Iguana Hatchery

Aruba is well known for its many iguanas. If you like to observe large numbers of these creatures in action, head over to the Seaport Marina, out by the ocean. You’ll find herds of them in various sizes like this one:

It seems he’s guarding his post there by the sea. He wasn’t alone, either. I counted at least another ten, and after a short walk toward the Renaissance timeshare building, there were probably another ten. If you have your kids along for a visit to Aruba it would be good material for a little science report. I once read that iguanas can become addicted to lettuce and end up killing themselves by not eating other matter with more nutritional value. Incredible. Bon dia.

Published in: on October 9, 2011 at 11:08 am  Leave a Comment  
Tags: , , , , , , ,

Flying over the C&D Canal

When flying to and from Delaware, eastern Maryland, and points beyond, I like to use the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal as a waypoint. It runs a line from east to west and is punctuated by a number of distinct bridges. Thus, it makes for an easily recognizable ground reference point so you know where you are when flying. Here’s a video looking down at the canal from 3,500 feet.

The canal was muddy from all the rain we’ve had in the area. Nearly two weeks straight of off and on showers. Finally the sun came out and we’ve been able to get some flying done. Don’t forget the checklist!

Corner by the Sea

Before obtaining my shack in Aruba, I used to stay at the Aruba Beach Chalets, which have been shown on The Bent Page a few times. Well, here’s another view, this one from above.

It is the red tile roof building directly on the sea. Some friends will be staying there in a few months. We enjoy sitting on the deck, chatting over coffee in the morning, looking out at the sea from this little corner of the world in Savaneta, Aruba. When you’re in a place like this, it’s easy to forget about the rest of the world. As long as you have the basics, there isn’t much to worry about.

Back Roads Spain, review

Back Roads Spain is a book published by DK Eyewitness Travel. I’ve used their travel books many times, especially when planning my trips to the Iberian Peninsula. The “back roads” collection is designed to take the traveller a little deeper in-country, something that is right up my alley. Here’s a brief video review of the book:

Let me emphasize the photographs and illustrations in this book. The street maps show a walking tour with sites of interest highlighted. Sometimes there are three dimensional renderings of a cathedral or winery, which prove irresistible. You want to see the real thing after peering into such well-presented images. The driving routes definitely take you into the countryside, which, having driven extensively in Spain, can be frustrating. However, with a decent guide and fair warning of what to expect, you’re sure to enjoy yourself.

Published in: on October 6, 2011 at 10:21 am  Leave a Comment  
Tags: , , , , , ,