Eagle Beach, Aruba (video)

Eagle Beach is one of the largest and best beaches in Aruba, if not the entire Caribbean. As the number of hotels and condos has increased in Aruba, people talk about the beaches getting crowded. Sometimes they are crowded but many times, as you’ll see in this video, there is more than enough space. Take a look:

As you can see, there was hardly anyone on the beach. This video was taken on a Friday, about the middle of the morning. All you need to enjoy Eagle Beach is suntan lotion, a towel, and the right attitude. May I recommend a good book?

Bon dia from Aruba.

Published in: on November 16, 2008 at 11:25 am  Leave a Comment  
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Chez Matilde, Aruba, (lunch)

Chez Matilde in Oranjestaad, Aruba, is a fantastic restaurant. Period. I’ve dined here many times for lunch and dinner. It has always been excellent in terms of food, service, and ambiance. It is located one block behind L.G. Smith Boulevard, the main thoroughfare that separates town from the waterfront. Here’s a video of the restaurant and our lunch:

Matilde runs a lunch special feature which offers any soup and sandwich or any soup and salad at a very reasonable price given the quality and atmosphere. You may also choose from the dinner menu. As for evening meals, this is a smart place to dine with that special someone. An extensive wine list is available to go with the creative dishes. The staff here is the equal of any major-city restaurant, without the pretentiousness that sometimes comes with that type of place. In other words, you can have a great meal with spot on service without feeling like Miss Manners is hovering over your shoulder.

I try to visit Chez Matilde at least once each for lunch and supper during my stays in Aruba. I recommend the same for anyone coming to the island.

Published in: on November 15, 2008 at 10:48 am  Leave a Comment  
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A Peek At Venezuela (from Aruba)

On a clear day, you can see Cerro Santa Ana in Venezuela from Aruba. I took this video from Savaneta Beach, which is only a few hundred yards from my house. Take a look.

There are people who wind and kite surf between Venezuela and Aruba. This is an impressive feat. Not something I would try, not without a waterproof passport. Still, it could be fun. Remember to enjoy your watersports and international relations responsibly.

Bon dia (again) from Aruba.

Published in: on November 14, 2008 at 12:31 pm  Leave a Comment  
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San Nicolaas, Old Days (video)

This video compilation of old photographs from San Nicolaas, Aruba, shows scenes from the 1930’s to 1970’s when Lago Oil was the biggest thing going on the island. Esso (Exxon) owned the refinery at the time and it was the largest in the world for many years. Stick with the video because regular visitors to Aruba will recognize some of the sights and areas.

It is amazing to see how much has changed over the years. The refinery isn’t what it once was, but it is still there, looming over San Nicolaas providing a diverse employment base and various other opportunities for the island.

I’ve been toying with the idea for a book that happens in San Nicolaas around the late 1950’s. The story would follow the character, Sam, from An Island Away. He was quite the wild young man, not so bad as rambunctious. One thing is for sure: There’s plenty of story material from Aruba at this time. We’ll see how it turns out.

The video was made by LilKing Productions, with which I have no affiliation, but I thank them for putting this up on YouTube for all of us to enjoy.

Bon dia!

Published in: on November 13, 2008 at 11:57 am  Leave a Comment  
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