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| Leisure has a new definition in Aruba! |
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f your vision of paradise consists of powder-white beaches and incredibly clear azure waters, Aruba is your paradise. This island of unusual landscapes, friendly residents, balmy breezes and tropical rhythms is an idyllic destination for anyone who loves the sun and surf. Its magnificent coast is one of the Caribbean's most beautiful stretches of beach.
Aruba is 16 miles off the coast of Venezuela, 19 miles long and 6 miles wide encompassing 70 square miles. The official language is Dutch but English and Spanish are also spoken. On the island's South coast, the topography and vegetation are unusual for a Caribbean island. On the south and west coasts are miles of pristine white beaches that rank among the most beautiful in the world, rimmed by calm blue seas with visibility in some areas to a depth of a hundred feet. The Northeast coast along the Atlantic shore, is rugged and wild. The interior is desert-like, with a variety of cacti and dramatic rock formations. Located on Aruba's picturesque southern coast, Oranjested is the historical Dutch capital city where the tall multicolored houses combine carved wooded doors and traditional Dutch tiles with airy open galleries and sloping, Aruban-style roofs.
When in Aruba, snorkeling is an important part of any itinerary. Mask, fins and snorkels are supplied and boats will usually anchor near a large German tanker that was sunk just offshore. Go beyond snorkeling and try "SNUBA". Air tanks float on rafts on the ocean and several 20 ft air hoses provide oxygen to the swimmer below the surface. The hoses permit underwater explorers as young as eight years old to safely descend to a depth of 20 feet with the aid of a SNUBA-instructor, allowing for unique views of colorful fish and intriguing coral formations
The constant 15-knot trade winds, along with the variety of flat-water locations and challenging wave conditions, have made Aruba one of the most popular spots on earth for windsurfers. Whether you're a beginner, an expert or anywhere in between, you can find a suitable location for your skill level. Novices can take advantage of the gentler winds, abundance of rental equipment and instructors along the island's southern shore. Advanced students and experts have a choice of any number of prime locations along the northern and southeastern coasts.
If you're a little uncertain about donning scuba diving and snorkeling gear, but have a yen to admire Aruba's glorious spectacles that reside under the sea, then an underwater cruise is for you! View Aruba's spectacular underwater world from a traditional glass bottom boat on the morning and afternoon trips to the German wreck, Antilla and Arashi coral reef. Relax or work on your tan from the upper deck as you enjoy the scenic view of the coastline during the ride and then hop down to admire the reefs.
Explore the Caribbean at 150 feet below surface on board the 46 passenger state-of-the-art Atlantis Submarine. Following a brisk catamaran ride from downtown Oranjestad to the dive site, you'll board Atlantis Submarine for an unforgettable journey into Aruba's mysterious underwater world.
And then there is Sailing! The view of the island itself is such a dazzling spectacle from the sea that many partake of sailing adventures at all times of day and night. Some prefer to choose water sport expeditions, while other prefer a dinner cruise, and still others opt to dance on the decks into the night with the excitement of a midnight dip into the warm sea!
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Worldroom: Oranjestad City Guide
Oranjestad Weather:
Destinations Archive | Worldroom Home
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