose of vaccine against the virus for locals in high risk groups.

The booster shots are intended for residents 60+ years old and all health care workers that are in close contacts with patients.

Booster shots are similar to the first two vaccines shots, but the booster increases the effectiveness of the first and second vaccines.

At the moment 62% of Aruba received both shots of the vaccine (Pfizer). 

66% of Aruba’s population received only the first dose of the vaccine.

The group of 60+ year olds are 84% vaccinated on the first dose and 81% received both vaccines.

According to the Health Minister, the rate of vaccination at the moment is approximately at 270 shots every week.

The government will continue to organize vaccination events and encourage locals to get vaccinated in order to combat the pandemic.



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Reopening Aruba’s Live Audience Events

As the island moves toward full reopening, the Government wants to organize its first live audience event with live entertainment.

The test event is a couples dance party, better known as Bailable on the island.

Only 250 couples (500 attendees) will be allowed to enter the party.

The event was set to take place on November 13, but has been rescheduled on November 27, 2021.

If you want to join the party you need to be vaccinated, or present a negative test result taken 72 hours before the party.

According to the Health Minister, the decision to organize a “test event” is approved, because of low amount of new virus infections and hospitalizations begin to decline.

The plan is to organize a series of 5 carnival themed events, to celebrate carnival since it has been officially cancelled for 2022.

This live audience event is not going to be the usual, because the Government has added new health protocols that means a change of party experience to guarantee a safe party for all attendees.

New protocols that will be in effect are staying at least 6 feet away or two arms length away from other couples. And also maintaining the best possible hygiene protocols and safety precautions. 

The second live audience event is planned on January 8, 2022.



New Art Gallery “ArtisA” Open in San Nicolas

A new art gallery – ArtisA – opened in San Nicolas and they presented the inaugural exhibition by Elvis Tromp: Discover the World of Elvis Tromp Through a Culinary & Arts Experience”.

ArtisA stands for Art is Aruba.

The goal of this new art gallery is to create and display local and international art project for the viewing public.

ArtisA is owned and managed by – Tito Bolivar – a local art curator who also manages Aruba’s art fair. Which is an art project that gives local and international artists the freedom to create wall art in the main streets of San Nicolas.

Take a visit to the new ArtisA Gallery in the main streets of San Nicolas located at: Bernard van de veen Zeppenfeldstraat #6.



New Gelatissimo Ice Cream Bus on Palm Beach

Gianni’s Ristorante Italiano hosted a celebratory event last week to introduce its new ice cream bus on Palm Beach.

The new ice cream bus is called Gelatissimo bus – a real Italian Gelateria – right in the middle of the Caribbean.

Gelatissimo bus offers Italian delicacies including, but not limited to gelato, popsicles, bon bon’s, pizza’s,  and cool beverages.

The bus is a double-decker with indoor and outdoor seating.

Gelatissimo bus is the newest place to visit if you have a sweet spot for dessert after dinner.

The bus is located on the Plaza next to Gianni’s restaurant and is open daily from 5:00 pm – 11:30 pm.


Gelatissimo Sweets



Late Night Eaters Guide For Aruba Food Trucks

You will be on the island soon, and you’re looking forward to trying the food trucks in Aruba that you’ve been reading everyone rave about online.

There’s so many food trucks in Aruba, making a decision of which one to try can be harder than you think. 

Being a local on the island, I can recommend a few food trucks you can check out when you get the late night craving.

This article is a list of food trucks in Aruba that will be updated frequently with additional food trucks on the island.

Find Out More – A Late Night Eaters Guide To The Best Food Trucks in Aruba


Beach Buoy Maintenance

The Tourism Minister announced that the maintenance of floating beach buoys at several beaches around the island started as of this week.

A field of buoys will be strategically installed on several beaches around the island including Malmok, Arashi, Tres Trapi, Palm Beach and Costa Linda.

These buoys are like floating barriers used on the island’s open beaches to segregate and protect swimming areas. They also restrict entry of passing boats and jet skis. 

Works to install the new buoy fields have already begun. The buoys will be brightly colored for visibility, made up of a combination of small floats and larger marker buoys, connected by high tension floating ropes.

Local contractors are leading the installations of the new buoys with help of spotters on the beach.

