Aruba: Beaches, Stroopwafels & Divi-Divi Trees

Aruba

From the moment I arrived in Aruba, I noticed the steady Caribbean breeze and clear blue sky. The air had a subtle mix of salt and warmth, and I quickly understood why the island is known as “One Happy Island.” After checking into my beachfront hotel in Palm Beach, I headed straight to the shore. The sand was soft and white, and the water was a calm turquoise. Later that morning, I joined a snorkeling tour at Boca Catalina. I saw colorful fish swimming nearby and even spotted a sea turtle moving slowly through the water. For lunch, I tried bitterballen and stroopwafels—Dutch snacks that were surprisingly satisfying.

The next day, I rented a jeep and drove through Arikok National Park. The landscape shifted to dry hills and cacti, which reminded me a bit of the American Southwest. I hiked to the Natural Pool, a small swimming spot surrounded by volcanic rock. The waves crashed just beyond the edge, making it feel remote and peaceful.Toward evening, I visited Eagle Beach. The divi-divi trees there are shaped by the wind and give the beach a distinct look. I sat on the sand and watched the sunset—gold and pink tones filled the sky. Families and couples were scattered around, enjoying the quiet.

Dinner that night was grilled mahi-mahi with mango salsa and a cold Balashi beer at a small local restaurant. The waiter talked with me about life on the island. He mentioned that Dutch and Papiamento are Aruba’s official languages. (Papiamento is a creole language with roots in Dutch, Spanish, Portuguese, and African languages.) He also explained that Aruba has its own parliament and prime minister but remains part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, which oversees defense and foreign affairs. Dutch influence is visible in the architecture, food, and legal systems.

Later, I walked back to the beach under a clear, star-filled sky. The sound of the waves was steady and calming. I felt relaxed and content. Aruba left a strong impression—not just as a place to visit, but as a place that stays with you.