Spacious 3 Bedroom Home inside a Beautiful Residence in Aruba

This fully fenced in, peach painted home is located close to the downtown area and not far from surf side beach in Oranjestad.

Built on 5652 square foot property area, this 1905 square foot home has 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, including a large indoor one car garage.

The house also a covered porch (veranda & patio), backyard, kitchen, living room and dining room.

Surrounding the house is a lush garden with tropical flowers, cacti and palm trees providing shade.

Inside the living room is spacious. High ceilings, including a large door connected to the veranda and patio.

Inside the master bedroom you’ll find a private bathroom, including a semi furnished closet. Want to see the rest of the house? Click here to see pictures, floor plan, additional information or make an appointment to view the house. 

Who’s selling?

The house is for sale by a popular vlogger in Aruba named Sam De Krijger.

Her asking price? US$279.500

Location in Aruba

The home is located in a quiet and private residence called San Barbola.

It’s located close to supermarkets and public parks. A new highway connects San Barbola easily with the airport, hotel area and other hot spots on the island.

3 Reasons Why It’s a Good Idea to Buy a House in Aruba

  1. Aruba is one of the best islands in the Caribbean, if you’re planning a move to this region. Luckily, at the moment the price of land in Aruba is cheaper compared to other islands.
  2. A family of four or more travelers spends thousands of dollars on a 7 days trip to Aruba. If you visit the island every year, this cost can be high. Owning a vacation home in Aruba will save you money in the long run.
  1. Outside of your stay in Aruba, you can rent out your vacation home to other visitors.

According to AirBnb, home owners in Aruba that decided to rent out their house using their services, made an average of $9.200 in 2018. 

A house in this location could easily rent out between $150.00 – $200.00 a night.

AirBnb measured the average occupancy of Aruba vacation homes at 52%. At this rate, you can easily expect to make at least $30.000 or more a year renting the house to other visitors, when you’re not on the island.

Can Non-Aruban citizens to own real estate in Aruba?

Anyone can own real estate in Aruba, including visitors.

The Average Cost of Utilities in Aruba 

The average price for water supply in Aruba varies depending on your usage – one person can expect around $40, however a family of 4 can be around $100 or more with landscaping and pool.

Electricity also depends on your use, ranging from $80 to $200, the latter representing a larger family or more energy consumption compared to the average user.

Type of Ways To Buy a House or Land in Aruba

You only have two options when it comes to buying or building a house.

The first is when you buy a house, or build a home on freehold property land. This means you own the land, and will have a deed to show for it. 

If you’re not the outright owner of the land, you’re going to have to lease the land that belongs to the government. 

It’s normally a long term lease and paid every year, depending on the location of the land. The price is higher near the hotel area.

The annual lease fee usually increases after the lease is renewed after 60 years.

Is it your dream to live in the Caribbean?

Tell us your ideas and plans to relocate to Aruba, and inspire others to do the same.

ORANJESTAD (June 23, 2019) – Sundays I write about the most relevant and interesting happenings on the island in my newsletter.

This weeks edition features the top news headlines in Aruba.

Subscribing to my newsletter is an ideal way to stay up to date with what’s going on in Aruba – whether you’re living on the island, miles away or your first visit!

Join our Facebook group “Vacations By Aruba” to get inside information & advice from travelers who also know Aruba. 

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Nature Conservation Projects in Aruba

Besides the beautiful beaches, Aruba is also a nature’s lovers paradise.

The national park of Aruba (Arikok) intends to keep the island a paradise for nature lovers by starting various nature conservation projects.  

Restoring the population of native parakeets called lora’s & prikichis is one of their goals.

The population on the island has decreased mainly due to building, habitat loss and invasive species like the boa constrictor snake.

To prevent a decline in the shark population, investigations are also currently ongoing as to the amount of sharks in the islands deep blue waters.

Sharks are not commonly found in the shores of Aruba, but most likely out in the deep blue, miles away from the beaches.

A marine park will be implemented soon to protect flora, fauna and underwater life at different beach areas.

