JANUARY 19, 2008 ARUBA
Welcome to Oranjestad, Aruba
Dutch influence still lingers on this balmy Caribbean island, part of the Netherlands Antilles until its independence in 1986. Aruba is a contrast; the island’s arid interior is dotted with cactus and the windswept divi-divi trees, while secluded coves and sandy beaches form its coast. Aruba’s long and colorful heritage is reflected in its dialect. Called Papiamento, it is a tongue that combines elements of Spanish, French, Portuguese, Dutch, African and English.
Ornajestad (English: “Orangetown”) with a population of 26,355 (2000), is the capital of the most important city of Aruba located on the southern coast near the western end of the island.
The town was built around Fort Soutman shortly after it was built in 1796 and Oranjestad has be the capital ever since. The for is still one of the town’s attractions, others being the tax-free harbor and the Willem III Tower, located near the fort. The city is named after the first King Willem van Oranje-Nassau, the first heir to the Dutch House of Orange.
We played the Terra del Sol golf course along the northern coast and it was pretty tough. There was a lot of cactus and sand and the watered fairways and greens. Better to be in the fairway.
We took this picture of the California light house on the northern end of the island in the background. Alongside Judy is one or our table mates Linda Russell from England. It was a pleasure playing with her. Next course is in Costa Rica. We are not sure if we are making the trek being 1-1/2 hours each way.
