Page 10 - AHATA

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local Tuesday 10 december 2024
Visit the island’s hidden natural pools

(Oranjestad)—Amongst the Daimari Ranch, Conchi— If you decide to hike from
countless beaches surround- also known “Cura di Turtuga the entrance of the Arikok
ing the island that are well- (Turtle’s Cove) or just Natu- National Park, this is also
known and frequently visited, ral Pool—is reachable with possible: do bring plenty
there are an additional two any 4x4 vehicle or by foot of protective clothing and
“hidden” natural pools that if you’re up for a long hike. enough water and food—it
are situated in the northern However, since it is part of could take you up to three
coast of the island, two ideal the National Park, you must hours to hike there!
stops in your tour itinerary. first get permission from park
management to enter. You However, when you eventu-
Conchi (Natural Pool) would have to purchase ally do get there, you will be
For many years, Conchi was a day pass, and receive a greeted with crystal blue wa-
the only natural pool that we wristband as proof of pay- ter surrounded by a natural
had on the island. Located ment. Once you’ve com- rock formation that protects den there. Because it’s still lagoon where wild northern
in the Arikok National Park, pleted that, you are set! you from the wild waves on so new, there is no official waves crash into each other.
near Boca Keto and the the other side. Though the name for it, but most people Sounds scary, but if you look
pool is located on the north- just call it the cave pool. down on your right, you’ll see
ern side of the island (where a calm, crystal blue little pool
the sea is largely rough and Just like the Conchi, the new in the corner. To get there,
largely no suitable for swim- natural pool is situated on you have to climb down
ming), the pool itself is very the northern coast of Aruba. some stairs. Be careful when
calm. It’s also relatively However, this pool is much climbing down and follow
deep, and you can climb easier to reach with any type the instructions of your tour
up the rocks and jump in! of vehicle, and there is no guide if you have one.
hiking needed. This spot has
Cave Pool also become a regular stop And just like Conchi, this pool
This relatively new pool ap- for touring visitors. also has a jumping spot, and
peared just a few years ago, a rope to climb back up the
when a part of the dried up When you get there, may- boulder.
coral floor broke off and cre- be you won’t be able to
ated a partition between spot the pool immediately, Picture of cave pool is cred-
the ocean and what is now because you will probably ited to RockaBeach Tours
the natural pool that is hid- notice the moon-shaped

Aruban snacks and where to find them

ORANJESTAD — Want to taste even fish! Or perhaps you might
something different for a change? want to try a croquette, locally
How about some Aruban snacks called a “kroket,” which is a crusty
that you can find all around the is- fried snack with typically a meat
land? Hop in your car, and go to and dough mix filling. The Aruban
these locations to find some of the kroket is based on its Dutch coun-
most popular and tasty snacks that terpart, the “bitterbal”.
are beloved by our locals.
These two snacks are typically
One of the staples of Aruban cui- found in all local snack trucks,
sine and snacks is the Pastechi. which can be found all over the
Pastechi is a Caribbean fried pas- island, including on the side of the
try that is filled with cheese, meat, main road that stretches from San
chicken, veggies and sometimes Nicolas to the Hotel Area. You can
also find pastechis and krokets at
local bakeries and snack shops,
like Bright Bakery in Piedra Plat,
Huchada in Santa Cruz or Paste-
chi House in the city center. These
places may also sell other snacks
and sandwiches too, perfect for
on-the-road lunch break. main road). 2. Along the main road next to
the airport field.
While you’re at it, why not accom- If you are looking for something a 3. At the California Light House.
pany your snack with a refreshing bit more fresh and healthy, why not 4. At the Alto Vista Chapel.
“batido”? Batidos are fruit shakes, try some coconuts, or shaved ice
typically made with added milk from local vendors? These vendors These vendors may also sell other
for some creaminess. However, carry their little shop at the back of delights, like the beloved coconut-
you can also ask to hold the milk. their truck, so they are ever-mov- based dessert “cocada” or pea-
Batidos are commonly found in ing around the island. However, nuts. All in all, in Aruba, you can
snack shops too. You may find there are a few spots where you always find some place to take a
some batido shops next the flee can almost always find a coconut/ break and have a bite of some-
markets downtown, or if you’re on shaved ice vendor: thing local, you maybe just might
your way to San Nicolas, at Mau- 1. Right next to the Red Anchor have to look for them!
chi Smoothies and Juice Bar in Sa- in San Nicolas, on the way to
vaneta (located at the side of the Baby Beach. Photo credit: wheninaruba.com