The marine park will be effective at mangel halto and the surrounding bays. And at most of the beaches in San Nicolas, including Baby beach and Rodgers beach.

Arikok national park will also start a restoration project for the mangroves at spaans lagoon.

Including the planting new mangrove seeds in the area.

A botanical garden will also be introduced in Aruba soon, with focus on medicinal plants.





Mind Your Code of Conduct When in Aruba

Tourism Authorities will start an awareness campaign after two pictures of visitors with their jeeps and UTV in the ocean went viral on social media.

The pictures caused an online outrage for both visitors and locals.

How could someone end up with a rental vehicle in the ocean, while it’s not even allowed to drive on the beach sand?

The new awareness campaign will be implemented to reinforce the code of conduct for responsible traveling in Aruba.

Both travelers and locals play an important role in developing responsible and sustainable tourism because they make a difference with their conduct and decisions.

If you did not know it yet, it’s not allowed to drive on the beaches in Aruba.

Planning on going off-roading with jeeps, UTV or ATV?

Be careful where you drive on the north coast of the island.

The terrain on this side are dry and rocky, but a lot of flora and fauna can be found here.

Watch out not to drive over habitats belonging to lizards, iguanas, crabs, owls, rabbits and other small animals, even indigenous plants.

The best way to discover the beauty of the northern coast without destroying nature is by joining guided tours. Locals who know the island can show you the way through Aruba’s beauty.

After the incidents with vehicles in the ocean by visitors, the government plans to fine drivers who choose to break the law.

There are over 1000 ATV and UTV rentals on the island, can you imagine if everyone drives on the beach, rides over animal habitats or enter the ocean?

Everyone needs to respect nature in Aruba – locals and visitors alike.





New Changes For Arubus & Paid Parking in Aruba

Arubus and Aruparking are introducing new changes.

Transport minister announced important updates this week regarding the new buses and the future of paid parking in Aruba.

After appointing a new director for the public transportation company, transport minister revealed the new buses on the way to Aruba.

A total of 15 new buses are on the way to Aruba from Brazil.

All with a bright yellow paint job that is visible at night, including the Aruba logo on the sides.

The first six buses are scheduled to reach Aruba end of July and the other buses in August 2019.

By the end of 2019, Arubus should have a float of 30 new buses.

All new buses have air conditioning, free wifi and wheelchair accessibility.

Paid Parking in Aruba

Parking in Aruba was always free, but it all changed in 2016 when paid parking was introduced in the downtown area.

However, in 2017 paid parking became a suggestion, not a must. And the yellow car wheel clamp was removed. But parking in permit spots (marked with yellow lines) is still not possible, and your car will be towed.

Now in 2019, Aruparking plans to introduce new rules: parking close to the downtown area will have a price. And free parking will be allowed, but further away from the main-street.


Aruba Summer Music Festival

Summer time is just around the corner, and one of the islands hottest music festivals is getting closer.

This year is going to be the 5th edition of Aruba’s Summer Music Festival.

It’s the largest festival in Aruba featuring Latin artists.

Who’s performing this year?

  • Silvestre Dangond
  • Farruko
  • Manuel Turizo
  • Ala Jaza
  • Jeon
  • Local Bands: Solo Banda Show & D-Licious

Aruba Summer Music Festival takes place 28 – 29 June, 2019.




Marco Antonio Solis Announces Concert in Aruba

The iconic Mexican singer-songwriter, Marco Antonio Solis, will perform all of his greatest hits live in Aruba this year.

Currently on tour in the US, the singer has a long list of Latin songs that make anyone dance and enjoy listening to.

Marco Solís was awarded five Latin Grammy Awards, has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and is inducted into the Billboard Latin Music Hall of Fame.

His concert in Aruba will be on November 10, 2019.

The last Latin artist to perform in Aruba was Ana Gabriel, back in May 2019.

Ticket prices and venue will be announced at a later date.

Rose All Day in Aruba

August 10 is going to be rosé all day in Aruba.

Renaissance island, also known as the flamingo island, has a rosé all experience for those who enjoy a glass of wine or champagne.

How does a rose all day look like in Aruba?

