By John (209.240.221.122) on Tuesday, July 24, 2001 - 09:39 pm

I am going to Aruba the 1st week in Sept, (traveling alone) anyone have any Ideals how a single 35 year old guy in Aruba might have some Fun! I have read alot about restaurants, how about the Nightlife?

By ~Amy~® (206.146.129.38) on Wednesday, July 25, 2001 - 09:28 am

Make sure you go out late - seems like most of the bars downtown really don't get hopping until about 11pm or midnight. Being an old married couple of 5 years now, we have to take a nap after happy hour to get our second wind if we plan on doing the town later on in the evening (LOL!) Try Carlos and Charlies, Club 2000, Bahia, the Cellar, E-Zone, and Mambo Jamba's (all located downtown within walking distance of each other.) Have fun!

By ~Amy~® (206.146.129.38) on Wednesday, July 25, 2001 - 09:33 am

Almost forgot - take the Kukoo Kunuku Bus. It's a party bus that takes you to different bars, etc. You will meet a ton of new friends (all ages take the bus - everywhere from 25 to 65). It ends at midnight at a bar downtown and most people just choose to stay downtown and continue the party. It's a great time!

By John (209.240.220.187) on Wednesday, July 25, 2001 - 09:03 pm

Amy Thanks for the advise! I will be putting it to good use! This is a much needed trip for me, my mother passed away a couple years ago, so I had my father move in with me, so between him and my job I spend most of my Totally Stressed! so I am really looking forward to the 9 days without someone wanting something from me! anyway, one last question, is it pretty easy to get a taxi from downtown at night? Thanks again for the help!

By ~Amy~® (206.146.129.38) on Thursday, July 26, 2001 - 09:50 am

John, There are plenty of taxis but they do charge a dollar or two more after midnight on top of their regular fare. If for some reason you can't find one late at night, have the bartender call for one for you or walk over to the Sonesta Hotel which is located downtown - there are usually some taxis hanging out at the Sonesta or the hotel bellman can call for one for you (that's what we've done in the past anyway when it's really, really late.)

Have a great time and try not to think of normal life stuff for the entire 9 days that you're there. Just relax and enjoy!

By hernan (152.163.206.196) on Wednesday, August 01, 2001 - 08:47 am

Amy....Thanks for the advise to John....I will use them myself on my trip August 16.
Hernan

By ~Amy~® (206.146.129.38) on Wednesday, August 01, 2001 - 09:17 am

Hernan - Have a great time downtown at night! You will be there soon - only about 2 weeks to go!!

By John (209.240.220.219) on Saturday, August 04, 2001 - 10:10 pm

Hernan, Have a great trip! and I hope you can make it back to this BB to tell Me and Amy all about your trip! I am sure I could benefit from your advice as well when you return!!!

Amy, did you go to the Cafe Paddock? I have heard that a fun place to hang out?

PS 26 more days and counting!

By BH (205.215.47.194) on Tuesday, August 07, 2001 - 01:34 pm

Hi. Is November a good time to visit Aruba? I am going for a friend's 30th birthday. Thanks!

By ~Amy~® (206.146.129.38) on Tuesday, August 07, 2001 - 01:58 pm

John - I was only at the Paddock for lunch a few times but it always looks busy at night. If it's not hopping, the other bars/clubs are all walkable from there. Oh - just remembered another one for you to try: La Fiesta (2nd level - open air) just off the main square and only a few steps away from the Cellar.

BH - Any time is a great time to visit Aruba! We've been there a few times in Sept., April, May and Nov. The weather is always good and if it rains at all it is only for a few minutes and then it's sunny again.

By John (209.240.221.66) on Tuesday, August 07, 2001 - 09:36 pm

AMY - I am going to try and hit as many spots as I can, any small neighborhood type bars worth visiting?

By ~Amy~® (206.146.129.38) on Wednesday, August 08, 2001 - 10:09 am

John - Are you going to rent a car while you're there? If you are then I would highly recommend The Old Barber Shop Cafe located in San Nicholas just down the street from the infamous Charlie's Bar on Main Street. We went to the Old Barber Shop Cafe this past spring in the afternoon on one of our exploring days - we met the owners (2 young Dutch guys) and had the best conversation and the best (coldest and cheapest) Amstel Bright on the island. We had promised them we would be back for dinner later in the week but....we never made it. So this is a definite stop for us next year.

Walkable from your hotel, I would recommend Salt n Pepper. Although not a true neighborhood, it is a casual, comfortable, place to have a few drinks and some tapas. We've been there a few times with friends and found it very relaxing (and walkable - it's across the street from the Allegro in the high rise hotel area.)

Also don't miss the Kokoa Pier Bar located on Palm Beach between the Radisson and the Aruba Grand Hotel. It's a bar located on a pier that also has snacks (pizza, sandwiches, chips, etc.) and the view can't be beat. It seems like we always meet interesting people there, too.

