08 February 2019 - Friday - Oranjestad, Aruba - 10am to 11pm



Riviera docks in Oranjestad, the capital of Aruba, about 10:00am -- it is very warm.  This island is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the south Caribbean Sea.  The climate is arid giving tourists the assurance of consistent sunny weather for their vacation.

Phil and I are off the ship to check out the location of the bus station.  We are taking the bus to another part of the island where the Hilton Resort is located to meet Jackie and Sean for drinks later this afternoon.  They are on the island for the week from Boston. 

Then, we wander around the shopping area, which includes a mix of high-end designer shops and low-end souvenir stores.    However, there is a ZARA  -- and that is where Phil and I part ways.   

We are both back on board the ship in time for lunch -- and about 3:00 pm leave to catch a bus to the Hilton.


Phi at the Hilton Resort in Aruba

As we stand in line to get on the bus, it becomes evident that the bus driver is having a heated argument with a couple attempting to board and who appear to be regulars.   The driver is very angry but eventually they settle their differences and the people continue to their seats on the bus. 

We pay in US cash $2.50 -- and are allowed to go through the turn style -- yes there is a turn style at the front of the bus.   Getting off the bus is from the back door only.

A young couple we meet in line -- as we discuss waiting for another bus as the driver is having his "hissy fit"-- are very helpful letting us know where to get off.

We arrive with about a half hour to spare so wander around the area.  There are shops and restaurants galore within walking distance.  The Hilton complex has lovely grounds with a couple of pools, several bars and a large open-air lobby.   

Jackie, Sean, Pat and Phil at Bugaloe Beach Bar - Aruba


Sean and Jackie meet us in the lobby and suggest the Bugaloe Beach Bar and Grill -- close by and right on the water.  It is an energetic place and a beautiful setting.    At 5:00 pm -- the start of happy hour -- two of the waitresses, each with a microphone, belt out a few songs from the dance floor -- both have really good voices.

Singing Waitresses at Bugaloe Beach Bar - Aruba.

We have a nice visit with Jackie and Sean including a face time session with Tag, Jackie's Dad who is in Boston and jealous of all of us.

About 5:30 pm we head to the bus stop meeting a nice couple from another cruise ship in port.

Tonight we dine with Sharon and John in Red Ginger -- the Asian restaurant on board and our favorite.

This is a good day but way too hot for me.

Thanks for Reading.


Pat


Location: Aruba

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