Unforgettable Trip to Aruba

 Escape to Paradise - My Unforgettable Trip to Aruba

Night Photo of Aruba

When you think of paradise, crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and warm island breezes probably come to mind. For me, that paradise became reality in Aruba. Located just off the coast of Venezuela, this tiny Caribbean island is bursting with charm, adventure, and beauty at every turn.

Why Aruba?

Known as “One Happy Island,” Aruba lives up to its nickname. The locals are warm and welcoming, the weather is sunny almost every day of the year, and the island feels safe and easy to explore. Plus, it’s outside the hurricane belt, which makes it a reliable year-round destination.

Woke up early morning, my cruise ship was almost at the dock, and after a good breakfast on the ship which was a 3 eggs omelet and a coffee was ready to explore the island on my own.  

As I exited the ship, there was a tour bus selling tours for $25 which was a good deal and took us all over the island.

Casibari Rock Formations

This was our first stop on my tour. The Casibari Rock Formations are a collection of tonalite boulders located in the center of Aruba, near the village of Paradera. These mysterious formations are a popular tourist destination because they offer a unique hiking experience and panoramic views of the island.

The rocks have been shaped by wind and erosion over time, and some people believe they resemble different animals. There are walking trails and steps carved into the rocks, making it possible for visitors to climb to the top for a 360-degree view. The site is also notable for its historical significance, as the native Arawak people are believed to have used the area for religious rites and left behind petroglyphs (rock drawings).

Next stop was Cheng Xing super Market, its a Asian Grocery store. 

Next The Aruba Aloe Factory Museum and Store which is a popular tourist destination in Aruba. It is an aloe factory that offers free educational tours and has a gift shop in a picturesque setting. There is a Aloe farm outside the store where they gave a short demonstration of extracting Aloe from the Plant.

And the next stop is the California Lighthouse. It was built between 1914 and 1916 and is named after the steamship California, which was wrecked nearby in 1891. The lighthouse is located on the northwestern tip of Aruba and offers panoramic views of the island's coastline. It is a popular tourist destination.

California Lighthouse Aruba

And the last stop was Eagles Beach. Aruba is home to many beautiful beaches. Eagle Beach is ranked as one of the best beaches in the world, it features a long stretch of white sand and clear turquoise water. It's also known for the iconic fofoti trees. I choose to go back to the Cruise ship as it was a hot day. In the evening I did stroll the busy markets to buy a few souvenirs, there are several shops and Bars within walking distance of the cruise port.

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Bonaire Tour from Cruise Port

Bonaire is a beautiful Caribbean island known for its pristine natural environment, particularly its coral reefs and diving opportunities. It's located in the Leeward Antilles, off the coast of Venezuela. It's part of the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao).

The official language is Dutch, but Papiamento is widely spoken.

Weather  Towards the end of January was hot and Humid

Bonaire is a special municipality of the Netherlands.

Image on the left shows the coast of Bonaire, characterized by a sharp contrast between the deep blue of the open ocean and the vibrant turquoise of the shallow waters closer to the shore.

After a good breakfast on my cruise ship, exited the ship and headed towards the cruise port, now I did not have a excursion planned ahead of time so basically I approached the Taxi counter, was told if there are four people they would charge USD 25 each for an island tour that lasted about three and a half hours. Within minutes there were 3 others wanting to go, was kind of surprised as most folks have booked shore excursions by the cruise ship company, anyways off we went. 

The cab driver was also our tour guide and gave a commentary on the sites we passed by, our first stop was the surf and snorkel beach, we walked down the steps to the beach. Picture of the iguana by the steps.

We continued on and our next stop was the lake. Salinas are natural saltwater lakes. Goto Lake is the largest natural saltwater lake on Bonaire where flamingos have their breeding grounds.

And we drove along the beautiful Bonaire island and came to Seru Largu which has a Cross on a hill and is a lookout point with Great island views.

It was a hot day and our last stop was The Cadushy Distillery where they make liquor out of the cactus. We drove around various neighbourhoods and were back at the Port in late afternoon.

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Crossing the Panama Canal

Crossed the Panama Canal from Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean. This was on a cruise ship.

Crossing the Panama Canal from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean, or vice versa, is a remarkable maritime journey that showcases one of the world's most impressive engineering feats. 

The ship we were on is a bigger ship and used the new locks.  The new locks in the Panama Canal are called the Gatun East and Miraflores West locks. They were added between 2007 and 2016 as part of the canal's expansion. The new locks are larger than the original locks, allowing larger ships to travel through the canal. The ship enters the lock chamber, and water is either released or added to adjust the water level and help the ship ascend or descend.

