It’s been a long time since I put together a little video footage of Aruba. So here’s one. It starts on the south end of the island, looking off Colorado point. Then takes a look at Baby Beach, the former Esso Colony and refinery. You’ll see Roger’s Beach, too, and Lourdes Grotto. Then it skips up to the middle of the island at Arikok National Park. From there see a small church in Piedra Plat then Eagle Beach, Arashi Beach, and finally California Lighthouse. Here it is.
Bon dia from Aruba.
Those seeking comfortable accommodations away from the big hotels should consider Buffam’s Tropical Haven in Aruba. There are only three rooms to rent and the owners live on the premises. A friend of mine introduced me to this place, and I’m glad he did, because people frequently contact me in search of alternatives to the usual hotels here on the island. Add Buffam’s Tropical Haven to your list. (By the way, there are many more and much better photos on their website which is posted below.)
There are comfortable common areas such as this covered space:
If you want to go for a dip to cool off, a pleasant pool awaits.
Don’t miss those big, comfortable chairs in the back there, a great place to relax, read a book, and recharge. Each room features a fridge, modest cooking facilities, and a well appointed bathroom. (Your average big hotel is going to charge mightily for such amenities, especially the fridge where you can stock your own goodies at regular prices instead of the exorbitant mini-bar rates.) Here’s a snap of one of the rooms.
There’s plenty of space to spread out and join friends around the table. With the owner’s on site, you have that extra measure of service should some small need arise. And since there are only three rooms, the place can not be crowded. The small touches count here, including the decorations, such as this pair of planters:
Little things mean a lot to travelers, and I think you will find the little things in ample supply at Buffam’s. Check out their website for more details at www.buffamstropicalhaven.com.
Bon dia from Aruba.
Here in Aruba, there are several “natural bridges.” They are natural stone bridges which have been undermined by the constant wave action of the Caribbean pounding against the shore. The largest of them collapsed in 2004. Immediately beside the site of that one, is a smaller one, somewhat interesting to view. More interesting to me, was the discovery of this display case in the gift shop at the Natural Bridge site.
That’s right, it’s full of Coca-Cola memorabilia. I’ve been in and out of this place at least a dozen times, yet never noticed this before. How could that be? Perhaps it is new. I asked but did not receive a good explanation. Either way, it is chock full of various items from Coca-Cola, and I suggested they move it forward so that visitors might better gaze up on the treasures therein.
If you come to Aruba, visit the natural bridge, and happen to stop in for an ice-cold Coca-Cola, don’t miss this little museum. There’s also a number of other things on view, including money from around the world, various trinkets to be bought, and a few tasty food items.
Bon dia from Aruba.
Papillon is located in the new “Village” commercial area, across the street from the Radisson Hotel along Aruba’s Palm Beach.
Most of the seating is outside, however, there are a few small tables inside. I prefer to eat inside but this time I took a seat outside, which turned out to be okay as the breeze was gentle and cool. There were three of us, each with different tastes. Escargot is a favorite, and upon finding it on the menu, it was ordered by one of our group. Here’s the presentation.
That was different and the flavor was very good. I ordered a salad, which was full of delicious bits including shaved cheeze, walnuts, and such. Here it is.
Then came the entrées. The salmon was ordered and reported to be delicious, and it can be seen below.
Then there was the duck in a nice sauce as seen here.
Those little potato croquettes served with the duck were a fresh touch. I went with a tried and true filet, which was cooked exactly right.
Service at Papillon was professional and attentive. Wines were had by the glass and they were worthy of the prices. The cost of eating here is at the very upper limit of my budget. For a special night out, it was worth it.
Bon dia from Aruba.
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