According to the Tourism Minister, the project will be completed late 2021.



Stairs Towards Rodger’s Beach Soon Restored

Tourism Minister announced a new renovation project to restore the concrete staircase that leads to Rodger’s Beach. 

The renovation project is part of the masterplan to revamp the entire Baby beach area.

A pier that extends over the water at Rodger’s will also be restored to its original glory.

Here’s a view of the staircase right now, before renovation works start….



Major effort is being gathered to renovate the beach area’s in San Nicolas.

At the end of the revamping project, the infrastructure at Baby & Rodger’s beach will be completely renovated. 

This includes additional huts for shade, beautiful landscaping, new public restrooms, new parking areas, food & beverage spots, and new courts for beach sports.



More About San Nicolas Developments

Everyone knows that a new exclusive hotel is being constructed in San Nicolas (Baby Beach) – Secrets Resorts.

Constructions works have slowed down because of the pandemic, but developments are still taking place at the moment, but at a slower pace.

San Nicolas Has The Potential To Become Aruba’s Tourism Capital

According to the Tourism Minister, the renovation at Rodger’s beach is the start of a bright future for the district of San Nicolas. 

He also said that San Nicolas has the potential to become the tourism capital of Aruba, after the renovations are completed.

Construction of the staircase at Rodger’s beach will start within one month, and it should be ready at the end of 2021.


Beaches are shining like diamonds…


Self Test Kits Now Available in Aruba

The local pharmacy brand “Botica di Servicio” now offers self test kits to the public.

Aruba’s Department of Public Health approved self test kits after the demand for alternative test solutions by the private and commercial sector.

Self test kits are perfect for locals and visitors to test for coronavirus at home, if they have mild symptoms or light symptoms.

The test kits are not a substitute for the current policy of the Department of Public Health, but another method to help aid the primary strategy to test suspicious corona cases on the island.

An important factor to consider when using self test kits – the result of the test kits are not the official diagnosis, unless verified at an accredited lab – if you are using it to test before flying.

The 4 brands of self test kits available on the island are:

  • Panbio COVID-19 Ag Rapid Test Device
  • Rapid SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Test
  • SARS CoV-2 Rapid Antigen Test
  • Standard Q COVID-19 Test

These four self test kit brands are only available to locals. 

Visitors are able to purchase the BinaxNOW Covid19 AG Card Home Test.



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The Stairs Towards Rodger’s Beach Soon Restored

Tourism Minister announced a new renovation project to restore the concrete staircase that leads to Rodger’s Beach. 

The renovation project is part of the masterplan to revamp the entire Baby beach area.

A pier that extends over the water at Rodger’s will also be restored to its original glory.

Here’s a view of the staircase right now, before renovation works start….


Stairway to Rodger’s Beach at the moment – renovations on the way!


Major effort is being gathered to renovate the beach area’s in San Nicolas.

At the end of the revamping project, the infrastructure at Baby & Rodger’s beach will be completely renovated. 

This includes additional huts for shade, beautiful landscaping, new public restrooms, new parking areas, food & beverage spots, and new courts for beach sports. 

More About San Nicolas Developments

Everyone knows that a new exclusive hotel is being constructed in San Nicolas (Baby Beach) – Secrets Resorts.

Constructions works have slowed down because of the pandemic, but developments are still taking place at the moment, but at a slower pace.


Rodger’s Beach is Beautiful…


San Nicolas Has The Potential To Become Aruba’s Tourism Capital

According to the Tourism Minister, the renovation at Rodger’s beach is the start of a bright future for the district of San Nicolas. 

He also said that San Nicolas has the potential to become the tourism capital of Aruba, after the renovations are completed.

Construction of the staircase at Rodger’s beach will start within one month, and it should be ready at the end of 2021.



Proposed Motion: Beach Access For People With Disability

A member of the Parliament proposed a new motion to create new infrastructures for people with physical disabilities to access the beach in Aruba.

The newly proposed motion will be discussed during upcoming Government meetings.

Construction will start as soon as the motion is approved by members of the Government.

New infrastructure for beach access for people with a disability include: Baby Beach, Rodger’s Beach, and the beach close to Divi Phoenix resort (Strand-politie).

