Page 11 - AHATA

Thursday 28 November 2024 locAl
A10

Aruba’s Nature is to be Cherished

ST. CRUZ — The national park Arikok their eggs on Aruba's beaches?
comprises almost 18 % of the is- In the national park, a Least Tern
land. Its rugged terrain, desert-like (Sternula antillarum) keeps a strict
hills filled with tall cacti, breathtak- eye on a very special event taking
ing coastline and protected local place below on the beach: a ma-
flora and fauna welcome you to be jestic Leatherback (Dermochelys
explored. There is numerous wild- coriacea) heads back to sea after
life to discover like for example the laying her eggs, while another nest
sea turtle who lays his eggs on the laid 2 months ago by the same
park’s beaches. There are more female hatches. A very rare oc-
places on the island that are a currence of daytime nesting and
preserved area like the Bubali Plas hatching. Sea turtles prefer nesting
which is a bird sanctuary. in the cool and dark hours of the
night. And hatchlings usually wait
The national park Arikok takes you for the cue of cooling surface sand
on a memorable journey of the before emerging.
islands past offering unique geo-
logical, cultural and historical sites. Bubali Magic
These can all be enjoyed and ex- This beautiful close-up image of
plored either on your own or dur- the pink bird is courtesy of Michiel
ing guided tours. A wide variety Oversteegen of the Aruba Bird-
of educational and informative life Conservation. This important The Roseate Spoonbill remains an activities have on our nature, for
programs and fun activities is avail- foundation showcases and builds uncommon sight as they are vul- example the ATV vehicles cause
able. awareness of Aruba’s birds and nerable to degradation of feeding a lot of dust, noise and leave tire
other native flora and fauna. You and nesting habitats (Wetlands). tracks. Animals live in these areas
Did you know that four of the in to- may have seen a ‘pink cloud’ late- (Source: arikok national park) where the vehicles run, often with
tal seven species of sea turtle lay ly at the Bubali or Spanish Lagoon high speed and with detrimental
Wetlands areas? It’s most likely to The aforementioned is just a part consequences to flora and fauna.
be Roseate Spoonbills (Ajaia aja- of what Aruba’s nature has to of- Motorized vehicles are forbidden
ja) or ‘Chucharon Cora’ as they fer. We cannot stress enough to to drive on the sand dunes in the
are known in Papiamento. This un- go, see for yourself. The island has Northern part of the island and all
usual looking bird forages in shal- the most beautiful beaches but it beaches in Aruba are forbidden
low muddy water while sweeping is also worthwhile to go beyond for any motorized vehicle. Treasure
its flattened bill from side to side this and get an idea of our entire our island to enjoy it like you do: as
to catch small fish, crustaeceans island. Lately there is a discussion a tropical and natural paradise.
and other aquatic invertebrates. going on about the effect certain We truly appreciate it!q

Aruban snacks and where to find them

One of the staples of Aruban cuisine and snacks
is the Pastechi. Pastechi is a Caribbean fried
pastry that is filled with cheese, meat, chick-
en, veggies and sometimes even fish! Or per-
haps you might want to try a croquette, locally
called a “kroket,” which is a crusty fried snack
with typically a meat and dough mix filling. The
Aruban kroket is based on its Dutch counter-
part, the “bitterbal”.

These two snacks are typically found in all local
snack trucks, which can be found all over the
island, including on the side of the main road and healthy, why not try some coconuts, or
that stretches from San Nicolas to the Hotel shaved ice from local vendors? These vendors
ORANJESTAD — Want to taste something dif- Area. You can also find pastechis and krokets carry their little shop at the back of their truck,
at local bakeries and snack shops, like Bright so they are ever-moving around the island.
ferent for a change? How about some Aruban Bakery in Piedra Plat, Huchada in Santa Cruz or However, there are a few spots where you can
snacks that you can find all around the island? Pastechi House in the city center. These places almost always find a coconut/shaved ice ven-
Hop in your car, and go to these locations to may also sell other snacks and sandwiches too, dor:
find some of the most popular and tasty snacks perfect for on-the-road lunch break.
that are beloved by our locals. 1. Right next to the Red Anchor in San Nicolas,
on the way to Baby Beach.
While you’re at it, why not accompany your 2. Along the main road next to the airport field.
snack with a refreshing “batido”? Batidos are 3. At the California Light House.
fruit shakes, typically made with added milk for 4. At the Alto Vista Chapel.
some creaminess. However, you can also ask
to hold the milk. Batidos are commonly found These vendors may also sell other delights, like
in snack shops too. You may find some batido the beloved coconut-based dessert “cocada”
shops next the flee markets downtown, or if or peanuts. All in all, in Aruba, you can always
you’re on your way to San Nicolas, at Mauchi find some place to take a break and have a
Smoothies and Juice Bar in Savaneta (located bite of something local, you maybe just might
at the side of the main road). have to look for them!q

If you are looking for something a bit more fresh Photo credit: wheninaruba.com