Velazquez Sky

Much of the year, in most of Spain, you’ll find a blue sky like no other.

You see it there above the mountains as I’m rolling down this stretch of road on the way to Ronda. The air is dry, the sun warm, the terra firma solid under foot. Sure, you’ll have overcast rainy days, but many more are just like the one above.

There is that blue sky again, this time at dusk over Trujillo. Note the castle looming over the plaza mayor. Taking photos in Spain is easy given that warm light. You average consumer digital camera captures scenes with no worries using the automatic settings.

Published in: on July 19, 2010 at 4:27 pm  Leave a Comment  
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Things Get Fuzzy…

…when you’re in Aruba. You go for a walk on the beach. You have a few drinks. You catch some sun. The next thing you know, you’re relaxed, no worries, not a care in the world aside of where to have supper.

Anyway, this lady had the right idea. Reading a book, letting the world go by, and enjoying a Sunday morning in high Caribbean Style. If the photo above is a little fuzzy, you need a vacation. Right NOW!

Published in: on July 18, 2010 at 2:21 pm  Leave a Comment  
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Club Arias, Aruba

In Savaneta, Aruba, you’ll find a bed and breakfast type of establishment called Club Arias. It’s easy to find. If you’re headed south from the airport, continue on the main road until you see this faux stone wall.

There’s room to park there. Then, after passing into the compound you’ll come upon a pleasant recreation area with a pool table as seen here.

While a game of billiards with your friends may be fun. May I suggest a dip in the pool? There are two. A large, deeper one…

…and a shallow one…

That’s a float up bar at the far end. Don’t want to be thirsty out there in the Aruban sunshine. The rooms are arranged around these pools giving you direct and immediate access to the water. A typical room features a nice bedroom like this…

…and a sitting area with micro-kitchenette like this…

The kitchenette area is off to the right, out of the frame. Then, Chef Gabby will be making you breakfast and snacks, served in the dining area. Around those pools you’ll find coolers dispensing lemonade and iced-tea at no extra charge, which is a nice bonus.

There’s a lending library here with books and games. Also available are various all terrain vehicles for exploring remote parts of the island, and there are a few worth finding. Club Arias provides an alternative to the big hotels. It is a place away from the bustle of the main tourist center. Here you can kick back in a casual fashion, do your own thing, and not have to worry about the crowds or the exorbitant prices that can sting your budget. Check it out.

Published in: on July 17, 2010 at 9:57 am  Leave a Comment  
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Tuscany Residence, Aruba

If you were looking for a new place to live in the Caribbean, you might want to get in at the beginning with Tuscany Residence, Aruba. Lately there have been a few high-end developments springing up between the cactus and the divi trees. Here’s a look at the builders rendition of what’s to come this time.

You’ll have your choice of 78 apartments and 75 houses. May be difficult to decide. They spent some money clearing the site, which was an eyesore for many years. Here’s the long view.

That photo is looking generally west. In the distance you can see the Marriott Hotel, which fronts the beach. So, you’ll be close to the water, probably a major selling point. Just off to the right of the frame is JJ Snack, a great place to get a cold beer on a hot day. Well, progress marches on in Aruba.

Bon dia.

Published in: on July 15, 2010 at 12:06 am  Leave a Comment  
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