By John (209.240.220.195) on Wednesday, August 08, 2001 - 10:34 pm

Amy - Yes I am Planning on renting a car, I haven't yet Made up my mind on how long yet? I am leaning towards 3 days of the 9 days there??? My main goal on this Trip is lots of R&R and I like to play things by ear, Plus if I do bar hopping I really don't think I want to drive, Thats all I would need is to forget where I left the Car? hahahahaha
OK I hope I don't sound stupid but what are Tapas?
PS I was reading the Sun Country BB, I hope I don't run ito a bunch of angry timesharers! hahahahahaha

By ~Amy~® (206.146.129.38) on Thursday, August 09, 2001 - 09:37 am

John - Probably 3 days for a car rental would be enough since you really just want to kick back and relax. You can take a taxi or the bus very easily. When we used to stay for just one week we'd only get a car for 1 or 3 days - it's just as easy to take a taxi to dinner at night and they know where they're going - LOL! But get a car for at least a day and do some island exploring - you can never really get lost. Go check out Baby Beach one day and on the way back stop in San Nicholas for a cold one at Charlie's Bar and the Old Barber Shop Cafe.

Tapas are like little appetizers so you can order alot of different things and have a good variety of food to try. When my husband and I went there with Melvin (the Webmaster), we each ordered 4 tapas and then shared them all (they run about $3-$6 per tapa depending on what you get.)

Sun Country's flights don't start up again until Sept. 8th so you should be void of angry timeshare people from Minnesota - LOL! Plus they're still flying on Saturdays til the end of the year so no one will be angry until January when they switch to Sunday departures.

Ahhhh....all this talk about Aruba makes me want to go there again....soon!! Sept. is still my favorite month to be there - it's quieter and the water is warmer.

By John (209.240.221.122) on Thursday, August 09, 2001 - 09:52 pm

Amy, Thanks It will be the 3 day rental, I think That will be more then enough time to explore the Island on my own,
Tapas sound really good, Sounds Like I will end up starting my Holiday Weight Gain with this Vacation! Hahahahaha
Aren't you and you Husband going to Paris in Sept? It was a big toss-up for me Between Germany and Aruba The prices was pretty close together, I really want to go to a real Octoberfest It came down to the hotels, I did not recongize the Hotel Names In germany, and I was pretty sure Marriot would be a Good Bet. I had a bad experience my last trip to Cancun, I tryed to save money on a cheaper Hotel, Big Mistake, I checked it out on The internet, read past guest comments and it seemed OK, The place was a pit! So I tryed like Heck, to find somewhere else and everything was booked up! really made the week there rotten! I will neverforget that Noisy smelly window air conditioner, That seemed to suck the Humidity right into the room! I would Spray Cologne in it to try and get rid of the smell! It was the worst!

By ~Amy~® (206.146.129.38) on Friday, August 10, 2001 - 09:22 am

John - My past experiences with hotels in Mexico is that we always go for at least a 4-star hotel there because anything less could be exactly what you experienced. Now in Aruba, I have walked through most of the hotels there (and have seen many of the rooms) and I can't say that there is one that I would not stay at (except for the all-inclusive type but that's different) - it seems like they do a great job of keeping them clean and up to date.

Yes, we're going to Paris from Sept. 7-15 to celebrate our 5th wedding anniversary. You won't recognize most of the names of the hotels in Europe because there are so many of them - but in Paris I definitely wanted to stay at a non-chain hotel because I really wanted the whole European ambiance that I had when I went to Italy. So we opted for a smaller hotel near the Opera that is located in a quiet little neighborhood to get the "feel" that we were looking for (but with the modern conveniences - A/C and a bathroom IN our room - LOL!)

You will love the Marriott in Aruba - it is one of the top 3 hotels there along with the Hyatt and the Radisson. We have never stayed there but have been through it and it is probably everything you're looking for in a large hotel.

By John (209.240.221.82) on Friday, August 10, 2001 - 10:20 pm

Amy - Well I am looking forward to hearing about your trip to Paris, and I hope you two have a wonderful trip. For some reason, when I hear about a trip to Paris, The Movie European Vacation, With Chevy Chase, pops right to mind....Your last name isn't Griswald is it? Hahahahaha
I will be checking out the other hotels, in Aruba for my next trip there, I think my next vacation, I will try to get-a-way for a good 2 weeks....Counting the butts I will have to kiss for that! hahahahahaha So will you be posting a trip report on your Paris Trip? Hope So!

By ~Amy~® (206.146.129.38) on Monday, August 13, 2001 - 09:52 am

Hi John - Definitely take a look at the other hotels while you're in Aruba for your next trip - and don't forget to look at the low-rise hotels on Eagle Beach. Palm Beach is where alot of action is (that's where you're staying) but Eagle Beach is awesome - especially between LaCabana and the Costa Linda where there are only a couple of hotels. When we do 2 weeks in Aruba we love to spend one week on Palm Beach and one week on Eagle Beach - feels almost like 2 different vacations.

I will try to post a little something when we get back from Paris (I'm already anticipating getting lost on the Metro! LOL!)

My husband reminded me of another low-key restaurant you should check out since you're staying at the Marriott. Right next to the Marriott (walkable) near the boats is a little place called Hadicuari (I'm sure I just spelled that wrong) - they have great "catch of the day" for $7.50 and great beer prices. We went there for lunch one day - we'll definitely go back again. It's very, very casual there - good place to have a beer and watch the sun go down, too.

