Paseo Herencia, Aruba

One shopping alternative near the high-rise hotels is the Paseo Herencia Mall, which was completed recently. Almost all the stores are active now. You can buy sneakers, jewelry, local crafts, high-end lingerie, watches, clothing of all types, and more. Here’s a look at one of the entrances.

There are several restaurants here, too. Mr. Jazz is a club where you can hear live music. A multi-screen movie theatre is tucked upstairs. The popcorn and soda is priced reasonably, I might add, unlike in the United States. Here’s another look, this time at the interior of the plaza.

The central fountain helps keep the place cool and sometimes bands set up here. Other cultural events ranging from dance show to historical displays are put on as well. The guy who gives the motorcycle tours of the island is located on the outer edge of the mall. He’s usually there in the evenings, during which you can make your reservation and check out his bikes.

This is just one of several shopping areas found on Aruba. I’ll post more photos and details over the coming weeks. Stay tuned.

Published in: on July 10, 2008 at 3:49 pm  Leave a Comment  
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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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