Come on pretty mama … go to Aruba
Eagle Beach, Aruba.
“Aruba, Jamaica, oh I want to take ya…come on pretty mama…”
This is the song that came to my mind every time someone mentioned Aruba in the past. The Beach Boys might have known there was something special about the island...
Aruba's famous natural pool (Conchi) is a unique rock formation, volcanic stone circles that creates a tranquil pool.
They call it “ The Aruba Effect”
I personally had no expectations when my friends and I decided to go on a spontaneous weekend getaway to Aruba, other than the usual beach vibes and a vague knowledge that the island is a constituent country of the Netherlands*.
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Aruba may be best known for its beautiful scenery and perfect weather, the typical vacation destination island with its white sand beaches, palm trees, aqua blue ocean and a laissez faire attitude. Although very condensed in surface (the island is only 20 miles/32 km long and 6 miles/10 km across at its widest point), with a population of just over 105,000, on the surface Aruba has nothing to envy compared to other tropical destinations.
Arashi Beach, Aruba.
But the islanders are a major part of the positive vibes that radiate through the island and their chill attitude is contagious. They are not only nice, but actually welcoming to tourists who in return feel privileged to be temporary guests in this paradise sanctuary. Whether you take food recommendations from islanders to eat fresh seafood at the local restaurant serving the catch of the day, visit the flamingo sanctuary, take a catamaran ride along the island, go over the natural bridges and coves, or just enjoy sunbathing at the beach - the simple pleasures of the island will make you feel miles away from reality.
San Nicolas, the cultural capital of Aruba features many murals painted by local and international artists.
The most interesting thing for me was the intriguing language spoken by the locals. It sounded familiar at first but then I quickly realized it was nothing I had ever heard before. The official language of the island is Dutch. English and Spanish are also spoken but the islanders speak Papiamento which is a combination of Dutch, Spanish, Portuguese, English and Indian languages. It was fascinating to hear, there is something magical about the hint of familiarity in the language that makes you feel welcome.
Catamarans are easily booked at any beaches for a ride with a beautiful viewpoint of the island.
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The happy islanders, the warm and welcoming culture and the beautiful beaches are only a part of what makes Aruba unique. Whether you seek peace and tranquility, excitement and adventure or a romantic getaway, the happy island has got you covered.
“The Aruba Effect - an overwhelming sense of happiness that comes from being welcomed into an experience that just feels… perfect.”
Flamingo sighting at Aruba Private Islands and Renaissance & De Palm Island.
*For historical context, Aruba’s earliest known inhabitants were the Arawak Indians from Venezuela. The Island was claimed by Spain in 1499 and was then taken by the Dutch in 1636. The British took control of the island during the Napoleonic war but the Netherlands took it back in 1816. Aruba officially became part of the Netherlands Antilles in 1845.
Photos: Becky Cameron, Aruba Tourism
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