By John (209.240.221.130) on Monday, August 13, 2001 - 10:39 pm

I really do want to check out the low rise hotels for my next visit! (If this first one will hurry up and get here!) I have read so many good things about Aruba, and everyone on the BB seem super friendly nice, That includes you of course!
I read someone elses BB and they mentioned That Place "Hadicuari" and they said it was pretty good also! The more laid back the better, Being from Vegas, Beleive me there are no shortages in Crowded Night Clubs and it should be fun to see how the Casinos compare to the ones here! (Good thing I'm not a big gambler) So if the whole vacation is one long Corona Commercial That fine with me!
One more question they do have Laundry service at the Hotels right? That comes from being stop at Customs in Mexico, and I had to open my luggage and I was a little embarrassed because it looked like a dirty laundry bag Hahahahaha!

By ~Amy~® (206.146.129.38) on Wednesday, August 15, 2001 - 09:17 am

Most of the hotels do have laundry service if you need it (we've never used it.)

I have never been to the casinos in Las Vegas so I don't know how they compare to the ones in Aruba. We've only gone to a few in Aruba since we're not big gamblers (a $20 loss is about our limit - LOL!)

By John (209.240.220.227) on Wednesday, August 15, 2001 - 11:06 pm

Amy - Smart Lady! You and your Husband should come to Vegas for a visit. It can be a good cheap get-a-way. During the week you can get really good prices on Hotels, and since you are not a big gambler, there are plenty of good shows, outdoor recreational Places, Golfing, Restaurants and its fun to walk the Strip and see the Hotels. Of course its the most Artificial Place in the world but thats half the fun! So if you guys ever come here look me up, I would be more than happy to take you two out to dinner and drinks!

By ~Amy~® (206.146.129.38) on Thursday, August 16, 2001 - 01:32 pm

John - Vegas is on our "list" of places to go but we just haven't made it there yet (my husband was there many years ago for work but that was before all the huge hotels were built.) I have looked at hotel prices and it looks like the best deal we've found is the Monte Carlo on Sun-Wed. - it averages about $79/night. I also have free airfare through a side-job I have with one of the charter airlines so it would be a pretty cheap trip (well, except for all of the shows that we want to see!)

But we definitely need to get there sometime and would definitely look you up for a couple of drinks.

Hey - how many more weeks until Aruba for you?? Did you book a package with hotel transfers or are you hopping a taxi to the Marriott?

By howardandmary (4.41.158.198) on Thursday, August 16, 2001 - 07:09 pm

Hmmmm, lets see. Aruba questions with a vegas chaser? sounds like H&M territory to us!
WE're in vegas about once a month,and have been to Aruba 12 times.
John,
the casinos in Aruba are very small compared to anything except the local bars in L.V. the casinos range in size from 10,000 to 30,000 sq.ft.all of the games are the same, but with payback percentages hovering around 92%. the tables are set up simular to Vegas, but most casinos only have a few tables.rules are ablout the same. there are a few slot clubs around,with the easiest being the one at the wyndham. cash back and comps for meals(with the points). actual gambling comps are rare! drinks are free while playing, EXCEPT at bars with a sign that says "CASH BAR". even if you are playing a machine at said bar, you will pay for the drink. machines are in U.S. denomiations, and range up to $5 slots, but with the abismal payback, this is not recommended.the Cystal casino is very nice, (downtown) while the Royal Cabanna is the largest(near eagle beach) on palm beach, the Wyndham is our fav, but the Marriotts ranks right up there. the Holiday inn casino (where Carribean stud was invented) is only so-so, even though they just remodeled it. the others on Palm Beach are good, depending on what you are playing. We go for the sun, sand, the water,the food, and to spend a few hours at night walking between casinos.
for a casual gambler, there is enuf entertainment to satisfy, but not so much to overwelm.
E-mail us if you have more specific questions.

By John (209.240.220.219) on Thursday, August 16, 2001 - 09:58 pm

Amy - 2 weeks from Today (thursday) I am now really in the count down mode! I didn't make any Hotel Transfer plans So I am going to Grab a taxi, I have used hotel Bus tranfers before in Mexico, and it always seem to take so long with having to stop at every hotel along the way. I think I have everything for the trip, and I keep having to tell myself its to early to get the Suit Case out of the Garage and start my pre-packing. (I am so excited and really looking forward to this trip) If I get a chance I will use the Internet center at the Marriott and Pop into the BB an let you Know have everythings going in Aruba, You know rub it in a little! Hahahaha! Your trip to Paris is also right around the corner, right?
The Monte Carlo is a really nice hotel, and thats a pretty good price! So hopfully you and your Husband will make here one day, if I don't run into you in Aruba first!

By John (209.240.220.219) on Thursday, August 16, 2001 - 10:05 pm

H&M - Thanks for the info on The Aruba Casinos compared to Vegas, You must Live Close to Vegas to get here one a month? I have One other Question What the minimum bet on Game tables in Aruba? Thanks!

By ~Amy~® (206.146.129.38) on Friday, August 17, 2001 - 09:27 am

John - You were smart to not purchase the transfers - especially since the Marriott is THE very last stop! Just grab a taxi right outside of the terminal and away you go. I also find I get the most (and best) information from the taxi drivers - I'm usually hanging over the front seat asking a million questions (and I always learn something new every year!)

Yes, Paris is right around the corner for us, too - we'll be there from Sept. 7-15.

Okay, John - we will see you in either Aruba or Vegas!! I know we'll definitely be back to Aruba next year but not sure which month yet (either April or Sept.) I hope you enjoy Aruba as much as we do!

