One of the most easily navigable and user-friendly sites about Aruba was found at www.aruba.com. Here you will find everything from travel and entry requirements to local attractions, nightlife, resorts and eateries around the island. With a branding that smiles “90,000 friends you haven’t met yet” you can’t help but feel the exciting welcome and hospitality radiating from these multilingual and diverse people, waiting for you to step on their soil.
The culture of Aruba is certainly something of note as well. A diverse country with four main languages and a rich history make Aruba an interesting destination. The Amerindians, a tribe of hunters-gatherers-fishers originally used the sea for survival in the Malmok and Palm Beach areas as its earliest inhabitants, around 2500 BC – 1000 AD. Later on the island was ruled by both the Spanish and the Dutch (which it remains today) at different points in time, and briefly extended a rule under England, as well. Over the years, the aloe plant has grown ferociously on Aruba, which has extended its reach on the world by becoming the largest aloe vera harvester and manufacturer.
Getting married in Aruba has some requirements that could be a tad tricky unless you know about them ahead of time and are a stickler for details and preparation. According to Aruba’s main site, there are different requirements depending on whether you would like a civil or religious marriage. Across the board you must provide proof of identity, age, nationality, proper religious accreditation (such as a blessing from your home priest if you are Catholic or a certificate of Judaism from your local Rabbi) and for civil ceremonies you must have witnesses as well as a certificate of no impediment (AKA a “single status report” or “negative statement of marriage”). The best way to make sure you have all proper documents is by working with one of our Personal Honeymoon Consultants. They will keep you on track by pairing you up with a wedding consultant in Aruba or working with you directly to ensure all documents are to the Civil Town House at the appropriate time.
So, once you’re in Aruba....what on earth to do? Easy! First, you have to see the beaches. My advice? Rent a car or motorcycle through your travel agent or, if you’re deciding to do it last minute, walk right up to the front desk at your resort or hotel. The best way to see the island is to navigate it yourself and because of its size it’s nearly impossible to get lost. The very first stop to make is at the notorious Palm Beach, but that’s not the only beach worthy of a look. Baby and Arashi beaches are great for snorkeling. If watersports are more your thing than be sure to take a look at Eagle and Hadicurari beaches for surfing, boating and tubing. If relaxation’s the name of your game then Druif and Mangel Hatlo beaches are exactly what you need. All of these sport stunning clear waters, warm sun-kissed sand, and plenty of privacy for those needing to feel removed from the everyday world.
There are also multiple attractions that exude Aruba’s beauty, history and culture. The Bon Bini (which translates to “welcome”) festival takes place every Tuesday at 6:30pm rain or shine. This Oranjestad celebration features dancers, drummers and local artists and food. If you happen to hit Aruba at the right time you’ll see the Carnival Celebration, a once-a-year event that lasts for an entire month! (Check with your Personal Honeymoon Consultant to see when next year’s Carnival will take place.) If you’re looking for something a little mellower, Aruba’s Indian caves, the Casibari and Ayo rock formations and museums are ways to soak in the rich traditions of the island. In the Arikok National Park, couples will explore exquisite lava and quartz formations, tokens of the incredible power of nature on the island. Be sure to check out the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins and the Aruba Aloe Factory to see snippets of history and industrialism.
Let’s not forget about the nightlife. Aruba sports diverse dining and beachside activity after the sun sets. You can take a mini sunset cruise that leaves off Palm Beach and there are plenty of bars from which to choose. Try one, or try them all! One of the more famous eateries is Charlie’s Bar. Starting in the 40’s when mariner divers made a stop at Aruba they’d trek to Charlie’s Bar and leave a token behind. Today, the bar is overflowing with kitsch! If you’re feeling lucky, try one of the casinos in the area and see if you can win big!
There’s obviously more to see than what I’ve described here; Aruba is a treasure and deserves time and attention to truly explore every unique facet of the island. I’m absolutely positive my friends Georgie and Donna are having the time of their lives as they celebrate their new titles of husband and wife. If you’d like to make 90,000 new friends and see what Aruba can offer you, contact KHM Honeymoons to speak with our Personal Honeymoon Consultants today!
No comments:
Post a Comment