Page 12 - AHATA

a8 local
Saturday 8 November 2025

Iberostar Hosts Shoco Ambassador Training for the Community of Aruba

As part of its ongoing commitment portunity to purchase recycled
to a responsible model of tour- Shoco pins, with proceeds donat-
ism and biodiversity conservation, ed to Aruba Birdlife Conservation.
JOIA Aruba by Iberostar, through Each handcrafted pin, made from
Aula di Lama, which is part of recycled wood, symbolizes their
Iberostar Foundation, success- new role as a Shoco Ambassador.
fully hosted the Shoco Ambassa-
dor Training with collaboration of This initiative is part of the global
the Aruba Bird Life Conservation. movement Iberostar Wave of
The initiative, open to the general, Change. It focuses on providing
took place from October 27 to 31, transformative solutions in the field
2025. of circular economy, promoting
the consumption of responsible tional quality and heartfelt ser-
The free training invited members sourced seafood, and improving vice. At the same time, it upholds
of the Aruban community to par- the health of coastal areas. Be- a responsible tourism model that
ticipate in an engaging and edu- yond the environmental concerns, prioritizes the well-being of both
cational experience dedicated tainability into its daily operations the movement also embraces people and nature.
to protecting and celebrating and company culture. broader social and sustainabil-
the island’s national symbol, the ity goals across the destinations Welcoming 2.5 million guests an-
Shoco (Athene cunicularia aru- The public sessions also welcomed where Iberostar operates. Through nually and boasting a prime
bensis). The sessions aimed to raise partners and employees from oth- education, conservation, and beachfront presence, the Ibero-
awareness of local conservation er hotels, such as Boardwalk and community engagement, Iberos- star Beachfront Resorts brand of-
efforts and promote a responsible Marriott, along with students from tar continues to inspire both locals fers three distinct segments to fulfill
coexistence between people and the University of Aruba. In addi- and visitors to help preserve Aru- every traveler’s holiday dreams.
nature. It also highlighted proj- tion, local media outlets attended ba’s unique biodiversity for gen- Iberostar Waves delivers fun-filled
ects such as the Shoco Sanctuary one of the sessions to learn more erations to come. experiences, perfect for families
at Tierra del Sol Resort & Golf by about this initiative and help share and couples who love the beach.
Iberostar and Shoco Boulevard at its message of conservation across About Iberostar Hotels & Resorts Iberostar Selection provides pre-
JOIA Aruba by Iberostar. the Aruban community. Iberostar Hotels & Resorts is the mium, spacious, and relaxing stays
hotel division and core business with exceptional service. Lastly,
In total, nearly 800 people took Next steps include extending the of Iberostar Group, a 100% family- JOIA by Iberostar is a collection of
part in the Shoco Ambassador training to the Aruba Airport Au- owned Spanish multinational with luxury resorts in exclusive locations,
Training, including more than 360 thority (AAA) and local schools, almost 70 years of history in tour- distinguished by highly personal-
employees from JOIA Aruba by continuing the mission to raise ism, with its business origins dating ized and refined service.q
Iberostar and Tierra del Sol Golf awareness and inspire environ- back to 1877. Its portfolio features
Course by Iberostar. This achieve- mental stewardship across the 32,000 rooms across 100 four- and *Iberostar's portfolio of Beachfront
ment reflects Iberostar’s ongoing island. At the conclusion of each five-star hotels in 13 countries, Resorts excludes its interests in
commitment to embedding sus- session, participants had the op- dedicated to delivering excep- Cuba.
Blackstone Beach

(Oranjestad)—Named after its most recogniz- and the shape of it has been crafted for thou- This beach forms part of the Arikok National
able feature, the Blackstone Beach almost sand years via volcanic eruptions, coral reef Park and is therefore a site that is preserved. This
represents the opposite of the typical Aruban movements and wave activity of the rural is why it is also relatively untouched by commer-
beaches. For one, it has black sand and is cov- northern part of the island. cial influences. Despite being called a beach,
ered in black smooth stones. Secondly, it lies on do note that it is not advised to swim in the wa-
the northern side of the island, away from the Located further east to the Natural Bridge and ter, as the current is very strong and can easily
white sandy beaches of in the southern region. Andicuri Beach, the Blackstone Beach is rela- stray you further in the wild ocean. However,
So, if you feel up for something different—or if tively easy to access. Once you get passed the you can still enjoy a spectacular view of the
it’s opposite day, visit the Blackstone Beach. Ayo Rock Formation, take the Andicuri road stones and the northern ocean that stretches
leading up to Andicuri Beach. There, you can out in front of the beach and take a picture
Blackstone Beach shows the more natural side park your car and take a 1km hike towards with your friends or family! q
of Aruba: the stones that cover the beaches Blackstone Beach.