"One Happy Island" — Shelby Fuhrman

The Island of Oranjestad Aruba is referred to as “One Happy Island” and after visiting this beautiful island multiple times I can assure you it lives up to this phrase.

There are so many different adventures and experiences to be explored on the island of Aruba. The first week our ship visited the island a few of my friends and I went to Flamingo Island. To visit this island, after arriving alongside the port my friends and I went to the Renaissance hotel and jumped in a water taxi. The ride is free but one must purchase a ticket for the island or rent a room to be able to access Flamingo Island. The water taxi is about a ten to fifteen minute ride out to the island and once you arrive there are water bungalows for rent, a tropical bar area with drinks and food, multiple stunning picture spots, and of course a flock of flamingos that love to pose for photos while you feed them. Below are some photos of this beautiful relaxing spot.

Our next adventure the following week was a deep sea fishing trip with Ola Fishing Charters. Thanks to Captain Mike for helping me organize this trip for my friends and I. We went out, midday, on a small boat for a half-day of fishing and caught three bonito fish and one small tuna. I was amazed at how easy it was to organize this trip and so thankful for such a fun time riding the waves, learning more about the island, listening to music, and catching fish. The one fish I caught took me seven minutes to reel in and at the time it felt much longer. At the end of our day we let the crew keep the fish and thanked them for such a fun day out on the water. Below are some photos of our fishing adventure! Click on the photo to see more!

After fishing we headed to grab a bite to eat at a place called The West Deck. We enjoyed dinner under a lightly lit tree overlooking the water. The seafood and its presentation was incredible. I highly recommend visiting not only for the food but the scenery, which is a perfect spot to catch the sunset. All in all it was a beautiful day spent in Aruba.

On the west side of the island you will find Palm beach, which is one of the many hot spots to visit during your time in Aruba. Over in this area there are plenty of beautiful beach resorts as well as beach huts selling things from water activities, Dutch snacks, to my favorite, acai bowls.

One of the Dutch café’s on the beach I enjoy visiting for a coffee or snack is called The Bread Basket. The décor alone is inviting, comforting, and has a sort of boho chic vibe that I love. The women that opened this shop are also friendly and inviting. If you are ever near by stop in for a café latte and a stunning view of the water.

Another one of my favorite spots to visit is Edwardo’s, it’s a popular hut close to the water that makes the most delicious acai bowls; whip cups, tuna bowls, protein balls, and so much more. The day we went I ordered the mermaid bowl and I was not disappointed. The ingredients of fresh fruit, granola, coconut, and other toppings make these bowls so delicous! I highly recommend visiting Edwardo’s for the experience and the tasty food selection!

These are just some of the many fun activities to enjoy in Aruba! If you have any questions or would like to know more do not hesitate to reach out to me! I would love to hear from you!

Love and Light,

Shelby