Howard & Mary - I just learned so much about casinos from your post - I am such a novice when it comes to gambling. My husband did win a bunch at the Royal Cabana casino playing the video Yahtzee game and neither one of us can still understand how he did it - LOL!!

By howardandmary (4.41.158.198) on Friday, August 17, 2001 - 07:30 pm

congrats on the WIN! sometimes the best play at a slot is to not know how to play.
most of the tables have the minimums set up like vegas, as little as $1 during the slow time,(afternoon) then bumping it up to $2 and even $5 at nite.on the weekends, Aruba gets a lot of trafic from Venezula, and the casinos will bump up the table price accordingly. these are like the L.A. folk going to Vegas for the weekend, they all hit the road by late afternoon on Sunday, to get back to work on Monday.
By the way, we live in Santa Monica, Ca- only a 35 min. flight to vegas.

Mary in a vegas tournament

By John (209.240.220.163) on Saturday, August 18, 2001 - 01:19 pm

Amy - This will be my first trip booking everything Online, I always thought it would be a fun job being a tavel Agent, but with everything so easy online, I wonder if they are a dieing breed? Oh I have another question, Do they try and sell you Timeshares while there? Last Time I was I Mexico they were really pushing the timeshare thing.

H&M - Looks like (from the pic) Casinos look the same no matter where you go, I will most likely be doing most of my gambling at the Roulette (sp?) Tables. If I was you Iwoul keep flying to Vegas, specially Holiday weekends, I have heard about the Bumper to bumper traffic from here to CA on Sunday afternoons

By ~Amy~® (206.146.129.38) on Monday, August 20, 2001 - 09:17 am

John - You may be approached on the beach by people selling timeshares but a polite "no, thanks, I'm not interested" does the trick. They are very good about taking "no" for an answer - we've never had anyone pester us like they do in Mexico.

By Sue W (158.252.22.96) on Monday, August 20, 2001 - 03:53 pm

John,
I agree with Amy...we were approached the moment we got out of car at the lighthouse. We said no and the lady was most polite, gave us history of the lighthouse, routes to take to see rest of the desert side, and even asked if we wanted to have our picture taken. We were amazed.

Downtown, we were approached several times too and again, a simple no is all it took. Now here, as we approached the car to return to resort, some guy was washing the windshield. He was babbling away at us. We said nothing, handed him $1 and off he went. He was happy, he had made a buck and we didn't have any confrontation, so we were happy too.

Amy, how's that trip coming along?

By ~Amy~® (206.146.129.38) on Monday, August 20, 2001 - 05:33 pm

Sue W - I'm still trying to find someone with an electrical adaptor that I can borrow so we don't have to buy one. I can't live without my hairdryer in Paris - LOL! 3 more weeks and counting. And I'm already in the pre-planning stages for Aruba 2002 (that's me...the PLANNER!) - right now trying to decide between April or Sept. next year.

By Lennie (165.247.50.52) on Monday, August 20, 2001 - 08:51 pm

AMY....check with US office or travel agent to see if hotel has dryers or will lend you an adapter
we found many hotels in France will loan you an adapter be sure to ride around Paris at night...incredible!!

By JOHN (209.240.220.163) on Monday, August 20, 2001 - 09:18 pm

Amy and Sue thanks for the info! I have I think, One last question and its about money, do I want to take large bills small bills Traveler checks? I guess my biggest question is if I buy something for 20.00 buck and pay with a Hundred dollar bill am I more likely to get US dollar or Florin in change? Thanks John

By ~Amy~® (152.163.204.203) on Monday, August 20, 2001 - 10:25 pm

Lennie - Thanks for the info! I will have my travel agent check for us. And we'll be sure to do Paris at night, too. Already have a night cruise on the Seine booked.

John - I would stick with smaller bills like 20's or 50's (either cash or traveler's checks). There have been some years when we've been there where we would see signs on stores that said they were not accepting $100 bills. You will always get your change in U.S. except at the grocery store you will sometimes receive a few Florin coins back. If you take travelers checks and need cash for a taxi the front desk at your hotel will be able to cash them for you in U.S.

By Sue W (158.252.20.114) on Tuesday, August 21, 2001 - 08:04 am

Amy, nothing wrong with being a pre-planner. Sounds like organization to me.

Somewhere in this house we have an adapter that my son took to Europe 4 yrs ago. I would be more than happy to send it to you if I could find it. If I remember correctly we bought it at Walmart. We were looking for it last night and came across his little travel iron, so it can't be too far away. He said he remembers it having the American Tourister logo on it. I certainly understand the hairdryer situation. We always travel with ours too.

By Suzi (208.173.17.110) on Tuesday, August 21, 2001 - 12:14 pm

John, carry smaller bills for convenience. As Amy mentioned, some places don't like $100 bills. There is no problem getting American money back in change. We have always gotten bills back in US dollars without asking. Sometimes the "change" will be in florins, some of which we kept as souveniers the first couple of trips. If you don't want the florins, ask for US coins and I think in Aruba you will not have any problem if they have it. Not like in Mexico where they want everything in US dollars and give all change in pesos (at a very unfavorable rate).

