Article from Business Wire

Fitch Ratings affirms the 'BBB' unenhanced long-term rating on approximately $60.3 million of Aruba Airport Authority, N.V.'s (the authority) airport revenue bonds. Net revenues derived from the authority's ownership and operation of Queen Beatrix International Airport (the airport) secure the bonds.

Revenues include an authority-levied passenger facility charge (PFC) and various other passenger fees. The PFC is similar to an authority-levied departure tax and is not subject to the guidelines of the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration PFC program. The Rating Outlook is Stable.

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Article from India Post News Service

Aaah - Aruba!!! This is what you are guaranteed to say, when leaving the island of Aruba.

Nestled in the Southern Caribbean, 15 miles off the coast of Venezuela, the island is 19.6 miles long, and six miles across at its widest point, with a total area of 70 square miles.

About two-and-a-half hours by air from Miami, Florida and within easy flying distance of other U.S. cities flying into Oranjestad, the Island capital, not too far from home, the warm and friendly Arubans will help you make this your second home!

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www.indiapost.com/members/story.php?story_id=5368

Article From San Francisco Chronicle, By Gary Lee, Washington Post

Travelers can sweeten their odds by of finding a dry Caribbean beach in hurricane season by choosing the right island. The safest bets: Aruba, Bonaire or Curaçao, the so-called ABC islands, all at the southernmost tip of the Lesser Antilles; Trinidad and Tobago, beyond the southern end of the Windwards; and Margarita Island, off the coast of Venezuela.

These islands have only a 2 percent chance of a serious storm in hurricane season, according to NOAA, partly because their proximity to the equator prevents the wind conditions hurricanes require. Also, most major storm systems originate in Africa about 10 degrees north of the equator, head northwest across the Atlantic and are usually at a higher latitude than these islands by the time they reach the Caribbean.

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http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2006/06/11/TRGJHJA7V01.DTL

From BusinessWire.com

According to Shelly Shetty, Fitch Senior Director and lead sovereign analyst for Aruba, ‘The government’s efforts to consolidate public finances in 2005 and measures taken to strengthen the financial viability of the universal health scheme are the key factors behind the revision of the Rating Outlook.’ In 2005, the fiscal deficit declined to 3.8% of GDP (on an accrual basis) from 6% of GDP in 2004, and the budget for 2006 is targeting a further reduction to 1.7%. In 2006, the health care scheme (AZV) increased health premiums by two percentage points, which should help in eliminating losses at the AZV, thereby reducing the transfers from the government. The government has also reformed the public sector pension system for new employees, which should limit the increase in future pension liabilities. Although arrears to suppliers and public sector entities increased somewhat in 2005, the stock of arrears declined from 8% of GDP in 2003 to 4.5% of GDP in 2005, thereby boosting fiscal transparency. Finally, the government appears committed to further reducing the fiscal deficit by exercising more expenditure restraint and increasing revenue collection through tax administrative measures and, possibly, a package of tax increases. With these, and even with some slowdown in GDP growth, Fitch expects public debt to begin declining relative to GDP this year.

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By Hazel Heyer of TravelwireNews.com

Oranjestad, Aruba (eTN) — Over 3500 tourists, mostly soul aficionados, descended upon the sunshiny island of Aruba on Memorial Day weekend. A huge wave of soul music lovers rushed to the shores of the Caribbean hot spot during the 6th Annual Soul Beach Music Festival from May 24th to May 29th at the capital.

Voices from America’s high-octane R&B artistes filtered the air all through the starry night at the open-air Havanna Beach Club Amphitheater. Nine-times Grammy-award winner Alicia Keys, Brian McKnight, Anthony Hamilton, Lenny Williams and Nina Sky capped 2 nights of spirit rhythm. Other music headliners graced the 5-day affair complete with beach parties, exclusive nightclub gigs hosted by US dee jays and top radio jocks and sizzling after-show bashes all around the capital, especially along Main Street and around the Oranjestad Harbour.