Private island. Beautiful weather. Beach. Stunning views. Music. Delicious food and drinking rosé all day.

The dress code for the rosé event is white & pink.

Tickets for this event are normally $40, but there’s an ongoing early bird sale for just $30 – special available until June 30, 2019. (Event is on August 10, 2019).

Admission to rosé all day includes a boat ride to Renaissance island, $10 wine credit, and a goody bag.

VIP packages are also included for six people at $600. This includes: butler service, snack platter, 2 wine bottles and a private cabana.

Tickets are available for sale at the Navigators Desk or Front Desk at Renaissance Marina Hotel. For more information or reservations call +297-523-6115.





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Read More About Aruba

7 Best Sunscreens To Use in Aruba After Harmful Sunblock Ban

Top 15 Must Have Items To Bring To The Beach in Aruba



We all know Aruba has warm weather, one thing you can’t forget about when traveling to the island is sunscreen. But what are the best sunscreens for Aruba you should look for?

In this article I’ll suggest the best sunscreens for Aruba after the recent ban of sunscreens containing harmful chemicals.

The Best Sunscreen in Aruba

Besides broad spectrum protection, high sun protection factor (SPF) and water resistance, you should look at other important factors when considering a sunscreen.

The best sunscreen for Aruba should be all of the above, including reef safe (no harmful chemicals), and safe for your own skin. 

Sunscreen Ban in Aruba

The government in Aruba announced the transition for a ban on sunscreens containing harmful ingredients as of January 1, 2019 and in full effect in 2020.

The harmful chemical that is banned is called Oxybenzone.

Oxybenzone is used in many traditional sunscreens as the main ingredient to block the suns dangerous rays from your skin.

However, oxybenzone is not the best choice when it comes to protection. Because it’s harmful to the corals and marine life. And it’s not healthy for your body.

Aruba Reef Safe Sunscreen

Consider buying reef safe sunscreens for Aruba.

Avoid sunscreens that include Oxybenzone, or other harmful chemicals. Instead look for sunscreens that use Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide as the active ingredient to block sun rays.

If you’re looking for the best sunscreen for Aruba, you should pick one that doesn’t include the ingredient Oxybenzone.  

Local Sunscreens in Aruba

Most sunscreens suggested in this article are available for sale on Amazon.

However, if you want to buy local sunscreens on the island and support local business in Aruba, here’s a few suggestions.

I Love Aruba Sunscreen

There’s I Love Aruba shops on the island that sell souvenirs from Aruba, including sunscreens.

Not only do they sell sunscreens, I love Aruba also has  with this logo on it has now started a line of sunscreen products, including aloe and after sun skin cream.

They are for sale at local supermarkets and gift shops near the hotel area.

Different i love Aruba sunscreens.

Aruba Aloe Sunscreen

Aruba Aloe sunscreen is formulated pure Aloe grown on the island and different vitamins. They also have after sun lotions you can use to stay hydrated for prolonged sun exposure.

Aruba Aloe has a production facility on the island with a store next to it. All aloe sunscreens are available for sale at local supermarkets or gift shops in the hotel area.


Let’s start with the brand name sunscreens you can find at your local store or online at Amazon that are reef safe. No oxybenzone, which is banned in Aruba. And you can safely use it without harming the ocean. marine life and your own skin. 

  1. Sunscreen For Active Travelers

Think sport sunscreen is perfect for active travelers who plan to spend a lot of time in the sun doing activities at the beach.

It does not contain harmful chemicals like oxybenzone, paraben, avobenzone or any other dangerous UV chemical absorbers.

Think sport is water resistant for 80 minutes, reef friendly and biodegradable. It has a SPF 50+ and it provides broad spectrum coverage.

Think sport is available for sale on Amazon.

  1. Sunscreen That Smells Delicious

Hint Sunscreen has a subtle fruit scent for those who love their sunscreen with a fragrance.

Scents are available in: pineapple, grapefruit or pear.

No paraben or oxybenzone are included in Hint Sunscreen.

It’s a spray on sunscreen that works with a compressed-air system with no propellant chemicals, this provides a natural feeling when applied to your skin. It dries fast and no greasy residue.

