Closer Than You Think

If you’re staying at the Renaissance Hotel in Aruba, you’ll find a pool on what is the second floor. I posted about this location before, but couldn’t resist snapping another photo because there was a cruise ship just across the way. Take a look.

Imagine yourself sprawled on a lounger, drink in hand, a good book in the other hand, and this is your view. Quite nice. Then, when it gets a little too warm, you simply slip into the pool for a refreshing dip. Perhaps you hang out on the edge, watching the passengers come and go on the street below. Either way, it’s a comfortable spot, and much closer than you think.

Bon dia.

Published in: on February 6, 2011 at 10:57 pm  Leave a Comment  
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Balashi Chill

Aruba’s Balashi Brewery seems to have a hit on their hands in the form of their new brew named “Balashi Chill.” Here’s a look at the bottle.

As you can see, it is served with a slice of lime as in the case of other tropical beers. My friends at Charlie’s Bar report brisk sales with customers well-satisfied by the flavor. Because I’m not a beer drinker I can not personally report on this. However, that’s a good reason for you to swing down to Aruba and give Chill a try.

Bon dia.

Published in: on February 4, 2011 at 10:56 am  Leave a Comment  
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When the chips…

…are up, or down? I can’t remember. However, I did find this casino chip from the Casablanca Casino in Aruba while sorting through some old travel memorabilia. The Casablanca was in the Hilton Hotel on Palm Beach when I first entered. The hotel went on to become a Wyndham and now it is a Westin. Here’s look at the chip.

$25 that thing was worth. I’m sure I used it on the craps table back in 1994, when I arrived in Aruba for the first time. Gambling is one bad habit I’ve given up. Those casinos aren’t built by the winners. I’d rather spend the money on fine food.

Published in: on January 28, 2011 at 9:58 pm  Leave a Comment  
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Windows on Aruba

Windows on Aruba is a restaurant located at the Divi Links complex in the low-rise area. It’s on the third floor with a view looking over the golf-course, and if you’re at the right table, to sea. For some reason, I never made the time to have a nice supper here. Well, at last, I took a table and was thoroughly impressed. In the first place, the staff greets you warmly. I always appreciate this, especially when they take me to a table in a spot from which the outdoor surroundings can be surveyed or the interior of the room. Either one is fine. I happily accepted a table with both. We promptly ordered as the menu is clearly explained and the wait staff hovers nearby. (Please note there is a good wine list as well.)

Starting with my usual salad, I was presented with this combination of fresh greens, vegetables, and homemade dressing.

Crunchy, fresh, satisfying as you can see in the photo. My wife enjoyed the ravioli drizzled with a truffle sauce that she reports as “awesome.” See here.

Excellent presentation, which adds to the experience. On that note, take a look at the lamb dish she ordered for the main course.

And the filet mignon that came for me, which lurks beneath that finely woven potato thing, the name of which I do not know.

The daubs of mashed potatoes on the left reminded me of crop circles. The kitchen staff deserves kudos for (k)creativity. Of course there was dessert.

Above you see a Bailey’s chocolate mousse with mint ice-cream. She says the mint ice-cream tasted like the real deal, too. I kept it simple with chocolate ice-cream and an ice-cold Coca-Cola. They slipped me a few brownies as you can see below. Perfect touch.

There you have it, a fine meal in a great setting with talented service. Everything you’d want in a meal. The portions are slightly smaller than one might expect. However, the benefit of this was the ease with which dessert was consumed and the comfortable walk to the car afterwards. If you’re in Aruba, I would recommend a reservation at this place.

Published in: on January 4, 2011 at 4:31 pm  Comments (1)  
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