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Vakantie Curacao
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Amsterdam Manor, October 9 - October 15, 2004
By Bill & Marie Greene
Upon finishing a terrific 6 lovely honeymooning nights with the WindJammer
Cruises on October 9, Marie and I arrived at Aruba's beautiful a Amsterdam
Manor Hotel to finish our stay. This picturesque low-rise resort features very
roomy, comfortable air-conditioned suites. We were fortunate to have had a
beautiful view outside our door of the famous Aruban beach tree and turquoise
blue waters.
The outdoor restaurant, Mango's, had a wonderful dinner selection of Garlic
Shrimp, Mahi-Mahi, and pastas - however, the service was slow and, at times,
chaotic. It wasn't the Servers' fault - they certainly were VERY courteous
and tried very hard - I hold management to account. Yet, Aruba, as well as
Bonaire and Curacao, all measure SERVICE TIME much differently than in the
states; Leave your East Coast attitude at home - You'll get your meal when you get
it. That's that. I strongly suggest that when the server arrives, you be
prepared with your drink and/or food order. If you hesitate, you lose - er, lose
TIME, that is.
Anyway, the service dichotomy at Amsterdam Manor's Mangos was a Bartender
named "FILO". Get to know him. His hospitality and service far exceeds anyone
we've come across on any of the ABC Islands. He will not only try to learn
your name, but he will help you get a feel for the area - all while keeping your
drinks in hand; All of this BEFORE we tipped him - and we tipped him well.
He deserved it and I suggest you do the same - he'll become a friend even
before you do so.
As per the Island, we STRONGLY suggest you rent a car - and rent it from
Economy Car Rental. The rates and service are terrific and it's the only way to
properly explore the island. However, take the time to learn the rules of the
road - signs and all. My new wife, Marie, is a professional driver and her
attention to the rules of the road made a difference. Make sure you get the
map from Economy. There are very FEW road signs and I promise you WILL get
lost, if at least momentarily. No worries, 'though, it's a small island and
you'll make your way.
Anyway, we took our little Toyota Yarris compact all the way from the upper
side of the island at the California Lighthouse, all the way down to Point
Colorado. We later traveled into the Arikok National Park's dirt road trail - which
our Rental Agent warned us against doing; No worries again, it was perfectly
safe - but then again, we are from Colorado. Ha!
We also managed to barely find our way to the Natural Bridge on the other
side of the island. A must see as the coast is much different on that side of
the island.
Happy surprises included snorkling up near the coast below the lighthouse
and visiting the exact opposite end of the island down near Point Colorado. We
ventured into the farthest point there and discovered Coco Bar. The owner
will probably be the one who will wait on you and he's terrific as well.
If you need to escape from the many hot, open air restaurants, I suggest
dining at Buchaneers and having breakfast inside the hotel right next to
Amsterdam Manor.
All in all, it was wonderful and all of the local people are unpretentious
and nice - it's only the many Cruise Ship tourists who will be annoying, if
anything.
If you have any questions, please feel free to email me about our great time
in Aruba, Curacao, and Bonaire.
Best regards for a safe and trip on One Happy Island!
Bill Greene, Producer, Piranha Films in Denver, CO
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