Written by Kim
We arrived in Aruba at 4:30 pm on Saturday and knew we were in for a new experience. We pregamed a bit at The Tavern lounge with our favorite bartenders, Imade, Erwin & Vivian, while waiting for the crowds to subdue before disembarking. After we got off we stopped for some drinks to watch the sunset at The Paddock.
We then moved in to Lucy’s for a few bucket of beers as we awaited the Torch Parade. We knew the parade started at 8 pm but were uncertain of its route or how long it would take to reach us. Lucy’s had last call at 10 pm and kicked us out so we moved back to the Paddock for another bucket of beers. The Paddock’s last call was 11 pm and still no parade so we went out to the street to stand with the many other spectators who had gathered. Many locals lined the streets. The man next to us offered us some beers from his cooler and we became fast friends while waiting. Finally around midnight the parade arrived.
The Torch Parade is the Aruba’s first official Carnival parade of the season—known locally as “Fakkel.” This dazzling event marks the official beginning of Aruba’s Carnival celebrations and promises an unforgettable night of music, dance, and community spirit.
Each group had their own theme. We were told there were 9 groups but we only stayed for 3
We slept in a bit the following morning but our room steward knocked around 10:15 and we scurried to get up before breakfast closed. Coffee was badly needed.
We planned to go to a quiet beach after a long night. We walked down to Surfside Beach. It was a pretty detoxing walk of about 1 1/2 miles.
After our healthy walk we learned that they had a private event so were not renting chairs. Ugh! It was Sunday so many things were closed also. We tried to get a cab back but no luck so we rested a few minutes before our walk back to the ship.
I tried to hail a few cabs on our way back but no one stopped. It was all good we needed a good walk but it was very hot so we stopped a few times in the shade.
After a good 3 mile walk we relaxed by a quiet pool for the afternoon
This evening there was a party for Super Mario’s 1000th cruise. The corporate hotel director flew in from Miami to join the celebration on the Promenade
The entertainment tonight was a singer, Michelle Murin, who I’ve seen before. Just like the production shows on the ship her set was identical to last time I saw her. I wish they would have some new content in the shows. The production shows are the same as they were the first time this ship sailed in 2005.
Now we will have 2 days at sea before our last stop at CocoCay or should I say Perfect Day at CocoCay like the crew always says. Until then…,,
