Travels in Aruba – part one

Spence and I have spent the most glorious vacation in Aruba for the last nine days.  It has been 30 years since I was last here and his first time.  Ever the world traveler, it was the only time since I met Spence that I’d been someplace first.

Arising at 2:45 a.m., we reached the airport by 4:30, dropped the car in the long-term lot and shuttled to the airport.  Checking our large bags, we silently prayed they’d make it safely after changing planes in Atlanta (they did!)

We arrived, cleared the airport, picked up our rental car and headed for the Bucuti and Tara Beach Resorts.  Located in the low-rise hotel section, right on the ocean is a 14 acre paradise.  We were checked in by Sylvia, given cold, lavender scented towels to refresh with and offered pink champagne while she gave us an orientation. What a way to start.  After 2 glasses each and properly refreshed, Nicole brought us to our lovely room and gave us the tour of the features.  We found that because we were celebrating both Spence’s birthday and our anniversary that the resort had gifted us with a bottle of Chardonnay, on ice, a beautiful round of Gouda, Carrs Garlic Herb Water Crackers and a bar of chocolate from Holland.  Nicole also showed us a bottle of pink champagne chilling in the minibar that was a gift from the hotel as well as 2 engraved champagne flutes and 2 aluminum water bottles as gifts to use while here and take upon our departure.

We chose a standard room which was exquisite – perfect for us. We were beginning to understand why this resort is rated #1 on Trip Advisor.