Last time I told you of our post-vacation return to reality without telling you about our wonderful time in Aruba.
For more than twenty years we have been meeting with the same group of American friends in Aruba. They are without a doubt the greatest people from all walks of life. The only problem is that our troupe is shrinking. Age and poor health have diminished our ranks over the years but there is still a compatible group of twelve who gather on the beach each day celebrating the joys of the island. In the evening we all break bread as a group at local restaurants. No chain restaurants are allowed!
Aruba is not a place to visit if you want to lose weight. The island has some of the world’s best drinking water via their desalinization plant. Because of that water, they also produce some of the best bread products you could imagine. In Aruba, a diet of bread and water is not a way to lose pounds especially when you link the bread to your plate of grouper, escargot or spicy shrimp. You just have to use the bread to sop up those beautiful sauces. Shrimp Pina Colada is to die for! More bread, please!
I’ve always enjoyed our time in Aruba. Hot it may be but trade winds make it bearable. The people are friendly and with a Dutch-based heritage, it is spotless.
During the day, books are read; swimming (standing) in the Caribbean, doing lengths in the pool and picking restaurants to become the only pressures of the day. It’s exhausting.
In the evenings, after dinner, you can roam the markets, visit a casino or just people watch. Night wandering is safe and interesting.
Sadly with our dollar differences here in Canada, it is getting more expensive. Between our dollar and inflation, we avoid converting what we pay for our meals. Although everything can be paid for in florins the going currency is American due to the strong influence of the travel industry. Ouch!
Years ago, I opened a U.S. money account to avoid post-vacation surprises. Over the year I regularly contribute to that travel account. Unfortunately, my trusty American charge card failed me. I ended up paying with a Canadian card which will cost a fortune when converted to U.S. dollars. Eventually, after a few calls and several days, the problem was resolved but I am still dreading my next credit card bill.
I might have to get another part-time job to pay off our debts due to that faulty charge card. (Hey editor, may I have a raise?)
So until 2020, safe travels to my vacation friends and please stay healthy. Meanwhile, I will try to find a way to pay off my credit card before next year’s visit.
Missing our Aruba buddies, Kent Walton can be reached at [email protected].
