From the start of this post, let me ask for forgiveness from my Spanish speaking friends. I don’t remember the correct terminology for the food I enjoyed in Spain. Thus, I’ll use English words and let the pictures show the dishes.
In general, I found the usual fare to be usually good. That is to say regular meals, nothing fancy or expensive, were generally tasty and well presented. For example, at the Molino de Santillan, where we stayed for a night, we ordered supper from the menu of the day. For appetizers we started with a field green salad as seen in the next photo.
Note the vivid freshness of the contents above. The other appetizer is a pair of fried eggs with fried bread crumbs. This was unusual for me as I normally eat eggs for breakfast. The flavor couldn’t be beat because they used sausage or something mixed in with the breadcrumbs for extra flavor. Take a look.
Those grapes were a nice touch, too, adding a bit of sweetness to the plate. For the main course we both ordered the pork medallions with potatoes. As I said, a regular dish which is shown below.
Let me say that it was filling and fortifying, two things you need when your days are filled with activity. But it doesn’t end there. Molino de Santillan offered a breakfast spread that I found in most of the small hotels where I stayed. There’s meats and cheeses, coffee and juice, fruit and cereal. Take a look.
All in all, this is what you can expect when gallivanting about Spain, staying in small hotels, and eating accordingly. Don’t miss any meals!
Usual Fare, Usually Good
Buffam’s Tropical Haven, Aruba, DWI
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.
Tamarijn Resort, Aruba
The Tamarijn Resort in Aruba is located along the “low-rise” hotel portion of the island. The rooms are literally on the beach. The staff is friendly and helpful. And there is a shuttle service that will connect you to other Divi owned properties. Take a look at the video.
I held a book signing here for An Island Away. The staff was incredibly gracious, supported the effort with announcements, and steered people to my table with a warm smile. This type of hospitality is what put Aruba on the map as a favorite destination in the Caribbean.
Enjoy your stay and don’t forget the sunscreen. Bon dia from Aruba.
Westin Hotel, Aruba
The Westin Hotel in Aruba was one of the first high rises on Palm Beach. It started out as the Concorde, and along the way has been a Hilton, a Wyndham, and now the Westin. I stayed here in the 1990’s and a friend of mine also did as recently as March of 2008. Here’s a look at the main building.
The rooms here were recently remodeled. Most have a great view either up or down Palm Beach. The balconies are little small but with room enough for two people to enjoy a beverage as the sun rises or sets. I enjoy coming to the lobby bar where the service is exceptional and the drinks spot on.
Normally, I don’t like television screens in a bar, especially a lobby bar, but thanks to the good company and service I manage to ignore these. There’s also a nice place for informal gathering as shown below.
There are several restaurants in this hotel including Pago Pago, Blossoms, and a breakfast buffet on the lower level. There’s also a slew of shops featuring everything from cigars to clothing to jewelry on the same lower level. Naturally there are a pair of large fresh water swimming pools as shown here.
There’s plenty of room to have fun with your friends and family. Plus, they host water aerobics, water volleyball, and things of that nature for the athletically inclined. For the rest of us, there are a pair of bars close by to ensure proper hydration. Then there is Palm Beach, just on the other side of the pool.
Pull up a chair, a good book, and enjoy the sun. The sand is powder soft, the breeze steady, and the possibilities endless for proper relaxation. Isn’t that why you came to Aruba in the first place?
The Bent Page 
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