Eagle Beach, Aruba (video)

Eagle Beach is one of the largest and best beaches in Aruba, if not the entire Caribbean. As the number of hotels and condos has increased in Aruba, people talk about the beaches getting crowded. Sometimes they are crowded but many times, as you’ll see in this video, there is more than enough space. Take a look:

As you can see, there was hardly anyone on the beach. This video was taken on a Friday, about the middle of the morning. All you need to enjoy Eagle Beach is suntan lotion, a towel, and the right attitude. May I recommend a good book?

Bon dia from Aruba.

Published in: on November 16, 2008 at 11:25 am  Leave a Comment  
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Chez Matilde, Aruba, (lunch)

Chez Matilde in Oranjestaad, Aruba, is a fantastic restaurant. Period. I’ve dined here many times for lunch and dinner. It has always been excellent in terms of food, service, and ambiance. It is located one block behind L.G. Smith Boulevard, the main thoroughfare that separates town from the waterfront. Here’s a video of the restaurant and our lunch:

Matilde runs a lunch special feature which offers any soup and sandwich or any soup and salad at a very reasonable price given the quality and atmosphere. You may also choose from the dinner menu. As for evening meals, this is a smart place to dine with that special someone. An extensive wine list is available to go with the creative dishes. The staff here is the equal of any major-city restaurant, without the pretentiousness that sometimes comes with that type of place. In other words, you can have a great meal with spot on service without feeling like Miss Manners is hovering over your shoulder.

I try to visit Chez Matilde at least once each for lunch and supper during my stays in Aruba. I recommend the same for anyone coming to the island.

Published in: on November 15, 2008 at 10:48 am  Leave a Comment  
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A Peek At Venezuela (from Aruba)

On a clear day, you can see Cerro Santa Ana in Venezuela from Aruba. I took this video from Savaneta Beach, which is only a few hundred yards from my house. Take a look.

There are people who wind and kite surf between Venezuela and Aruba. This is an impressive feat. Not something I would try, not without a waterproof passport. Still, it could be fun. Remember to enjoy your watersports and international relations responsibly.

Bon dia (again) from Aruba.

Published in: on November 14, 2008 at 12:31 pm  Leave a Comment  
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Alto Vista Chapel, Aruba

The Alto Vista Chapel in Aruba overlooks the Caribbean Sea on the east side of the island. This quaint place of worship is unique on the island. There are many larger churches scattered about, but this one stands off by itself. Here’s a short video to give you and idea of the place.

Still an active place of worship, the Alto Vista Chapel also hosts weddings and other religious ceremonies. It is a stop on many of the regular island tours as well as a popular destination for people to come and pay their respects. It had been a location in my novel, An Island Away, but was cut from the final draft. I’m working to include it in the sequel, Under A Blue Flag, but we’ll see.

Bon dia from Aruba!

Published in: on November 12, 2008 at 11:17 am  Leave a Comment  
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