Hint Sunscreen has broad spectrum protection and SPF 30. It’s also water resistant.

I found Hint Sunscreen for sale online at Amazon.

  1. Sunscreen For Water Sport Enthusiast Lotion

Rocky Mountain Sunscreen is perfect for travelers who plan to do water sports activities while on vacation in Aruba.

It’s water resistant for up to 80 minutes.

This sunscreen is reef friendly and is free of oxybenzone, octinoxate or paraben. It’s has aloe to help protect and moisturize your skin.

It also has a handy clip to make it easier to carry around no matter where you go.

Rocky Mountain sunscreen is available for sale on Amazon.

  1. Sunscreen To Protect Kids

Banana Boat is among one of the best known brands when it comes to sunscreen.

It’s reef safe, water resistant and made without oxybenzone or octinoxate.

The spray on sunscreen applies quick and easy. It stays on your skin in 7 different conditions including: sun, pool water, ocean water, wind, sweat, sand and even 100-degree heat.

It has an SPF 50+ and broad spectrum protection.

Banana Boat Simply protect kids is available sale online at Amazon.

  1. Reef Safe Sunscreen

Coral Isle is a sunscreen that is reef friendly.

It’s free of oxybenzone, octinoxate, paraben fragrance and gluten.

The active ingredients to block the suns rays are: Avobenzone and Octocrylene. It’s not made with Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide, like other mineral sunscreens.

Coral Isle is water resistant for up to 80 minutes and has an SPF 50. It’s dermatologist-tested and fortified with aloe to help protect and moisturize skin.

You can find Coral Isle sunscreen for sale online at Amazon.

  1. Unscented Sunscreen

Badger sunscreen uses zinc oxide, a safe mineral as active ingredient to block sun rays.

It’s free of oxybenzone, octinoxate and other chemical active sun screening agents.

The sunscreen has an SPF 15, broad spectrum protection, water resistant for 40 minutes and biodegradable.

Badger sunscreen is also unscented.

You can buy Badger Sunscreen online at Amazon.

  1. Sunscreen For Sensitive Skin –  

Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen contains no chemical ingredients or fragrances that irritate your skin. This makes it ideal for travelers with sensitive skin.

It has an SPF 30+, broad spectrum protection and water resistant for up to 40 minutes.

Besides skin sensitive, it’s also reef safe – there’s no oxybenzone or octinoxate.

Zinc oxide is the mineral that provides protection against the sun.

Blue Lizard Sunscreen is available on Amazon.


How Much Sunscreen Should You use?

Sunscreen should be used as directed by the product manufacturer.

The general rule of thumb is to apply 15 minutes before you go in the sun. And you should re-apply sunscreen every 60-80 minutes, or each time you come out of the water. 

Other Ways To Protect Against The Sun

UV swim rash guards are one of the best alternatives against sunburns in the water.

Price For Brand Name Sunblocks in Aruba

If you decide not to pack sunblock what can you expect to pay for sun block in Aruba?

Prices will be $15 or more for average sized sunscreens.

Keep in mind that items purchased in a resort store have a higher price tag.

Final Thoughts

The sun in Aruba is strong. Even if it’s cloudy or you’re under a palapa, if you don’t wear sunblock you can get slightly sunburned, depending on how sensitive your skin is. 

Avoid any sunscreens with oxybenzone, look for reef safe alternatives.

The best sunscreens use Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide as the main ingredients to block harmful sun rays from your skin.



Did you know it’s now possible to get handmade local arts and crafts close to the cruise port?

This article gives you a little taste of the unique things you can do at this new art gallery kiosk in Aruba.

New Art Gallery in Aruba

The new art gallery is owned by Cosecha and it’s located inside a kiosk on the welcome plaza, right in front of the cruise port in Oranjestad (open 7 days a week 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM). 

Cosecha is an organization that represents local artisans by displaying their arts and crafts in their art galleries in Aruba.

This new kiosk functions both as an art gallery and an information center for other art galleries in Oranjestad & San Nicolas.

Local certified arts & crafts near the cruise port.