Crowds packed the ‘lower-box and ringside’ sections for a closer look of their favorite hitmakers. Several partied on their own ultra-luxury yachts and million-dollar speedboats, approximately 25, anchored closest to shore and the cash bars in marquees.

The Aruba Tourism Authority is a host sponsor of the music extravaganza. Minister of Tourism and Transport Edison Briesen said, “Aruba is proud to host the Soul Beach Music Festival for the sixth year as this year’s line-up is remarkably talented.” For years, his office has worked closely with American producer Mark Adkins, raking in sizeable returns for the island as well as tourism sales and marketing all across the US.

“We are very proud that our island has fared well in 2005 in the wake of what was a challenging year for tourism,” said Managing Director for the Aruba Tourism Authority (ATA) Myrna Jansen. The ATA reported a healthy 2005 with total numbers at 732,514 reflecting an increase of 4000 travelers over the year previous. From the US alone, some 532,352 arrived representing over 1000 (or .2 percent) additional guests over 2004 figures. The US market, the biggest for the island, represents 72.7 percent of the island’s total market share. Repeat visitors have constantly registered a 40 percent rate. Memorial Day reported occupancies from 90-100 percen all across Aruba.

In return, Adkins who was given the Ambassador of Goodwill plaque for his efforts in promoting Aruba, said: “Once again, Aruba has embraced the 6th Annual Soul Beach Music Festival by providing a remarkable venue, an attractive setting, as well as gathering place for new and old acquaintances to unite. Vacationers experience the best of what Aruba has to offer in the way of tourism and hospitality.” Adkins engineered the entire four months of sales blitz across many states penetrating R&B markets via radio, print, TV (Black Enterprise SETAR and VH1 Soul) and live events from East to West Coast.

Briesen added, “We have a lot of events. This is just one of the special events that generate general traffic. In the line of attracting diversified markets, this is one good and activity. We do receive guests from this event since launching it in the ’90s.” Soul Beach ups the tourism ante with results clearly reflected on the US market count. Traffic does not only come from North America but also from non-traditional markets where the event is not directly pitched to. Next on the calendar is the 5th Annual Aruba Music Festival on Columbus Day weekend, made electric by the world famous rock and roll bands.

“It is encouraging to see this big number of tourists who have traveled here safely. Through the years since 1995 of doing this as the sort of Caribbean Music ambassador, I am happy to see that we inspire. Spirit of soul music is all about collective consciousness. At the time when the negativity has the microphone and speakers, soul music can show positivity will prevail over negativity. In the end, hope prevails over pessimism,” enthused Adkins.

On the airline scene, it was one of chaos. Couple Jess S. and Shawn B. from Miami had been separated on their flight from Florida as American Airlines operated full before, during and after the holiday. They split cabins just to get on-board and escape to Aruba this weekend. Ten US airliners serving Aruba daily don’t seem enough to absorb traffic.

But Ann Parker, resident of Trinidad and Tobago flew in specially to see her American idols. She said the trip’s not only good value for money; the event is something she looks forward to and supports from year to year.

New Yorker Sally Simpson, time-share owner at the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino was on R&R when she heard about Soul Beach. She did not have to think twice before buying those concert tickets. “I just took off from the hotel the minute I heard Anthony Hamilton and Brian McKnight were performing.”

Both female visitors came unescorted to Aruba and the venue. Both solo travelers had fun music-tripping on the white sandy shores of Havanna Beach.

Hazel Heyer thanks the Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino, the primary host hotel for the international media and the production crew.

The Aruba Tourism Authority introduces us to the famous Aruba Ariba — This fun and fabulous cocktail is a tropical favorite among Aruba-devotees.

The Aruba Ariba uses coecoei, which is a centuries old Aruban liquor first made by the island’s Indian tribes. The liquor has a distinctive red color, derived from one of its prime ingredients — the sap from the “kukwisa” or agave plant, which is mixed with rum and cane sugar.