By howardandmary (4.41.158.198) on Tuesday, August 21, 2001 - 12:37 pm

all of the casinos will also cash travelers checks. but keep in mind not to carry too much cash. most of the restaurants will take all credit cards, and most of the stores will too. I wouldn't try to pay for groceries with plastic, but everything else is O.K..if you do any of the beach activities, you'll need cash, unless you can charge it to your room. We don't remember where you're staying, but most of the hotels have activities desk that will set up the stuff for you and charge your room.

By ~Amy~® (206.146.129.38) on Tuesday, August 21, 2001 - 01:58 pm

Sue W. - Thanks so much for the offer of the adaptor! But I don't want to put you through any trouble. I have a couple of more resources to check yet on the adaptor situation (and I'll check prices at Wal-Mart, too - I didn't know they carried such a thing!)

By howardandmary (4.41.158.198) on Tuesday, August 21, 2001 - 04:28 pm

walmart in the suitcase aisle

By John (209.240.221.66) on Tuesday, August 21, 2001 - 10:05 pm

Thanks for the money advice everyone, again that was a big help! I can't believe I have only 9 days left until I leave! I think I have all my ducks in a row, so I am good to go! But will take an last minute advice you guys wish to give! I will need cash to leave Aruba also, is that 20 - 30 bucks?

Amy - Wal-Mart has everything! I think Target also sells the adapters and remember to pack it in your carry-on! Oh By the way I am a pre-planner also, and I have already started pre-packing, and I dont think a carry-on is going to cut it. I am sure I will over pack, oh-well better safe than sorry, right?

Suzi- I went to Mexico a couple years ago, and I still have a little bag of Pesos around here somewhere, Must be about 20.00 worth!

H&M - I totally forgot about the Casinos, I haven't been to a casino yet that doesn't have at least a half dozen way to get money! Thanks again!

By Suzi (208.173.17.110) on Wednesday, August 22, 2001 - 11:25 am

John, your departure tax should be included with your plane fare. Check your ticket and it probably has it included somewhere. Our tickets always have it pre-paid in the price. If not, I think the tax is $32.50 or very close.

By ~Amy~® (206.146.129.38) on Wednesday, August 22, 2001 - 11:29 am

John - I'll have to check out Target first since we're in "Target country" here in Minneapolis.

About the cash to leave Aruba - years ago you used to have to pay $20 at the Aruba airport for your departure tax. But now all of those pesky taxes are included in your airline ticket so you don't need to set aside your $20 to get home anymore.

Last minute advice...let's see...my favorite thing to this day to pack is our small soft-sided cooler. We use it as carry-on luggage and then when we get to Aruba we use it as a cooler for the beach (fill it with ice from the ice machines at the hotel and beer, water, snacks, fruit, etc.) We never leave home without it!

By John (209.240.220.227) on Wednesday, August 22, 2001 - 10:02 pm

Suzi - I bought trip on the Internet from a travel website, so I have Ticketless Travel, which at first freaked me out! I had this thought of getting to the airport and the Airlines not having my reservation or the Hotel Not having the reservation. So I called Both the airlines an hotel to confirm and everything was just fine! (knock on wood) I still would feel better with tickets. I do have an Itenary stating that I payed and and list the flights and Hotel dates. So this is a first for me on Ticketless travel. One thing good is you can go directly to the gate no checking in first!

By Sue W (158.252.20.102) on Wednesday, August 22, 2001 - 11:44 pm

Amy----still haven't found that stupid adapter and it's driving me crazy. Where is that darn thing! I was in Walmart today and they are like $25 there, so I'm on a mission to find it for you. That way you can spend your $ buying more film for your camera instead Translation: looking forward to seeing your Paris pix.

By ~Amy~® (206.146.129.38) on Thursday, August 23, 2001 - 09:18 am

Sue W. - Speaking of film, my husband had a good idea and picked up some black and white film (which is kind of difficult to find but we located some at Target) so we're taking two cameras - one for color photos and one for black and white photos. He said every time he sees pictures of Paris that he likes they're always in black and white. So we're going to see how artistic we can be - LOL!

By Sue W (158.252.20.254) on Thursday, August 23, 2001 - 09:38 am

Amy---we did same when we went to DC last Feb. Took about 3 rolls of b/w (there are 2 different types, you know). Some pictures were quite dramatic in b/w others came out better in color. May have to go to a camera shop to develop for best results. Be sure and tell them to develop on b/w paper. Even then our pictures came out with a bluish tint.

One of our daughters went to a winter wedding in the snow and also shot b/w. Effect came out wonderful but she didn't tell them (k-mart developing) ahead of time and all pictures had a brown (sepia) look to them. The first set they charged her regular price. When she asked them to redo on b/w paper, it came to $11, with no credit against the first set...grrrrrr.

One more hint...if you end up buying film overseas make sure the box has C-41 on it. It's the international developing code. Some film bought overseas have different # and can only be developed there and not in the US.

By ~Amy~® (206.146.129.38) on Thursday, August 23, 2001 - 11:12 am

Sue W. - Hmmmm....I hope we bought the right type of b/w film? I'll have to look at it tonight and tell you what it is.

Now, about developing....I always take my pictures to ProEx (developing "chain") because they put our photos on our AOL account for free. So I should just tell them to print it on b/w paper?

There is more to this than I had thought!

