Activities
Activities
A Whirlwind Week of Wonderful by Susan Campbell If you only have one week to spend on Aruba, then follow my lead to get the absolute most out of it without spinning your wheels or missing out on anything fabulous. Allow me to tailor an itinerary that will show you what dushi is all about on One Happy Island. Fun-day Monday
My first recommendation is to visit The Butterfly Farm on your first day because the initial admission fee is good for the rest of your stay. It’s a glorious spot of tropical gardens full of colorful winged wonders. Wear bright colors so they might land on you! Go in the early morning when they are most active and that’s when you’re most likely to witness newborn butterflies and moths emerge from their cocoons. Magical. Now, get your beach bearings. Start with Palm Beach – along the highrise resort strip. Make sure you have your bathing suit, as you will want to take a few dips in the irresistible aqua waters. Walk along the beach to find both main piers (De Palm and Pelican), where all the snorkel and sailing excursions depart from. On the way, you’ll see that activity shacks abound with banana-boat rides, parasailing, sea kayaking, waterskiing, jet boating, deepsea fishing, snorkeling, diving, windsurfing, yoga, and more. And there are scads of beach bars, dining spots, snack stands, and shops along this sandy strip. Next, grab a public bus or taxi, or drive a short distance to Aruba’s lowrise resort
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strip: Eagle Beach. There, it’s not about doing as much as it is about seeing. This stellar stretch of pristine sand on rolling turquoise surf is consistently ranked among the best beaches in the world. It’s a spellbinding spot for a stroll and a swim. Terrific tours Tuesday
Now it’s time to explore the island a bit further. There are many choices of transportation for island tours: air-conditioned motor coach, ATVs, dune buggies, monster trucks, even Harley-Davidsons! And most stop at landmarks like the Alto Vista Chapel, the California Lighthouse, and the famous fallen land bridge en route to the rugged outback. But one of my favorite adventures is the ABC Jeep Safari that goes to the natural pool in Arikok National Park. It’s an exhilarating adventure – some call the “shake and bake” tour – and the ride is wild. It includes snorkel gear so you can explore the pool called conchi. Be prepared for steep stairs down, and exercise caution, as the rocks into it are extremely slippery. But the scenery is surreal.
Go wild Wednesday
Aruba has unique animal attractions like the Ostrich Farm. There you can follow the ungainly bird’s growth from giant egg to adult. You’ll also have the opportunity to feed them. Then, there is Philip’s Animal Garden: a sprawling nonprofit sanctuary for unwanted animals taken in by owner Philip Merryweather. You receive healthy treats to feed them, and the eclectic collection includes camels, an ocelot, peacocks, monkeys, and even a kangaroo! But watch out for the monkeys. They are master thieves and will grab your sunglasses, hat, camera, and even cell phone if you aren’t careful! Another nonprofit foundation is the Donkey Sanctuary Aruba. Its residents will also appreciate treats like apples and carrots. This is part of Save the Donkey Foundation run by Desiree Eldering. You can adopt a donkey there – but not take it home – and donations go to its care and feeding. You can also adopt one from their website. !
Top right and jeep photo courtesy of ABC Tours
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