Read the complete article here:
http://www.caribbeantravelmag.com/article.jsp?ID=41771

by Kevin Brass, Travel Age West

During the CHA conference held in January, ATA Managing Director Myrna Jansen-Feliciano was interviewed by Kevin Brass of Travel Age West.

Read the story about the challenges Aruba is facing and the 200 million dollar investment in the island’s hotel industry:
http://www.travelagewest.com/articles.aspx?article=5028

'The Orbitz Insider Index' Unveils the Top Caribbean Island Vacation Spots and 'Staff Picks' for Winter 2006

CHICAGO, Jan. 9 /PRNewswire/ — Throw out that bulky sweater, run to the drug store for some SPF 30 sun tan lotion and break out your swim suit, because Orbitz (www.orbitz.com) — the faster, easier way to find the trip you want — today announced the launch of its 2006 Super Sand & Sea Sale and released the fifth edition of The Orbitz Insider Index, reporting on the top Caribbean island destinations for American sun seekers this winter!

The 2006 Super Sand & Sea Sale, supported by a newly developed Orbitz television advertisement with famed game show host, Wink Martindale, makes its easy for every customer to win at the travel game by finding that perfect Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii or Cruise vacation during the cold months ahead.

The Orbitz Insider Index is a monthly, in-depth look at travel trends from an industry insider's perspective. Whether looking for a quick sunny getaway or an extended break from the snow and short days, Orbitz has its finger on the pulse of the travel industry with insider information that will melt away the winter blues.

"This is the prime time for travel to warm weather destinations and Orbitz has negotiated special deals & exclusive offers to provide customers with tremendous value," said Heather Leisman, director of merchandizing for Orbitz. "Orbitz.com looked at advanced bookings to determine which Caribbean Islands destinations are the most popular for a tropical retreat. And with great deals in the Caribbean, Mexico and Hawaii, as well as fantastic cruise offers, now is the time to book."

Caribbean Island Hotspots

The Orbitz Insider Index reviews an aggregate mix of future bookings (flight and hotel) on Orbitz.com, indicating significant destination and departure trend information within the data. The most popular Caribbean island destinations according to The Orbitz Insider Index are:

The Orbitz Insider Index
Top 10 Caribbean Island Destinations
1. Puerto Rico
2. Bahamas
3. St. Thomas
4. Dominican Republic
5. Jamaica
6. Aruba
7. St. Maarten
8. British Virgin Islands
9. St. Croix
10. Barbados

Orbitz Staff Insider Picks — Caribbean Islands

In order to help travelers plan the perfect vacation, Orbitz released its "Staff Insider Picks" for Caribbean island destinations. This list of outstanding locations can have travelers gazing at colorful coral reefs or climbing giant waterfalls, depending upon their fancy.

"Best Scuba Island" — Turks & Caicos
"Best Beaches Island" — Barbados
"Best Gaming Island" — Aruba

If the ringing of slot machines and the allure of a big jackpot get your blood pumping fast, Aruba is the island destination for you! Aruba has a wide variety of casinos where visitors can play roulette, poker, craps, blackjack or Caribbean stud poker. Invented in Aruba in 1988, Caribbean stud poker, now played in many U.S. casinos, is a game all visitors to this island should be sure to try. If planning to visit Aruba with teenagers, take note, the legal gaming age on this island is eighteen.

"Best Natural Wonders Island" — Dominica
"Best Shopping Island" — St. Thomas
"Best Historic Island" — Puerto Rico
"Best Adventure Island" — Jamaica

SOURCE Orbitz.com

By Karen Bartlett for the Toronto Star

ARUBA — Arubans were in shock this fall when they awoke to find their centuries-old landmark gone — dissolved into the sea.

The Natural Bridge was a stunning 30.5-metre coral arch, which soared 7.6 metres above the sea. Lovers gravitated to the spot for romantic golden sunsets; daredevil body-boarders and surfers sought thrills against the wild waters and the sharp rocks below.

It was formed by the savage waves that smash against the coral cliffs of Aruba's wild side. For centuries, this raging surf has pounded, retreated and returned with foaming vengeance, chiselling out the mysterious caves and grottoes of Aruba's northeastern coast and creating one of its most photographed natural wonders.