By John (209.240.220.235) on Friday, August 24, 2001 - 11:01 pm

Amy - You might want to take you B/W film to a Profession film Developer, and have them develop the Negs and then give you a proof contact sheet or regular prints this will help insure good quality of the negs, If you have a Phot you really like they can also enlarge it to an 8x10 or bigger for framing. Just a thought! Most Photo places are able to put the photos on Disk or CD for you also. + you can take the Disk to Kinko (or Copy Centers and Have them Print out B/W Laser Copyies to what ever size you would like 8x10 is around a Buck?

Hey, 6 more days to go! I am going to go get my cooler tommorrow + other last minute thing, The company I work for had a promotion this month, I ended up with 140.00 in Wal-Mart gift Certificates, so thats where I am going!

By ~Amy~® (152.163.197.56) on Saturday, August 25, 2001 - 10:54 am

Hey John - Happy Wal-Mart shopping! What perfect timing right before your trip!

I am off to Target today to price adapters (hope they're not too expensive.)

My friend, Stacy, is headed to Aruba on Sunday with her mom for 3 weeks (they've been going every year now for over 19 years!) She's from NY State so I'm buying her a Powerball lottery ticket - I told her if she (or I) win to just stay in Aruba and my hubby and I will fly down, too, right after Paris - LOL!!

Thanks for the B/W film processing tips!

By John (209.240.220.227) on Saturday, August 25, 2001 - 01:18 pm

Amy If you win That Power Ball Games, you may have enough my to buy Aruba! or at least a Nice Hotel where you will let BB stay for Free! Right! May Aunt Lives in Indiana (thats where I am originaly from) and she bought Tickets for me! Thats a whole lot of Money, its almost scary! PS if I win Look for that Adapter in the mail! hahahahaha

Thanks for The Happy Shopping wish, I will need it Thae Wal-Mart here gets so crowded on Weekends it can drive you crazy!

I wish I could get-a-way for 3 weeks, That would be Great! At work There is a Lady, she is from Germany and she was telling me the normal Vacation time is 6 weeks a year! wouldn't thatbe nice!

By Lou (172.149.170.243) on Sunday, August 26, 2001 - 05:18 am

Has anyone visited any of the other close islands.
Do they have day trips and how much do they cost?
How long are the trips are they by plane or a ferry service. I leave on Sep 01, for Aruba and I'll be staying at La Cabana. Any info. on grocery shopping, fish market or any info at all will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks

By Suzi (205.188.197.43) on Sunday, August 26, 2001 - 09:47 am

Lou, you won't find ferries going to the other islands. Bonnaire isn't very far, but the waters are too rough. There used to be a ferry to Venezuela, but that is such a horrid place to visit, they went out of business.

Depalm Tours offers day trips to Curacao and to Caracas, Venezuela. Curacao is interesting, the people friendly and can make a nice trip. I do not recommend Caracas to anyone. There is no great shopping, the people will treat Americans from shabby to downright rude and nasty, the poverty is hearbreaking, and the place is dangerous. It is definitely not worth the time or money away from Aruba.

La Cabana is a great resort. We have spent three vacations there and loved every one. There are several grocery stores about 1.5 miles south of La Cabana on the main road going to Oranjested. Our favorite is the in the certified mall, but there is a Ling & Sons and a couple others. You can catch the bus for $2 round trip if you aren't buying more than you want to carry, or once we took the bus for $1.25 each down, loaded up on soft drinks and food and took a taxi back to the resort - seems like it was $5.

If you want some things when you arrive, there are a couple of ways to do it. If you take a taxi from the airport, have them stop at the grocery on the way to the resort as you will pass right by them. Or Ling & Sons offers a delivery service where you can order items on line and they will deliver upon your arrival. We haven't used this service, so I can't give a personal experience on it.

Hope this info helps and you have a great trip!

By John (209.240.220.219) on Sunday, August 26, 2001 - 10:25 pm

Amy - How did you do on Powerball?

By ~Amy~® (206.146.129.38) on Monday, August 27, 2001 - 09:10 am

John - I'm at work today so I guess that answers your question - LOL! Actually, we did match the Powerball number so I guess we get a couple of bucks for that - woohoo!

I did see the Aruba airfare special for Sept. that I was originally waiting for until we decided to go to Paris instead: Only $199 RT (plus taxes) from Minneapolis on Sun Country Airlines departing on Sept. 8th. They always run good specials at the last minute for Sept. and Oct. because it is off-season. I'm a little sad that we're not using the fare BUT we've already been there this year AND we're going to PARIS!!

By John (209.240.221.106) on Monday, August 27, 2001 - 09:49 pm

Amy if I won the Lotto, the first thing I would do is quit my job, so I guess the answer must be No!

That a great deal on the airfare! I hate to say how much I am paying, but thats OK, 0nly 3 more days till I get on that plane, and believe me I am ready! Just a few bills to take care of and thats it!

So you only have a little over a week until you go to Paris, I bet you're excited! By the way did you get you adapter? I saw them at Wal-Mart, I notice they had one for 25.00 and another for 12.00 The 25.00 seem to have more attachment You might just want to buy a US socket and have you Husband wire it up for you, Hahahaha

By Sue W (158.252.22.154) on Monday, August 27, 2001 - 11:36 pm

Amy...I heard on the news tonight a lady in the health field in Minneapolis was one of the 4 winner....my heart stopped. Had to wait until commercial was over (longest commercial in tv history...lol) to see if it was your smiling faces. Well, it wasn't the 2 of you and we weren't the KY winner either and neither were any of our Maine relatives the winner at the NH hdqtrs. Oh well, we'll get them next time!