The kiosk is located at the welcome plaza, in front of the cruise port.

Purely Aruban Artwork

You feel the genuine Aruban identity transmitted by the local arts & crafts as soon as you step inside the kiosk.

Cosecha represents almost 70 local artisans in different aspects of art including mosaic, photography, hand painting, jewelry, handmade bags, driftwood, plastic and so much more different type of arts and crafts.

All the arts and crafts sold by Cosecha are genuine and authentic that are certified by a national seal of craftsmanship called “Seya National”.

buy-souvenirs-from-aruba

The seal of craftsmanship received with every purchase

The arts are unique and one of a kind. And the artwork is switched up in  the gallery once in a while to display different artisans.

Local Art in Aruba

Aruba’s artwork dates back to rock art and body painting performed by the native Indians inhabitants back then, way before tourism became a trend.

Today the tradition is carried on by native artisans that use raw ingredients found around the island to create unique crafts and colorful paintings.

Aruba is multicultural.

Different origins live on the island

Artisans with heritage from different countries around the world have taken their traditions and adapted these influences to reflect the “Aruba way of life”.

According to many artisans, Aruba is an island with magical places that inspires them to creatively to represent Aruba’s heritage in unique ways.

There’s a diverse range of undiscovered artwork and artists on the island.

Take a look at the following pictures that illustrate the local artistry…

Recycled bottles turned into artsy creations.

Scenic painting of the Alto Vista Chapel, a must visit spot!

A creative representation of traditional Aruban homes.

The traditional houses are also available as scale models made out of clay.

Sea bird on the beach, enjoying the island breeze and cruise ships.

Where To Buy Art in Aruba

There’s plenty of basic art pieces on the island, but if you want unique and handmade afts in Aruba look for art galleries from Cosecha.

Besides the new kiosk in front of the cruise port, you’ll find two art galleries by Cosecha in Oranjestad & San Nicolas.

The art gallery and store in Oranjestad is located on Zoutmanstraat #1. And the second art gallery and creative center is located in San Nicolas on Bernard van de Veen Zeppenfeldstraat #20.

Read this article to find out more about Cosecha art gallery store in Oranjestad here.

What To Bring Home from Aruba

Head over to one of Cosecha’s art galleries and shops if you’re in Aruba and want to get something handmade by local artisans.

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More Recommendations



Finding activities that are not exclusively catered to tourist may sound like a challenge, since Aruba is tourism oriented.

The island has plenty of activities for visitors, but if you know where to look, you’ll find non touristy things to do in Aruba.

If you’re looking for suggestions on local things to do in Aruba, you’re in the right place!




5 Non Touristy Things To Do in Aruba

Here’s a list of activities you can do that most visitors miss out on.

This list has suggestions that are season sensitive, depending when you visit Aruba, you can join the fun.

  1. Camp Like a Local

Camping is one of the most popular activities for locals during Easter holiday.

Similar to spring break in the US, camping season in Aruba is the time when locals enjoy a break from work, school, daily stress and just relax on the beach. 

Tents and gazebos on the beach, families and friends get together and spend quality time together.

Domino is the game to play during camping.

Camping is an old tradition. A part of the Catholic religion in Aruba celebrated during Lent. 

It started before tourism in Aruba became a trend.

The season starts one week before Easter, and continues one week after the holiday.

Camping is regulated by the Aruba government and monitored by the police. If you want to camp outside of Easter holiday, you have to ask for a permit at the local police station.

During camping season, you can pass by the camp sites, get to know and chat with the locals.

Camping is not for everyone, but if you enjoy the outdoors and sleeping under the stars, this might be for you.

Related Article – 15 Beach Item You Should Have on The Beach in Aruba




  1. Befriend a Local in Aruba

Want to get away from the tourist zone in Aruba and get a touch of the local feel?

One of the best things to do in this situation is to befriend a local.

The locals make this island so special.

Our Aruban hospitality is warm, friendly and happy.

When you get to know a local, chances are big that they will show you how they live, meet their families, eat a home cooked meal and show you around the island.