Tugboats are used to help ships maneuver through the Panama Canal

The old canal utilized locomotives on either side of the ship to pull the ship into the lock. The new canal uses tug boats. From the Pacific side we go through three locks. Then we cross Miraflores Lake, Gatun Lake then 3 locks to go down to Atlantic sea level.

Gatun Lake Crossing:

Once the ship passes through the locks, it enters Gatun Lake, an artificial lake created as part of the canal system. This is the highest point of the canal and offers beautiful views of the surrounding rainforest.

Gatun Locks:

On the Atlantic side, the ship goes through the Gatun Locks, which consist of three chambers. The ship is lowered back to sea level, allowing it to continue its journey toward the Atlantic Ocean.

Atlantic Ocean Exit:

Once the ship passes through the Gatun Locks, it enters the Caribbean Sea, marking the completion of the Panama Canal transit. From here, ships continue their voyage to their final destination.

Duration and Experience:

The time it takes to complete a Panama Canal transit varies depending on factors such as the size of the ship, traffic, and canal conditions. Generally, the transit can take around 6 hours. Passengers on cruise ships or other vessels often have the opportunity to observe the process and enjoy the scenic views along the way.

Crossing the Panama Canal is not only a marvel of engineering but also a chance to witness the historic importance of this waterway and its role in global trade and transportation. 

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Day Visit to Cartagena Colombia

Cartagena, Colombia is a vibrant city steeped in history and culture, this was a cruise ship day stop for me,  Here are some of the top things to do on a  visit to Cartagena

Explore the Old Town. Cartagena's historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is filled with charming cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, and beautiful plazas.  Be sure to wander around the Plaza de Bolívar, the city's main square, and admire the architecture of the Palace of the Inquisition and the Cartagena Cathedral. 

Cartagena old town

Walk the City Walls. Cartagena's fortifications are some of the most impressive in South America. You can walk along the top of the walls for stunning views of the city and the Caribbean Sea.

Visit San Felipe de Barajas Castle. This massive fortress is one of the largest Spanish forts ever built in the Americas. It's a great place to learn about Cartagena's colonial history and explore the tunnels and ramparts. 

Go shopping at Las Bóvedas. This craft market is located in a series of arches that were once used to defend the city. You can find a variety of souvenirs here, including Colombian handicrafts, jewelry, and clothing. 

Las Bóvedas

Sample Colombian cuisine. Cartagena has a great food scene, with everything from fresh seafood to traditional Colombian dishes like bandeja paisa (a hearty platter of rice, beans, and plantains). 

These are just a few of the many things to do in Cartagena on a cruise ship visit. With its rich history, beautiful beaches, and delicious food, Cartagena is sure to be a port of call that you won't forget.

Here are some additional tips for your cruise ship visit to Cartagena

Be sure to bargain when shopping at the markets.

The local currency is the Colombian peso (COP), Bought a T shirt and the vendor took US$

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Puerto Plata Dominican Republic

Puerto Plata is a Port city in the Dominican Republic, located on the Atlantic Ocean at the base of Isabel de Torres Peak. Puerto Plata translates to "Silver Port" in Spanish.

Puerto Plata Dominican Republic was a day stopover on Caribbean cruise, had booked a shore excursion to see the city and The Christ the Redeemer statue which is a famous landmark located at the summit of Mount Isabel de Torres. After a 10 minute walk to exit the Taino Bay Cruise Port, The tour bus was waiting for the group of folks that booked the tour. It takes about about half an hour to get from the Port to Mount Isabel de Torres. 

One can see the beautiful beaches and the city of Puerto Plata Dominican Republic from the Mount, on the way down from Mount Isabel de Torres the group decided to walk half way down as suggested by the tour guide, not an easy hike down though very scenic and beautiful through lush green gardens. 

The tour continued and the tour bus drove towards Fort San Felipe, a historic fortress built in the 16th century. We drove through The Malecon street which is about a 3 kilometer Picturesque drive on the oceanfront. 

Next stop on the tour is Parque Independencia which is a gazebo structure in city center across from Cathedral of St. Philip the Apostle. We did go inside the Cathedral and spent a good 20 minutes there.

Independence Square Puerto Plata

This is the main square of Puerto Plata where you can walk to the cathedral. the two statues are of national heroes Juan Pablo Duarte and General Gregorio Luperon. From this square, we walked to the surrounding attractions Umbrella Street,  and Victorian pink alley Paseo de Dona Blanca

Pink Alley Puerto Plata

We stopped at souvenir shops in downtown, they all charge tourist prices. The tour bus dropped us off at the Taino Bay Cruise port entrance, Taino Bay has music blasting with bars and shops selling T shirts, coffee, chocolates ect, there is also a pool and a lazy river, there is also free WiFi 

It was a hot afternoon in December and I took a free Tuk-Tuk ride from Taino Bay to the Ship, and tipped the driver 1 USD.

