Aruba

They say in Aruba, "the sun is always shining."

For the record, Aruba has the least amount of rainfall in the Southern Caribbean.  Its location outside the hurricane belt is an indicator of great weather throughout the year. 

Aruba is a short trip from the U.S. I've had the chance to see this place twice with 2 different sets of friends.

My first trip was in June 2016 with my 2 close friends and classmates, John and Jenny.  This was our first trip together.  We had so much fun. 

They call Aruba "One Happy Island."  There's no doubt about it.  This island has a lot of things to offer.  Visitors of all ages won't run out of fun things to do, from water sports to Butterfly Farm, Animal Garden, and National Park.  But you can simply do nothing at all. 

Waters sports is not my thing.  It's actually one of my fears.  John and Jenny are experts on this.  They have the adventure for it. I absolutely don't.  So, they convinced me to go with them and ride this water boat. I was afraid, but I tried.  Unfortunately, not for long.  As soon as we started moving, I couldn't help it.  The fear of drowning, as if I am going to die, is what I always feel. So, let me get off from this thing, please!  Nevertheless, we needed to have a photo to prove that at least I had the chance to ride on it.  

It's a "happy place" to drink and be merry.  That's what we did—cheers to our friendship and to more adventures in the years to come. 

My second visit was in September 2016 with Crystal and Mauricia.  Crystal needed company for her birthday, so I joined her.  

Aruba is a small island.  This time, I didn't leave this place without seeing the lighthouse.  It is called "Aruba California Lighthouse" and was named after the S.S. California, a ship that sank and was wrecked near the shore in 1891.  It is now a landmark for tourism.  

This "happy island" has left me with happy memories.  I always say, "I love Aruba."