Many visitors have the best vacation experience in Aruba when they spend time with locals.

If you spend time in Aruba without befriending locals, you’re missing out on long lasting relationships every time you come back to the island.

Related Article – 21 Unique Activities in Aruba Most Visitors Usually Miss Out On

  1. Join a Carnival Parade

Carnival is celebrated all over the world, but in Aruba it’s one of a kind!

As the first week of January kicks in, the carnival season starts with a torch parade with several other day & night parades until March.

The tradition started way back in the 1950’s, and has carried on until this day. 

2019 was the 65th edition of the Aruba’s carnival.

During carnival season, you see thousands of participants in beautiful decorated costumes and gigantic floats. They move to the rhythm and beats of calypsos and road marches composed by local bands.

I was part of Carnival 65 with TOB Group.

Besides parades during carnival, there’s also music competitions, queen elections and festivals.

Carnival in Aruba attracts thousands of visitors.

Tourist are known to watch the carnival parades, but how about switching it up and actually participating in the parades, between the locals?

It’s more fun if you’re in the parade compared to watching it from the sidelines….

  1. Hike Trails in Arikok

You might not have hiking on your to do list when in Aruba, but that is exactly the point – non tourist activities!

Why not hike to only national park (Arikok) in Aruba?

Arikok is a natural reserve that covers nearly 20% of Aruba. With such a large undiscovered terrain, you’ll probably have the entire park to yourself.

Hiking the trails of Arikok is an activity that will separate you from all the other visitors on the island.

It’s the place to go to if you want to find out what’s hidden at the countryside and connect with nature.

There’s over 29 rugged miles of rocky trails available for hiking at Arikok.

Hiking tours under guidance of a park ranger are highly recommended. But if you’re brave enough to take on the jagged and rocky terrain, you’re in for a surprise.

There’s several beautiful sites, natural wonders, and beaches to explore inside Arikok.

Beautiful landscape in Arikok.

As a local, I enjoy hiking at Arikok and connecting with nature every time I get the chance.

Related Article – Follow my recent hiking journey inside Arikok and I Discover Aruba’s Country Side.

Take your mind of the commercial attractions on the island and hike the sands. You’ll be rewarded by amazing views and will discover  new things along your hiking trail.

  1. Cheer for Local Sport Clubs

If you’re looking for out of the ordinary activities in Aruba consider cheering for a local sporting club and watch a game!

The most popular sports in Aruba are soccer and baseball.

Drive around the island and you’ll find several fields where you can watch a game.

One of the most popular fields to watch baseball is “Veld di Winston”, which is located on the main road through the district of Santa Cruz.

Don’t worry about getting weird looks when showing up at the field, because locals appreciate visitors who are interested and support sport in Aruba.

Want to know when baseball games are on in Aruba?

Search on Facebook for a page called “Baseball Aruba” and get to know where and when.

Don’t be surprised if you see an agent scouting local talents to sign to international teams. Because the island has talented players who can make it in the big leagues.

Here’s a list of recent Aruban players who made it to the major league baseball in the US :

  • Eugene Kingsale
  • Calvin Maduro
  • Sidney Ponson
  • Radhames Dykhoff
  • Xander Bogaerts

Watch a local game, maybe you will witness a young aspiring player that will be playing in the future for the mayor leagues.




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More Recommendations



Hiking is not the first thing on your mind when you vacation in Aruba, but a cooling dip in turquoise waters and drinking rum punch at the beach bar sounds more like a tropical get away, right?

Although this looks like the way to go when in Aruba, there’s much more to experience than white beach sand and colorful drinks. Because miles away from the swaying palm trees is a stark and barren country side most visitors never get to see known as, Arikok National Park.

One usually visits Arikok with jeep tours, but this time I took the road less traveled and hiked the sands!

If you already did the jeep tour through the national park or never been before, let me show you what I found on my hiking adventure.




Discover The Country Side

As the sun started rising, I stood on a hill north coast of the island, overlooking Rancho Daimari, one of the oldest and largest coconut plantations in Aruba.

Rancho Daimari was named after a nearby secluded beach named Daimari bay, located within the Arikok National Park. 