Improving the beach access will have a positive impact on the physical and mental health of those with a disability.


Check out our car rental offers in Aruba.



Aruba’s First Pilot “Test” Event

The Government in Aruba is preparing to take another step in the direction to returning back to normal life before the pandemic by organizing a test event. 

The test event is a couples dance party, better known as Bailable party on the island.

Only 250 couples will be allowed to enter the party.

The event will take place on November 13, 2021.

If you want to join the party you need to be vaccinated, or present a negative test result taken 72 hours before the party.

It’s been over 1 ½ years since the last dance party was organized when the pandemic started.

According to the Health Minister, the decision to organize a “test event” is approved, because of the progress of Aruba’s recuperation from the pandemic.

The island has maintained a low infection rate during almost 3 consecutive months. 

If there’s no detectable spread of virus after the test event, the party will be considered a success.

The Government could start to allow party promoters to organize events in a controlled manner that follows all Government’s health regulations to prevent new infections.

Aruba’s test event is modeled after similar successful test events in The Netherlands.

Reopening the islands entertainment economy is important, but remains a complex and difficult task. 



New Wine Preservation System at L.G’s Steak & Chop House

The famous steakhouse in Aruba – L.G Smith’s – introduced a new wine preservation system for their wine collection. 

It’s a new wine preservation system by Coravin. 

What’s new about this wine preservation system?

It has the one of the most innovative technologies in the wine preservation industry – it prevents the oxidation of wine – and pours wine without removing the cork, making your wine taste like it was never opened before, every time a glass is poured.


Wine poured with Coravin preservation system.


L.G’s has a highly sought after wine list by wine connoisseurs, which includes Chateau Montelena and the popular Whispering Angel.

The steak & chop house is known for their USDA-inspected aged prime steaks and has held the title as the number one steakhouse in Aruba on trip advisor for years.

They are open every day from 6.00 pm – 11.00 pm.



Cosecha Art Gallery Closed Until Further Notice

The local craft and art gallery store in Aruba, better known as Cosecha is closing its doors.

Cosecha has been affected by the pandemic as much of the rest of the arts sector around the world.

The art gallery opened its doors in 2015 in Oranjestad, then followed by launching one gallery in San Nicolas, and another near the entrance of the islands cruise port.

It all started with 25 local artisans displaying their locally made arts and crafts to visitors. Through the years, Cosecha has grown to a larger size of local artisans, over 125 local artists.

Cosecha not only sold art and crafts, but also provided arts workshops.

Since Cosecha’s grand opening until today, they have provided workshops for over 4000+ visitors and locals. 

Read More About Cosecha



New Residential Project in Oranjestad

The Government in Aruba is investing into renovating the current infrastructure on the island.

One of the newest developments in Aruba is going to be the transformation of the old department of custom’s building in Oranjestad into a new residence. 

More details about the residence project will be announced at a later date by the Government.



Watch Sarah-Quita Prepare For Windsurfing Competition

Aruba’s Tradewinds gave birth to a professional windsurfer known as Sarah-Quita Offringa.

Sarah Quita is one of Aruba’s professional athletes and Che’s preparing for a international competition in Brazil.

She has competed in the PWA World Tour competitions and has numerous championship titles under her belt.

Her skills are so good, that she was nominated by the International Sailing Federation for world sailor of the year awards.

Sarah is currently in Brazil preparing for a windsurfing competition, follow her as she gets ready to claim gold!




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Aruba’s Expands US Departure Hall

Aruba’s airport has seen an increase in passenger traffic during the years, and the airport is responding by expanding the building with a new project called “Gateway 2030”.

Gateway 2030 is an expansion project of the airport, which includes adding new gates, removing various steps inside the check-in halls, new facilities, more restaurants and bars, and several new upgrades.

Construction works for project gateway 2030 have already started. 

According to the CEO of Aruba’s Airport, the current construction is at phase 1-A at the moment, which is expected to finish in 2024.


Related Article – All About Project Gateway 2030


Project Gateway 2030 is expected to cost $140 million dollars.

The expansion of Aruba’s Airport doesn’t only cater to visitors but also creates local job employment for over 300+ Arubans. 

If construction works continue as planned, the airport will have a completely new look as of 2024.

