Aruba Concierges, Island Gourmet Magazine by Sue Campbell

Esther Phillips Costa Linda Beach Resort

“At Your Service!”

by Susan Campbell No guest request is too great or too small for your concierge.

Aruba’s consummate concierges can point the way to the best adventures and activities the island offers. These experts are only too happy to share the insider secrets gleaned from their years of experience. They have a storehouse of tips and contacts to make your time on Aruba exceptional. Meet some of the tireless vacation specialists dedicated to ensuring the holiday of your dreams.

Ludwig Croes Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino

Berlinda Engelhardt Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino

Originally from Curaçao, Berlinda has worked with Renaissance Aruba for 15 years in various positions. Recognizing her outgoing per­sonality and knowledge of this island, management invited Berlinda to take their training course for navigators – the name now used for Renaissance concierges. “I love it,” she says.

“I’ve been working at the Renaissance since I was 18 and have been a concierge, or should I say navigator, for the past eight years.” Berlinda finds the title is fitting. “We really do navigate the entire island to supply the best experiences possible.” One of Berlinda’s favorite requests is to help organize surprise proposals. “It brings out the romantic in me,” she says. “I love getting creative and thinking up new ways for the guys to sweep their girlfriends right off their feet.” Berlinda also enjoys spending her spare 70

Esther was a charter representative for De Palm Tours for 18 years before moving to concierge duties two years ago for them at Costa Linda Resort. Born and raised in Aruba’s friendly atmosphere, Esther is a self-described “people person,” who says she found the job transition was easy. “My most satisfying experience is helping guests on a daily basis,” she says. “Hearing how they’ve enjoyed what I planned for them always brings me great happiness.” And how can guests better use her services? “Come sit and take the time for a conversation so I can find out what your actual needs are. Then I’ll be able to plan something special, uniquely for you.” On her time off, Esther loves to start the day by watching the sunrise at Baby Beach with her family. It’s an inspiring experience she recommends to visitors. “We’re always sending guests for sunset sails, but I also like to tell them about the beautiful dawns we have in San Nicolas, on the other side of the island,” she says. “It’s nicknamed ‘Sunrise City’ for good reason.”

time with her family, especially in beautiful Arikok National Park. “I always recommend visits to such beautiful natural areas, in addition to Aruba’s luxurious retreats,” she says. “It gives guests a heightened sense of our lovely island home.”

Top photo by Beyaz Gazetesi. Portrait by Luis Mejia

The call of Aruba was too strong for Ludwig when he left for Holland to study and work in banking administration. Missing his family and sunny island-lifestyle, he returned home and switched professions to tourism. Ludwig started in the Food & Beverage department at the Aruba Marriott and then took on front-desk duties before becoming a concierge two years ago. “I adore this job and meeting so many fascinating people from all around the world,” he says. “I love sharing stories about different cultures, traditions, food, and languages with guests.”

These visitors often include celebrities such as Lisa D’Amato, America’s Next Top Model AllStars winner. “I was so happy to make her stay here enjoyable,” says the smiling concierge. After hours, Ludwig explores little-known places on the island and likes to share his discoveries with vi­si­ ­tors. “My guests simply need to let me take the lead, to ensure they have an incredible time here,” he says. “And if you ask, I’ll even show you some of my own special spots, like Black Stone Beach.” E Photos by Luis Mejia

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Antoine Schoofs Bucuti & Tara Beach Resorts

“When the Beach Boys came here for a show, I was absolutely thrilled to be on call for them 24 /7,” says Antoine. “I’m a huge fan of their music.” Originally from Holland, Antoine moved to Aruba in 2006 and now works at Bucuti’s concierge desk. “It takes a different kind of attitude or mindset to be a successful concierge,” he says. “It’s one of those jobs where you always need to be prepared for anything and everything.” Antoine believes a good concierge should anticipate a guest’s needs before they even realize they have them. “Once you receive a request, the word ‘no’ should never be part of your vocabulary,” he says. “Even if it takes 20 phone calls.” Antoine’s approach brings him much satisfaction. “We have so many repeat guests here that many of them are like family to me now.” Antoine himself takes full advantage of Aruba’s attractions. He enjoys culinary pursuits and playing tennis, as well as snorkeling and diving at beautiful Mangel Halto – a beach he strongly recommends to guests.

Aleja Le Grand Holiday Inn Resort Aruba

Aleja believes that bringing up six children was the ideal preparation for the multi-tasking and people skills a concierge needs. “Having so many children also taught me that every individual is special in their own way,” she says.

“And that’s how I like to treat each and every one of my guests.” Aleja is another Aruban who believes there’s no place like home. She originally returned from study in Holland to cook for some of some of the island’s many fine-dining establishments. But for the past 12 years she’s worked as a concierge at the Holiday Inn. “It does my heart good to make people happy, it’s just the way I am,” she says. “This job allows me to do that every day. It doesn’t matter if it’s a small request or a very difficult one; it’s always my pleasure to do the utmost to grant it.” During her time off Aleja enjoys reading, writing, gardening, and spending time with her family – now all grown up.

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Aruba’s concierges are at your service

Whether it’s a small boutique hotel or a major chain resort, you’d be hard-pressed to find a concierge on the island who won’t go to great lengths to fulfill your requests. Just ask. K

Top photo by Alikemal Karasu. Middle photo by Luis Mejia. Bottom photo courtesy of Holiday Inn Resort Aruba