Audio Technica AT2020 (video review)

Audio Technica’s AT2020 microphone is doing a great job for me. I use this microphone in both the XLR version and the USB version to record the voiceovers on the many videos you see here on the blog. Check out my video review.

Here in Aruba, I did not want to construct an entire video blog studio, which is why I bought the USB version. It is literally plug and play, making it easy to operate. In that video, I did no post-production clean up of the audio. With a little tweaking, you’ll get very good results from the AT2020. I will be adding a few sound dampening panels to the room and a mic-trap to improve the general results. However, given that much of the work I produce is viewed/heard over the internet, it doesn’t make a lot of sense to spend tons of money to get perfect sound and video because everyone’s playback equipment is different. Someone watching one of my blog videos on a laptop in an airport will never have the opportunity to hear that crystal clear sound. Clarity is essential in any setting, and the AT2020 does it well. Of course, speaking clearly is the best place to start.

Bavaria Restaurant, Aruba

Aruba features a cultural mishmash that provides ample opportunity to sample food from around the world. For this post, I checked out a little German restaurant located near the Palm Beach high-rise area. It’s called Bavaria and the zany decor keeps with that theme as does the food, which you’ll see in this short video:

Tasty comfort food there, eh? And how about those giant beer glasses? People use them to great effect, cooling down after a day in the sun. If you’re looking for something completely different from the usual fare in Aruba, stop in to Bavaria. You’ll enjoy everything from the pretzels to the potato soup to the bratwurst. The prices are very reasonable for the area, too, so you’ll stay on budget. Special thanks to Craig for pointing this place out to me. Bon dia!

Buffam’s Tropical Haven, Aruba, video

My shack in Aruba needed some major interior work, which meant I was going to be out doors for a few days. This wasn’t the first time, but luckily, I have a great place to tuck in, and that is Buffam’s Tropical Haven. This is a bed and breakfast type of establishment with just a few suites available. Here’s a video that shows you Buffam’s rooms and common areas, as well as how to get there from the main highway.

As you saw in that video, Buffam’s is a cozy spot. You have a swimming pool, the barbecue, and those patios almost all to yourself. And check out their prices! You’ll be surprised at how reasonable it is to stay there, which means you can stay longer or have more cash to enjoy during your visit to the island. I’m back in my own digs but still stop by Buffam’s for coffee and a chat because, well, it’s a comfortable spot with great hosts.

JoAnn Snack, Aruba, video

JoAnn Snack is a favorite stop on my lunch tour. I’ve been popping in here for snacks for more than 10 years. It’s only a few minutes drive from Aruba’s airport and full of friendly faces. Let’s head over there in this video:

The pork chop with salsa criollo is great. There are other things on the menu, all at reasonable prices. Given the easy location, you can find this place on your way roaming about the island or going back and forth to Baby Beach or just because you want to give it a try. Spanish skills are helpful, but the menu is in English, too, so don’t worry about it. They’re also happy to serve take out meals as well, in case you just want to tote the food back to your place. Bon dia.