Eagle Beach, Aruba

Eagle Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Aruba. The sand here is powder soft. The Caribbean Sea that laps the shore is bath-water warm. This photo is taken from far away simply to show the expanse of the beach, which goes on for a couple of miles.

As you can see toward the left of the frame, there are number of palapa huts set up if you want to get out of the sun. Further down, there is only sand and more sand. Notice there is a gentle swell to the sea. Most of the time in Aruba, this is what it is like. You can swim or float along at your leisure.

In the distance you’ll see a tower crane that stands at a location where another condo project is being built. Don’t let this discourage you. The beach does get crowded from time to time, but that is only an opportunity to make new friends and share the relaxation of coming to a place like Aruba.

As always, enjoy your vacation responsibly. Go with the flow, be prepared for diversions, and remember you’re here for the fun of it.

Published in: on July 10, 2008 at 1:21 pm  Comments (2)  
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Motorcycles, Island Style

If you like to tour on motorcycles, you’ll find a couple of operations on the island of Aruba that can set you up with a rig. There is a Harley-Davidson dealer as well as an independent operator who is located at the Paseo Herencia Mall by the large hotels. You can rent motorcycles as well as go on a guided tour with a guy who knows the island inside and out. Here’s a photo of his bikes:

The tour usually starts on the north end of the island, heads up to the lighthouse at California point where you’ll have a great view of the Caribbean. Then you’ll motor south, check out some local spots, great scenery, possibly stop in to a local fisherman’s wharf. Eventually you’ll work you way into San Nicolaas, my favorite town, and stop at Charlie’s Bar. From there, you’re on your own and it’s easy to find your way back. Then again, half the fun may be getting lost. You’ll only have a great time. On this island, you can’t go wrong.

As things progress here at the Bent Page, I’ll continue to add more photos and descriptions of activities, restaurants, and things to see in Aruba. Please let me know of your own experiences of if I’ve left anything out.

Published in: on July 9, 2008 at 8:55 pm  Comments (1)  
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Cassave Chips

I have to admit to being a potato chip junkie. One day I was looking for some really delicious homemade potato chips when I came across Cassave Chips. This was on the island of Aruba, where I happen to be right now. Anway, I bought a bag of these things, which come from Surinam. Here’s a look at the bag:

Notice the bag has been opened. No, I couldn’t wait to take the photo without crunching into one of these bad boys. These chips are harder than potato chips, as well as slightly thicker. They have a mild sweetness to the aftertaste that comes through the initial salt very well. I should mention the flavor is more subtle than plantain chips. These things are perfect with sandwiches, crumbled into a salad, anywhere that needs a little extra texture.

Of course be sure to do what my cardiologist advised: Pre-pay your open heart surgery. This way the price is fixed and you’re good to go. Eating stuff like this can not be good for the cholesterol.

Published in: on July 9, 2008 at 3:33 pm  Comments (1)  
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Please, Ring the Bell!

My favorite daytime hangout in Aruba is Charlie’s Bar on Main Street, San Nicolaas. I’ve mentioned it before, talked about Charlie and said a few other things as well. This time, let’s take a look at a few detail shots of the place. In the first place, there is the bell hanging in the middle of the bar. Please, ring the bell, especially if you see me sitting there. You’ll have the pleasure of buying everyone seated at the bar a drink. In due course, someone will return the favor, until… hmm…. we’ve all taken a turn. Here’s the bell.

 You would be surprised at the effectiveness of this action when it comes to making friends. We’ll all cheer. We’ll all salute your generosity, your good looks, and the brilliance of your children should you have any. You will have joined the company of legions to have passed through this place and had a similar honor. Seriously now, there’s nothing wrong with having a few beverages among strangers that share the company of a good story or two. Besides, no harm done, aside of a little ding to the wallet.

Around the bar you’ll find quite a lot of junk and I use that term affectionately. Among the various objects you’ll find a large bulletin board like structure that holds patches from just about every fire department, law enforcement agency, prison, plumber and tradesman. Here’ a look at that.

That totem pole, wacky T-shirt, and old license plates will also hold your attention for hours if you’re not careful. And then there is the honeymoon sauce as advertised by this sign hanging from the ceiling.

Please note the warning below. The sauce is great for eggs, steaks, anything you want to put some zing into. People gobble it up while dining at the bar. A little goes a long way.

Finally, there is my beverage of choice. It is a simple one that I alternately call agua bendita (holy water) or tooth varnish. Jack Daniel’s mixed with club soda and plenty of ice. That hits the spot when I’m not in the mood for an ICE COLD Coca-Cola. A photo, just for the memories.

 What’s your favorite beverage while on vacation or simply to relax? Let me know. Don’t forget. Please ring the bell!

(By the way, did you ever see a 25 – denomination note for another currency?)


Published in: on July 8, 2008 at 9:34 pm  Comments (2)  
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