REAS Group 2009 Seminar Cruise January 19 - 30, 2009 Jewel of the Seas

Oranjestad, Aruba

Day 4: Thursday, January 22, 7 am - 4 pm (docked)
Pretty buildings, gorgeous beaches, and the famous rock bridge. Settled some 2,000 years ago by a group of Arawak Indians called the Caiquetios, the island was claimed for Spain in 1499 by Alonso de Ojeda. In 1636 the Dutch decided to take over the island. Except for a brief occupation by the British during the Napoleonic wars (1805 - 1815), the island has remained under Dutch control and is currently a semi-autonomous member of the Kingdom of the Netherlands

Fifteen miles off the north east cost of South America, this 120 square mile island of about 120,000 people offers  an abundant array of above and under water activities. SCUBA, snorkeling, submarine & semi-submersible rides, helmet diving, and Snuba are all available. As is sailing, kayaking, and a hydrofoil ride. On land you can ride an ATV, a Harley, in a jeep, on horseback, or in an open air bus. Of course there is lots of shopping. Jewelry, Delft pottery, paintings, and locally crafted items are all available.

Planning: Official Tourism Web Site of Aruba, Aruba Tourism, Royal Caribbean Aruba page, Aruba Real Estate.