This view is just, wow!

Hiking the sandy paths and rocky trails of Daimari, I noticed phenomenal natural wonders only found off the beaten path in Aruba.

As I got closer to the coastline of Daimari, I could smell the sea salt in the air, and feel the hard blowing wind everyone comes to love once on the island.

The coastline of Aruba is beautiful.

Exploring The North side Coastlines

Alongside the windward coastlines one will encounter local flora and fauna. The North side of the island is dotted with cactus and over 50 different species of tree’s. Cacti are important to the survival of different animals, especially for birds, because the fruits they produce are a main source of food. 

Walking further down the coastline you encounter Dos Playa, one of the many different bays, locally known as boca’s.

Boca’s are small inlets connected to the ocean at the beginning of dry riverbeds.

Standing near a boca is a spectacular sight – watching waves crash against the rocky shores that have done so for hundreds of years before we were born.

Dos Playa Beach.

The trail alongside the coast line after Dos Playa leads to a large sand dune.

Sand dunes are important for several birds known to nest and is a habitat for many animals living inside of the national park. The sand dunes are protected by law, and it’s not allowed to drive on them with any motorized vehicle.

Hike the sands in Aruba

Don’t drive on Aruba’s sand dunes.

After hiking for over an hour, I made it to Moro, one of the other Boca’s, but unique because it has two inlets and there’s a giant limestone rock in the middle formed like Aruba, when you see it from above. Locals know this place as Klein Aruba, Dutch for Small Aruba.

A well needed break after hiking for about an hour.

Inside Arikok National Park

Arikok is dessert like, with high hills, big rocks and secret caves.

The national park was established in 2000 to protect and preserve almost 34 square kilometers of flora, fauna, geology, and historical remains in Aruba.

Inside Arikok one will find two of the tallest hills on the island, Arikok Hilltop and Jamanota Hill, which is 188 meters, the highest point in Aruba. Standing on this hill gives you a panoramic view of the island, you won’t find anywhere else. 

Arikok National Park has a visitor centre, housing a large variety of educational and informational programs. The visitor centre is the starting point of all guided tours and over 29 miles of hiking trails.

Entrance inside the national park from the visitors centre is $11.00

Enjoying Natural Pool

Finally, after passing Moro, I made it to Natural Pool, to cool off from the blazing heat. 

The natural pool is one of the most sought after attraction by locals and visitors who end up exploring the national park. Most people know the natural pool as Conchi, but the real secret name is, “turtle pen” , because sea turtles used to swim in the pool before it became popular.

If you’ve never been to the Arikok National park, or only experienced it in a jeep tour, I recommend you to get to know the park by hiking the sands.

Standing on top of a giant rock at the natural pool.

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ORANJESTAD (August 12, 2018) – Once a week, on Sundays I write about the most relevant and interesting happenings on the island in my weekly newsletter.

This weeks edition features the top news headlines in Aruba.

Subscribing to my newsletter is an ideal way to stay up to date with what’s going on in Aruba – whether you’re living on the island, miles away or your first visit!  

If this is your first time reading my newsletter – welcome!

Four New Possible Ramsar Sites in Aruba

Nature in Aruba gets another win after four new areas on the island were signaled for possibly being officially claimed as ramsar sites.

What is a ramsar site?

Ramsar sites are protected wetlands that have a high biodiversity of flora and fauna.

Aruba only has one official ramsar site which is the Spaans Lagoon.

The four locations which can possibly be ramsar sites are:

  • Bubali Plas
  • Isla Di Oro (Mangel Halto)
  • Reefs in Oranjestad
  • Reefs in San Nicolas.

Why is it important to protect these areas as ramsar sites?

Because experts indicated that these areas are important to feed the animals that live in this habitat. To put it in perspective, there’s over 200 bird species living in Bubali Plas (great place for bird watching). All over the island you will find more species of animals, so protecting them is very important. 


Talks About Marine Park

Aruba is surrounded by amazing blue oceans and a marine environment that’s unique around the world.

To protect the island’s unique underwater environment, the government wants to implement a marine park.