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Old Town Panama Visit

Exploring the old town of Panama City, also known as Casco Viejo, is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the history and culture of the area. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is filled with charming colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and a rich history that dates back to the 16th century. Visited Panama in February, spent a day in old town Panama and the next day crossing the Panama canal

Things to do and see in Old town Panama

1. Plaza de la Independencia:

This historic square is surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings and is a great place to learn about the area's history. You'll find the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Municipal Palace here.

2. Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral:

Take a moment to step inside the Metropolitan Cathedral, a stunning example of colonial architecture. The cathedral has an impressive altar and beautiful stained glass windows.

3. Walk along Avenida Central:

Avenida Central is a lively street with many stores, cafes, and restaurants. It's located in Casco Viejo, between Plaza Santa Ana and Plaza Cinco de Mayo. The colorful buildings and vibrant atmosphere make this a delightful walk.

4. Stop at Plaza Bolivar:

Plaza Bolivar is a charming square named after Simon Bolivar, a prominent figure in Latin American history. The square is surrounded by historic buildings and is a great spot to relax and people-watch.

5. Explore the San Felipe Neri Church:

Continue your walk to the San Felipe Neri Church. This church played a significant role in Panama's history and has a distinctive yellow façade.

6. Visit Plaza de Francia:

Plaza de Francia offers panoramic views of Panama City's skyline and the ocean. It's a tribute to the French engineers who attempted to build the Panama Canal in the 19th century

8. Wander through Plaza de la Catedral:

This picturesque square is surrounded by historic buildings and is a popular spot for both tourists and locals. The Plaza de la Catedral is a great place to take a break and soak in the atmosphere.

9. End at Bóvedas and the Sea Wall:

Finish your walking tour at Bóvedas, a series of archways that were once used as dungeons but now house souvenir shops. Nearby, you'll find the sea wall, a perfect place to take in views of the ocean and the modern skyline.

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Santiago Chile Travel

Visited Santiago in January 2020 

I left after 2 days

Airport to city takes about 30 minutes, have your hotel arrange for transportation to avoid any taxi scams.

Civil protests were taking place Chile in response to a raise in the Santiago Metro's subway fare, increased cost of living, and inequality in the country.

In Santiago the city streets one could see graffiti every where also burnt buildings and shops.

Protest were still going on, there were protestors trying to break into shops for looting and armored police trucks were spray tear gas to disperse the crowds. 

The evening I spent in Pio Nono which is alive with bars and restaurants and a great place to enjoy the city night life.

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Puerto Williams Chile Travel

Puerto Williams is a small town located on Navarino Island in southern Chile. It is often referred to as the southernmost town in the world, and it serves as the capital of the Chilean Antarctic Province. Due to its remote location and stunning natural surroundings, Puerto Williams has become an increasingly popular destination for adventure travelers, stopped here on my expedition cruise to Antarctica. 

The immigration officers from Chile came onboard the ship to stamp entry into Chile as we had sailed from Ushuaia Argentina.

Things to do

Museo Martin Gusinde: This museum is dedicated to the indigenous peoples of Tierra del Fuego. It showcases artifacts, photographs, and information about the native cultures that have inhabited the region for centuries.

Naval and Maritime Museum: Given Puerto Williams' naval presence, this museum provides insight into the area's maritime history and its connection to the Chilean Navy.

Wildlife Watching: The area is rich in wildlife, including various bird species, seals, and sometimes even whales. Guided wildlife tours can be arranged to explore the local fauna.

Kayaking and Canoeing: The region's pristine waters offer opportunities for kayaking and canoeing. You can paddle along the coastlines and enjoy the stunning scenery.

Bow of the Yelcho (replica) Walking distance from the port of entry.

 

Above Photo: Bow of the Yelcho (replica), the ship is famous for rescuing the crew of Ernest Shackleton's Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition from Elephant Island in 1916. Yelcho was a steam-powered cutter that was originally used as a tugboat before entering Chilean Navy service. 

A little History about Yelcho 

The Yelcho was commanded by Captain Luis Pardo Villalón. The Yelcho sailed from Punta Arenas, Chile, on August 25, 1916. It arrived at Elephant Island on August 30, 1916. The crew of the Yelcho was able to rescue all 22 men who had been stranded on the island for 10 months.

The rescue of the Shackleton's crew was a major international news story. It was a testament to the courage and determination of both Shackleton and Captain Pardo. The Yelcho is considered a hero ship and is remembered as one of the most important ships in Antarctic history.

Cape Horn: Puerto Williams is a departure point for tours to Cape Horn, the southernmost point of South America. This iconic landmark is known for its turbulent waters and rich maritime history. Due to rough sea conditions the ship I was on was unable to dock at Cape Horn.

An impact crater that lies at the Moon's south pole is named after Shackleton.

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