My boyfriend aka common law husband (if it existed in VA) spent Sept. 6-11 in Aruba for our 10th anniversary. We stayed at the Renaissance Towers and had a great time. Even though I came down with a wicked cold right before our vacation! We didn't mind the traffic noise from our island view balcony. It kind of made us feel more at home. The private island was the best! We hung out at iguana beach. It was nice and quiet there. The water was nice and warm. I swear it seemed like there was a higher salt content than in the Chesapeake Bay because I seemed to float more.

For outings we signed up for the Aruba Kayak Adventure tour. I'm happy to report that we did not tip over in our kayak. Neil was incredibly fun too, and hung back to help out us newbies. I backed out of the snorkeling part on DePalm Island because I was coughing too much. I regretted it so much that I signed us up for the happy hour snorkeling tour two days later. I figured I'd just cough through the tube. There was a mini adventure during that jaunt. A guy on a jet ski followed the catamaran because he wanted a drink. Later, the crew had to rescue him because he couldn't swim fast enought to catch up with the jet ski. The crew was obviously trained to handle emergencies.

We also did the half day Landrover safari/DePalm Island tour. Our guide, Eric, was great. I was so overdressed! The guide books said wear pants and sturdy shoes because of the thorns. Out of the 50 or so people, I was the only person wearing pants and tennis shoes. I am glad I wasn't wearing flip flops.

Restaurants: I wish I could remember the names. One was an Argentian place in the Renaissance plaza area and the other was a Cuban restaurant a couple of blocks from our hotel. Both served great food, but the Cuban place would be our favorite.

At the end of the day, we usually finished poolside back at the hotel. We met a wonderful couple from NY who were on their honeymoon. We met some fun couples during the Landrover tour too....and the kayak tour. Well, OK, everyone we talked to seemed to be enjoying themselves and it was nice to chat with them.

All in all, I can't complain about anything. It was a wonderful vacation and can't wait to go back.

Would that be Cuba's Cookin?

Pierre
21 days at the Renaissance in
14 days at the Renaissance in

We had a great time at Cuba's Cookin too - great food and entertainment.

http://www.cubascookin.com/

Yes, it was Cuba's Cookin, thanks!

the renaissance is always great..my wife and i will be back for our 10th time in 17 days and can't wait..they treat you like kings there and try to make each and every trip the best one of your life..i'm glad you had a great time..we can't wait to be back to our home away from home..