Wonder how Stacey's doing, as if I have to ask?

By Sue W (158.252.22.154) on Monday, August 27, 2001 - 11:42 pm

To Howard and Mary,

A co-worker and her hubby just got back from Vegas yesterday. After the usual round of questions, I just had to ask...'and how did you do?' She said they won some, they lost some...until their return trip home yesterday. At the airport with 45 min before takeoff, she dropped 50cents in the Red, White, Blue slot and won $1200. How ironic...at the airport on way home!

By ~Amy~® (206.146.129.38) on Tuesday, August 28, 2001 - 09:25 am

Sue W - Boy, I sure wish it was our smiling faces winning the lottery but it wasn't. The woman that won lives in Minneapolis, bought her tickets on Saturday (same day we bought ours), bought them at a grocery store that we frequent, and she works in the health care industry (one of our competitors.) How ironic is that?!? So close, but it wasn't meant to be.

I haven't heard from Stacy yet - she checks her emails fairly regularly at the Bucuti but I can see that she hasn't read mine yet on AOL. I'm sure she's having a great time in Aruba!!

John - I almost bought an adaptor over the weekend but I put out one final plea to friends and family and I finally located someone who had one and is going to let us borrow it. We're going to do a "hand-off" sometime this week.

You are leaving in a couple of days for Aruba!! Are you all packed? Sunscreen, sunglasses, shorts, and money - that's about all you will need - LOL!

By ~Amy~® (206.146.129.38) on Tuesday, August 28, 2001 - 10:20 am

Sue W - I just got an email from Stacy in Aruba (speak of the devil - LOL!) She said to tell everyone that "Aruba sucks.....NOT!!!!" Always the jokester!

She did agree with me that the water is much warmer this time of year than in April. She said she's spending alot more time in the water. I think we will definitely switch our annual trip back to the fall for 2002 (I love playing in the water.)

She and her mom ate at Salt n Pepper last night and loved it (good food, very casual.) They also have their rental car from Jansen's Rent-A-Car (see the big banner and link at the top of the Aruba Forum page when you first log on) and it has the aruba-travelguide.com bumper sticker on it!!!

They also ate at Marina Pirata and said that was great also.

I'll keep you updated when I hear more....

By howardandmary (4.41.158.198) on Tuesday, August 28, 2001 - 04:47 pm

we both hope that doesn't encourage folks to play at the airport.overall, it has the lowest payback percentages in the city. it's always been a great money maker for the people that have the contract.
BUT!!!!! anytime that you win, you're ahead of the game. we know that the percentages in Aruba are worse than even Atlantic City, but we play there, and have won on occasion. go figure........we'll wait while you do.....
back yet?

By Sue W (158.252.20.209) on Tuesday, August 28, 2001 - 05:08 pm

Amy, thanks for update on Stacy...I wrote her a quickie this morning before heading work.

Yes, we absolutely loved it last Sept. Paradise at its best...it doesn't get much better than what we experienced.

By John (209.240.220.195) on Tuesday, August 28, 2001 - 09:24 pm

Amy - I'm Packed and ready to go, just need to pack a few last minute things in my carry-on, and one last Stop at the bank Thursday (my pay day) to get some last minute cash then I leave Thursday Night!!!
I was glad to see you heard from you friend Stacy and That everything is perfect in Aruba! Sue W. confirming that last Sept was paradise at its best! I'm sure I will have the perfect vacation! But...being from Vegas, and we never get rain here, if it did rain (a little), it would be a treat for me! Sounds kinda weird, right. Plus Today was 110 degrees here so 90 will seem kind of chilly! Hahahaha

howardandmary, let me know next time you two make it to Vegas, I would be Happy to meet you 2 for a drink!

By Sue W (158.252.22.27) on Wednesday, August 29, 2001 - 12:48 am

John---Have a terrific time. Relax, enjoy and bring back lots of memories and pictures Looking forward to your trip report.

To all the others---does this mean once John goes this Topic will end? It's been a lot of fun.

By ~Amy~® (206.146.129.38) on Wednesday, August 29, 2001 - 09:33 am

John - BON VOYAGE and have a great trip!!!! By the way, read Duane's Trip Report above for some last-minute information on things to do and places to eat. I'm looking forward to hearing about your trip when you get back so don't you dare forget about us! J

Sue W. - I believe John got us all talking about Aruba again (way to go John!) And now I'm dying to get back there for trip number 7 next year (which seems like a LONG way off right now.) L When is your next trip to Aruba?

Almost forgot...John - you must have an Amstel Bright for me!!! I miss those!!!

By howardandmary (4.41.158.198) on Wednesday, August 29, 2001 - 07:05 pm

john,
we'll be in laughlin for a week in sept., and we're doing Aruba for 18 days this year, so we're both out of vacation days until next year.
unless we get out for a quicky, we think we're done with vegas until at least january.
we always stay downtown, but it'll be nice to hav ea drink. we'll let you know when the dates are booked.

