Monday, January 21, 2008

One Happy Island

Jan 19th, Oranjestad, Aruba. We arrived in Aruba without much fanfare, early in the morning of 1/19. Aruba was part of the Netherlands Antilles until it’s independence in 1986. It is an Island of contrasts; the Islands interior is dotted with cactus and wind swept divi-divi trees, while secluded coves and sandy beaches form its blue water coasts. The still Dutch-like Island has a population of about 100,000 people and lies about 35 miles north of Venezuela, Larry,s old homesake. Aruba is one of the three “ABC” islands of the Dutch West Indies and you can see a great deal of the local architecture reflecting this Dutch influence.
Upon arrival, we raced for the internet cafĂ©, sent our message on the blog site then off to the shops for souvenirs and seeing the town of Oranjestad. Wonderful place and the locals are proud of their motto written on the local license plate, “ONE HAPPY ISLAND”. We returned to the ship, had lunch then off on a local bus to take us to Eagle beach forswimming and sunbathing. The sand at the beach looked and felt like sugar.

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Hi - so two comments in one day! I'm heading to Boston, Jim to DC today, the 21st and we're none to happy with the weather situation. I mean frigid cold and you two are lapping up the sun! Wonder what your traffic jam will be like going through the Panama Canal??? Love you both... d

Gail said...


Dear Lor and Ruthanne,
It sounds as if you're having a great time. I have tried to send a comment a few times already with no luck. I hope this time I will be able to get through. Its great fun reading your posts and keeping up with your trip in general. Have a great time! Love, Gail

Gail said...

Hi you world travelers, Sorry about the pictures not working on the ocean, but its great to get your messages and so informative. Just keep on having a terrific time.

Love,

Gail

Jenn said...

Looked and felt like sugar? But did it TASTE like sugar. heehee Mom, did you actually put your head under water? I bet it was just beautiful. Can't wait to see the pictures and hear more stories!
xoxo