But here's a secret that even many locals don't know: there are six more coral bridges on Aruba's wild windward side.

Read the complete story at:
www.thestar.com/NASApp/cs/ContentServer?pagename=thestar/Layout/Article_Type1&c=Article&cid=1135077485782&call_pageid=970599119419

By Ben Chapman for TravelAgent

The Caribbean island of Aruba is recovering from the much-publicized disappearance of an Alabama teenager,
Natalee Holloway, in the spring, island officials and agents say, citing strong occupancy and arrivals, and a renewed commitment
to visitor safety.

The hospitality community is deeply concerned with the Holloway case, says Myrna
Jansen, managing director for the Aruba
Tourism Authority. “Aruba is a very safe place,
and that’s why the case has been so widely
publicized,” she says. “We certainly hope it’s
solved very soon.”

Positive Signs

Jansen says Aruba’s reputation remains in-tact, noting that U.S. arrivals for June 2005
were up 9 percent over a year ago, and hotel
occupancy forecasts are also higher than
last year’s, with 79 percent island-wide occupancy estimated for October and 78 percent
predicted for November. “Aruba leads the
Caribbean in repeat visits, with 40 percent of
our visitors returning to the destination,” she
explains. “They know that Aruba is a safe island, and it’s great to have that support.”

The southern Caribbean destination continues to see a strong mix of families and
honeymoon travelers, especially in the high
season between Dec. 23 and Easter, when
room rates can go up as much as 30 percent, says Rob Smith, general manager at the
481-room Wyndham Aruba Resort Spa &
Casino. “Our guest probe is changing
slightly-it’s becoming demographically a little more upscale,” he observes, “We’re looking
at the first quarter of next year and it looks
great, even compared with 2005, which has
been an excellent year.”

Smith is president of the Aruba Hospitality
& Security Foundation, a four-year-old public/private partnership designed to increase
the visibility of law enforcement in tourist
zones. “We started the foundation because we
realize safety is one of our top selling points
here in Aruba,” he explains. “In the post 9-11
era we thought it was a good idea to increase
the visibility of the security force. The foundation currently employs 71 uniformed security
guards that work directly with police, patrolling
hotels, beaches, and other areas frequented
by visitors,” Smith says. Primary funding for the
$1.5 million-dollar program comes from the
Aruba Hotel and Tourism Association.

What Agents Say

Good air coverage, packages from wholesalers, and a diverse set of island attractions
product are making for a good year in Aruba,
agents say, despite the substantial publicity
around Holloway’s disappearance.

Direct flights to Aruba, like those offered by
US Airways from Philadelphia, are major selling points for the destination, says Donna
Stoop, owner of Jade Travel Services in Aston,
PA. “I’m continuing to see a lot of interest in
Aruba, because of the variety there. It has
beautiful beaches, excellent diving, and
Vegas-style casinos,” she explains.

Jamie McCabe, owner of See Life Travel in
Ellington, CT, says that packages from the
Northeast to Aruba help make the destination
especially attractive, noting that Apple Vacations, GMV Vacations and TNT Vacations all
offer Aruba packages, some with direct charter
flights from the East Coast. In McCabe’s primary markets in the Northeast, the perception
of Aruba is one of safety, she says. “In my opinion, Aruba is one of the safest destinations in
the Caribbean. I’m not hearing any concerns
about safety from my clients.”

But the Holloway disappearance
has changed things for at least one
travel agency in the teen’s hometown. Cheryl Floyd, leisure specialist
at All Seasons Travel, in Birmingham, AL, says “Certainly Natalee’s
disappearance has impacted us.
Before this summer, we sold a significant amount of Aruba business,
but I don’t think we’ve sold a single
Aruba package since then.

“People are staying away out of
respect to the family, but also because there is a certain amount of fear involved,” she says. “I hope
things get back to normal, because Aruba is such a lovely island, and the people there really
depend on tourism.”