Phase 1-A of construction includes but is not limited to the expansion of the current US departure’s check-in hall to twice its current size.



The current baggage hall area will also be completely renovated with modern technology.

According to the Tourism Minister – “the new baggage hall will feature one of the best luggage conveyor belt” technology has to offer. 

Project gateway 2030 and its new airport innovations will also give travelers one of the best Airport experiences in the Caribbean.



New Closing Hours For Local Establishments

The pandemic introduced chaos into the world but countries are responding with different measures to regain normal life again, one of them is closing hours in the business sector. 

Aruba has kept the rate of infection low and managed to keep increasing the vaccination rate on the island. This was one of the factors why the Government announced the easing of closing hours for local establishments.

As of October 17, 2021, all businesses within the tourism catering industry are allowed to close at 1.00 am (before it was 12.00 am).

Casinos are allowed to offer the best chances of winning to their customers until 2:00 am. 

These new measures are valid until further notice by the Government of Aruba.


Download the latest coupons and save money in Aruba.


The First Post Stamp 2021

Aruba’s postal service company released its first official post stamp for 2021.

The newest stamp of post-Aruba features a painting of one of the most photographed trees on the island also known as the Fofoti – located right on Eagle beach. 

Fofoti trees are native to the island and only grown in certain tropical regions around the world.


Fofoti Tree – The first Aruba post stamp 2021


Fofoti tree is a species from the Combretacaea family tree.

The tree is shaped this way because of the island’s constant wind that blows from the same direction – east to west – also known as the Aruban tradewinds.

Fofoti trees are not only found on Eagle beach, but also along hiking trails in the island national park, and areas like Rooi Prikichi, Rooi Canashito, and Rooi Sero Crystal.

It can grow anywhere inland of an island, as long as the roots are planted near seawater. 

Like many other trees on the island, these trees are natives and protected by law. 

If you’re an adventure seeker – you’ll find more beautiful fototi trees along the beach coastlines of Baby Beach, Malmok, Eagle, and Surfside.

This new post stamp is valued at 8.50 florins – $5 US dollars – and it’s available at the post office in Aruba, located in Oranjestad and San Nicolas.


Private Jeep Tours

If you want to explore Aruba and learn about the island’s native trees, history, and culture up close with locals, join one of the island’s tours by an experienced Aruban tour guide, better known as Madagascar Adventures. 

It’s a private tour by a PRIVATE ARUBAN TOUR GUIDE. 

One of the best deals on the island12 people max $125 per hour.


Madagascar Private Adventure


Book a Tour Now! – Madagascar Adventures Aruba


At least 10 Cruise Ships Expected in November 2021

Cruise tourism recently restarted in June 2021, and Aruba’s cruise calls have been steadily growing up to 31 cruise ships in November 2021. 

According to Tourism Minister, cruise ship calls to Aruba were expected to be around 18, but more than 31 cruise ships have called to dock on the island’s sun-kissed shores. 

October 2021 has 9 calls for cruise ships to stop over on the island on their way to their next island in the Caribbean. 

Aruba is one of the leading islands in the Caribbean leading the revamp of the cruise tourism industry.



Here’s a list of scheduled cruise ships to dock on the island:

  • Celebrity Cruise
  • Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines
  • Carnival Cruise Lines
  • TUI Cruises
  • AIDA Cruises
  • Princess Cruises
  • Marella Cruises
  • MSC Cruises
  • Holland America Line
  • Windstar Cruises
  • Azamara Cruises

Here’s a schedule for the cruise calls for November 2021



“Third Booster Jab” On The Way

Aruba’s department of public health plans to administer the 3rd dose of coronavirus vaccination to the public. 

The decision falls in line with the world’s health organization to boost the immune system of citizens who are more susceptible to getting covid. 

The 3rd vaccination dose will only be administered to a selected group of locals who fall into this group of citizens who have a low immune system, after advice from the Dutch Institute for Public Health. And those who already received their second jab. 

The rate of vaccination in Aruba – 75% – is among one of the highest in the Caribbean.

Aruba also has one of the lowest infection rates in the region at the moment, due to the strict measures taken by the Government.



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Type your email in the opt-in form below to register.