Aruba

We arrive in Oranjestad at 7 a.m.  In Dutch, Oranjestad means “Orange Town”.  It is the capital and the largest city in Aruba. 

Today, I am participating in the “Aruba Town & Countryside” tour.  Our first stop is Casibari Rock Formations.  Here a cluster of gigantic rocks are right in the middle of the desert.   Climbing the 50+/- stone steps is fun and a little adventurous.  The steps are uneven and there is a short stretch where you need to watch your head.  At the top is a 360 degree view of the surrounding area.  A different set of stairs takes us back down to the Garden area. 

 Stairs to Overlook

Coming to the Top 

 View from Top

Stairs Going Down

There are a few paths winding through the garden.  Established trails, steps, and railings provide a sense of security but caution is still advised.  Next to the Natural Bridge, the Casibari Rock Formations is the second most popular tourist attraction in Aruba.

 Garden Path

A Rock Formation

 

Our tour continues to the natural bridge on the northeast shore.  Unfortunately, Aruba’s largest natural bridge collapsed in 2005 but nearby “Baby” Bridge is still a tourist attraction. Small piles of stones (like cairn markers) dot the landscape.  However, these are not trail markers but are "wishing stones".  We are told we can make our own but not to disturb those already done.   The waves crash relentlessly against the rocky and rugged coastline. 

 “Baby” Natural Bridge

“Wishing Stones"

 Aruba’s Rugged Coastline

Back on the main road, we go through the town of Noord and onto our next stop - Alto Vista Chapel (aka Pilgrim’s Church).  This small and quaint Catholic chapel is open to the public.  The present Chapel was completed in 1952 and stands in the same location as the original church which was constructed in 1750.

Alto Vista Chapel

Alto Vista Chapel – Interior

Our last stop is the California Lighthouse. The lighthouse is 100 years old and is undergoing some restoration work.  When it is completed, visitors will be able to go inside the tower.  But for now, we have access only to the outside of it.  The tower is 100' high and the former lighthouse keeper quarters have been made into a high-end Italian restaurant with a covered open terrace overlooking the sea. 

 California Light & Restaurant

California Lighthouse

On our way back to the ship, we pass by the high-rise resorts.  The white sandy beaches are dotted with thatched roof umbrellas.

 Beach Umbrella

 Resorts Line the Beaches

 

A little before 5 p.m.,I photograph our departure from Deck 9 at the bow of the ship. 

Leaving Oranjestad, Aruba

For more information on Aruba, click on the following link:

Aruba Travel Guide