What’s a marine park?

A marine park is a new law that will help conserve Aruba’s ocean and the marine species (including corals) that lives within and rely on these habitats.

The new marine park will be implemented soon in Aruba, it’s almost official.

The law to officially make this happen is now at the government advisory board which is in charge of the legislative process, according to the minister of environment.

At least three zones were already mentioned to be protected:

  • Druif beach
  • Boca grandi
  • Rodgers beach
  • Mangel halto
  • Isla di oro.

Of course a the list of protected fora and fauna will be updated with new species.





New Farming Project In Aruba

Aruba is making the first step in revolutionizing the farming industry in the Caribbean.

The minister of primary sector held a press conference this week to announce they have approved Vertical Designs Aruba (VDA) to build a vertical farming project in Aruba, using Affinor Growers company’s vertical farming technology.

Who is Affinor Growers?

Affinor is the only vertical farming technology company offering solutions for both indoor controlled growing and the greenhouse agriculture industry.

They are going to build a farm using vertical growing technologies. This will allow them to produce crops (romaine lettuce, spinach, strawberries and other local procuce) year around on land that, previously, could not be utilized for farming (considering the islands climate).

This project moves Aruba a step closer to producing its own fruits and vegetables, and not be depend on importation anymore.

Read More About Aruba – 5 Travel Hacks For Discount Flights To Aruba

More Details About The Fast Ferry Project

It looks like we will be able to visit our neighbouring islands (Bonaire & Curacao) in the near future, because the stakeholders for the fast ferry project are pushing for it be possible.

Price wise the fast ferry is interesting. According to stakeholders the cost of the ferry can be almost half the cost of what the airlines charge to fly between the islands. 

If the price really comes down to half the price this will make it affordable if you have a big group wanting to visit Bonaire or Curacao (which is going to be a different experience, very unique mode of transportation).

It’s estimated that the fast ferry will be in service by the end of 2019.

Maybe thinking about extending your vacation days in Aruba is a good thing for next year if you want to take a trip on the ferry.


Tony Roma’s in Aruba Closing Down

Did you hear the news? I’m shocked also.

It’s true.

Tony Roma’s in Palm Beach will be closing down after 25+ years of service.

Their last serving will be on August 31, 2018 at 11:00 PM.

It’s sad to see this place go, but there are other local places on the island that serve delicious BBQ, especially on Sundays.


New Gas Price

If you plan on renting a car and cruise around the island take note of the new gas prices.

As of August 8, 2018 the prices are now:

  • Gasoline 217.1 Aruban cents for one liter (+2.3 cent) ($4.58 per gallon)
  • Diesel 184.6 Aruban cents for one liter (-0.1 cent) ($3.91 per gallon)

Don’t know who to rent a car from? Use one of my personal car rental recommendations

Pro Am Golf Tournament in Aruba

One of Aruba’s premier golfing tournament is about to start!

The idea of the pro-am tournament is to partner up professional and amateur golfers into teams to compete in a 36-hole tournament.

The event will be held at the Tierra del Sol golf course that has a jaw dropping view of the rugged northern coast of the island.

Date of the event – August 24 – 26, 2018

Even if you don’t plan on playing, this tournament is entertaining to watch and socialize on the island.

There’s going to be brunch buffets on each of the tournament days, BBQ party and open bar.

Aruba’s Annual Culinary Week

It’s almost time again to enjoy delicious three course menus from the top restaurants on the island for a special price!

Experience fine dining without spending hundreds of dollars

Restaurant week in Aruba will take place on August 29 – September 5, 2018.

Nine restaurants will be participating at this event and all of them offer something special:

  • Tango Argentine Grill
  • Café the Plaza
  • Fishes & More
  • Qué Pasa
  • Moomba Beach
  • Salt & Pepper
  • Dragonfly
  • Nos Clubhuis
  • Hadicurari

The 3 course menus are priced at $20.00 and $26.00.

This years rataurant week is special, because part of the profits will go to an elderly home in Aruba (Maris Stella).




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How To Get More News About Aruba

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Sign up now by typing in your email in the opt in form below.


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