By John (209.240.221.98) on Wednesday, August 29, 2001 - 11:12 pm

Thanks Everyone! and I hope this isn't the end of the Topic... Plus we all have trips coming up that I am sure everyone wants to hear about, Right? You know, Like how Amys Adapter didn't work and how she survived without a Blow dry... (Just Kidding Amy!) But we may need to start a new thread one day, its a whole lot of scrolling down to get here! Hahaha, + We have got to have at least a 1/2 Million Fans out there Living on every word, we sure can't let them down.
So its up to you guys to Hold The Fort down while I'm gone, OK? I have one Last thing to ask from everyone, Thursday Night I want you all to say a prayer that John's Luggage arrives with him in one piece in Aruba! Don't forget now!

Sue - Thanks again for the Nice email! :-)
That was a nice surprise when I got home from work today!

Amy - You can Count on Me having a Amstel Bright For You and Every other BBer! Oh heck how about 3 or 4 for each one of you! hahahaha

Howardandmary - good luck in Laughlin, and if you win big, don't forget abouts us! and we know you have a camera, so we will be looking for more pics of you two in Laughlin and Aruba!

I will Pop in quick Thursday Night For one last Peek at the BB before I go, just in case you guys overlooked anything (yes Sue that includes you...you know the wind) to tell me.
Thanks You are all the Best!

By Sue W (158.252.22.29) on Thursday, August 30, 2001 - 01:17 am

Why, John, you little rascal...lol

He's referring to a female friend that went to Aruba as a single last May. You may have seen me refer to her trip in previous posts/topics. Well, I gave her all kinds of advice/info, pictures, websites, people to email, etc, etc. The one thing I forgot to tell her...the wind! Can you believe it. And guess where she stayed? The Wyndham!!!!!!

Just today she told me she's heading to Thailand end of Sept. Solo again, as she does all her trips. We both burst into laughter on break tonight when she asked if I knew if it was windy there. She will always haunt me about it.

By ~Amy~® (206.146.129.38) on Thursday, August 30, 2001 - 10:08 am

John - I will say a "luggage prayer" for you tonight if you remember to say an "adaptor prayer" for me - LOL! When I was looking for a friend who had an adaptor the first person I called said he had one but it burnt out last year in Austria (smoke actually started coming out of it) so I'm thinking "great, that'll probably happen to me!" If it does, I'll be in the stores in Paris buying a "Paris blowdryer" - I can't live with flat hair - LOL!! I hope the stories I come back with are all ones that I can laugh about!

John, you will have to drop me your email address in the event that we ever get to Vegas - it's still on our list of places to get to (and I have free flights there) - I'm thinking maybe in the next year or so. But if you plan on doing Aruba again, we'll be there Sept. 2002.

Sue W - Shame on you...you didn't tell your friend about the wind in Aruba?!? LOL!!!!!! AND then she stayed at the Wyndham no less - LOL!!!!

By John (209.240.221.74) on Sunday, September 09, 2001 - 03:57 am

Hello everyone I just got Home about 20 minutes ago, I have lots to tell everyone, but after 7-1/2 hours of flying 2 hours at the Aruba airport, and a one at the atlanta airport and not to forget the luggage pick-up, So I guess I am saying I am pooped! till I get a good night sleep, you will have to wait for good stuff PS The Luggage Prayer worked like a charm In Aruba my bag was the 1st to come out! Then the return home it was the second bag to come out!!! Look for more real soon everyone......

By Duane (152.163.204.49) on Sunday, September 09, 2001 - 07:08 am

Welcome home, John. Glad you're back after a (hopefully) great visit. Looking forward to your trip report.

By Suzi (152.163.207.77) on Sunday, September 09, 2001 - 09:54 am

Hope you get some rest and those typing fingers are in good shape, John! We are looking foward to hearing all about your vacation.

By Sue W (158.252.20.137) on Sunday, September 09, 2001 - 11:03 am

Welcome home John!!! Glad all went well and looking forward to your trip report!

By JOHN (209.240.220.211) on Tuesday, September 18, 2001 - 10:27 pm

Thank You Sue! I haven't done my trip report yet, I managed to get a really bad case of the flu the day after I returned, and of course taking time off from work right after a long vacation, Well, lets just say that wasn't going to happen. So look for my tri report in the next few days!!!!

AMY - A big Fat Welcome Back!!!!!

By ~Amy~® (206.146.129.38) on Wednesday, September 19, 2001 - 09:44 am

Thanks, John!!!! Welcome back from Aruba and I am looking forward to reading your trip report!

By JOHN (209.240.221.106) on Wednesday, September 19, 2001 - 11:48 pm

Well you guys I am glad you are Happy to have me back But... I could have stayed another month no problem!!! Going Back to work, really felt like a bad dream the first day! I keep thinking only 2 days ago I as Laying on a sunny beach watching sail boats and windsufers, and know I am Looking at a computer screen, phones rings, Crabby Co-Workers and Thats after I brought back for them The Carribean Coconut Coffee and Aruba Rum Cake.

By ~Amy~® (206.146.129.38) on Thursday, September 20, 2001 - 12:48 pm

Wow, John - you were alot nice to your co-workers than I was! I didn't bring back any treats this time for them. I did send a postcard to my office but it hasn't shown up yet.

Isn't Aruba the most relaxing place to just get away from everyday life?!? Now we have to be back at our jobs so we can afford to go again next year. J