Urataka Center, Aruba, video

Urataka Center is an old-time rum shop located in the middle of the island of Aruba. This is a quaint little place to stop in for refreshment, including pizza and cold beverages. It is located on the road leading into the Arikok National Park. Here’s a video showing how to get there and the inside of the place.

Reminds me of some places I used to go when I was a little tyke. I’ll pass by again soon and get some photos of the food and such, updating this post when I have a chance. In the mean time, enjoy your visit to Aruba. More video on the way.

Published in: on February 9, 2012 at 5:22 pm  Leave a Comment  
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Savaneta Beach, Aruba

The little beach in Savaneta, Aruba, may be tiny compared to Palm and Eagle Beaches, but you can have it mostly to yourself. During the week, especially from about 9 in the morning until 3 in the afternoon, you won’t find but a few people here. At least I never do. Once in a while you’ll see a guy bait fishing with a hand net or a diver going in from shore. Otherwise, it’s you and the breeze. So here’s a video:

Imagine yourself there. Bring a cooler, some sunscreen, and kick back for the real desert island experience. Bon dia from the island.

Published in: on February 7, 2012 at 10:11 am  Leave a Comment  
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Visit Charlie’s Bar, Aruba

It’s nearly twenty years since I first set foot in Charlie’s Bar. It’s located in San Nicolaas, Aruba, a refinery town full of character at the edge of the Caribbean. It was founded in 1941 by Charlie Brouns, revamped by his son Charlie, Jr., and now operated by Charlie III. Join me inside this venerable institution for a look around.

Lots of stuff there to occupy your viewing pleasure while having a drink or a snack or both. The specialty is shrimp, served a couple of different ways. My favorite is steamed with garlic. They come with the heads on for those of you who like the juice. This isn’t a fancy place, drinks are shots and beer and the basics, nothing fuzzy or foamy. Given that Charlie’s began as a sailor bar, that’s to be expected. Enjoy yourself in Aruba and don’t forget the sunscreen. One other thing, try the Honeymoon Sauce, which is spicy hot and good on most anything.

Bon dia.

Published in: on February 5, 2012 at 2:05 pm  Leave a Comment  
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Cunard’s Queen Victoria

Cunard’s Queen Victoria made a stop in Aruba recently. She’s more of a traditional ship as far as her lines go. Less flash, probably more class. Take a look.

Cunard's Queen Victoria in Aruba.

I like the hull painted a darker color like that, along with the red for the below the waterline portion, gives a sense of gravitas to a ship. Either way, I’m sure it’s a magnificent floating palace for you to enjoy a vacation. Don’t forget to check where the lifeboats are!

Published in: on February 4, 2012 at 2:51 pm  Leave a Comment  
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