Breitling pays homage to classic cars of the 1960s
14 October 2021
Firetree unwraps its latest chocolate temptations
11 January 2022Lesser Antilles pearl
It might not be the first name that trips off the tongue when the Caribbean comes to mind but Aruba could really be the secret pearl in the luscious oyster of desirable destinations
S ure, the Bahamas, the Cayman Islands, Martinique or Dominica are well-known and lovely places to visit but, to be perfectly frank, the world and his dog either have been or actually are there. Certainly gorgeous but damned by their familiarity.
In these post-COVID times (we hope), travel needs to become ‘special’ again and here at Halcyon Lifestyle we’re on the lookout for those little gems that have a certain je ne sais quoi about them. It’s not necessarily the most expensive destination that floats our boat, but, while price is important, a rare commingling of luxury, service, exclusivity and ‘newness’ is higher up our must-have list. Which brings us to Aruba.
Nestling just 18 miles north of the Venezuelan peninsula, this constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands is only 20 miles across at its largest point. Year-round sunny skies married to a dry climate mean you only need to pack the smallest of suitcases to take a break here. The heaviest item in your accoutrements will be the bottle of sunscreen. At the end of this article we’ll showcase five beautiful hotels for your delectation and we look forward to your feedback (and your thanks for the recommendation!) when you’ve been.
Getting to Aruba is straightforward. Never forget that it’s an island so direct flights aren’t going to be the norm but there is a weekly direct flight from Gatwick (if you’re a UK-based reader). KLM have more frequent flights connecting through Amsterdam or the USA which makes travelling flexible.
However, if you’re one of those lucky individuals who has their own private jet, there are many more options. If this sounds like you, then you should reach out the Registry of Aruba who are the pinnacle player in the aviation industry. Since its inception in 1995 the Registry of Aruba has been passionate about going the extra mile for its clients to the extent that the personal touch includes direct contact with the Registry’s owner, Jorge Colindres, if circumstance dictates.
‘This is the true definition of support,’ says Colindres. ‘It’s about being there, no matter what.’ The Registry’s unique business model means that their customers are always dealing with people not a bureaucracy. There is far less red tape and the office is always open.
Year-round sunny skies married to a dry climate mean you only need to pack the smallest of suitcases
Aruba has always been one to think outside of the box and, as an example of the personal touch, in January of 2021, Alexandria Colindres, daughter of Jorge, having worked for the Registry of Aruba for eight years, was promoted to become CEO. Alex is one of the small but growing number of women assuming executive roles in aviation and she recognises the influence and support she has been given by other women in the industry as mentors and colleagues guiding her path to success.
With a master’s degree in the Arts and formerly responsible for managing Spinello Projects, one of Miami’s most reputable art galleries, she now oversees the daily operations of The Registry of Aruba while fostering relationships with clients and developing leads for new clients across continents.
Under her daily guidance the Registry is moving forward, embarking on a mission to break ground in new markets. Today, aircraft registration in Aruba typically takes just 24-48 hours. Once complete, aircraft may legally fly with a certified true copy of the original certificates, which are valid for a maximum of fifteen days from the date of issue. Meanwhile, the original certificate is sent by courier.
Hongkong Jet, operating under Sonic Air, announced in April of 2019 that they were to open a new commercial operation in Aruba. The ceremony for presenting the Air Operating Certificate to Hongkong Jet’s CEO, Alex Jiao, took place at ABACE 2019. Operations commenced with their state-of-the-art, ultra-luxurious B-787 Dreamliner, registered under P4-787.
Alex[andria Colindres] is one of the small but growing number of women assuming executive roles in aviation
Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner hosts up to forty passengers in an exclusive setting and is the first 787 BBJ – it is used by several governments, royal families and several heads of state. It is normally crewed by four pilots for any long missions and has a global range of 8,100nm.
It took renowned French aircraft interior designer Jacques Pierrejean and the aircraft completion centre more than two and a half years to create such a masterpiece blend of aerospace and craftsmanship. The interior is fitted out to the highest specifications and includes a luxury master bedroom suite, bathroom, living room and a large dining room.
Previously, in August of 2015, Crystal AirCruises. Operated by Comlux Aruba, registered the world’s first commercial VVIP casino-configured 777-200 LR. Crystal have served the travelling public for over three decades and have spent 28 of those years topping Conde Nast Traveler's Reader’s Choice Awards.
It was a logical choice to have their own plane and make it available for global explorations.
Aruba is an OECD white-listed, tax-efficient jurisdiction with an outstanding reputation that offers flexibility and value-added services.
These are enhanced through the introduction of the Cape Town Convention and the registration of an aircraft through the election of domicile. Registration through domicile allows for owners and operators to register their aircraft in Aruba utilising their foreign SPV; keeping their existing company structure.
With their corporate offices based in Miami, dubbed ‘The capital of the Americas’, the organisation is nestled in a strategic global hub for business, commerce and trade and harbours the next generation of pioneers for the aviation industry, making it an ideal partner for establishing a lasting aircraft registry partner.
It is clear that Aruba is working towards securing its economic future and improvements are being made upon what has already been achieved. Once COVID is fully behind us they will be perfectly placed to welcome the world to their shores.
Just don’t shout about the destination too loudly – you’ll want to retain its specialness for yourself.
Words: TG
The interior is fitted out to the highest specifications and includes a luxury master bedroom suite, bathroom, living room and a large dining room
Aruba
Where to stay; where to play
Bucuti & Tara Beach Resorts
Bucuti & Tara Beach Resorts is an internationally recognised and awarded resort focussing on environmental awareness and eco-tourism. The beauty of one of Aruba’s most precious breaches has been well preserved by the team at the well-loved and adult-only boutique hotel.
From the moment you step into the understated elegance of the open-air lobby you can smell the promise of peace love and happiness. The rustling of the leaves on the indigenous trees married to the soft white sane underfoot leads you into the temptation that is the clear blue water just steps from the eco-friendly hypoallergenic suites.
Now 25 years old this little Caribbean gem has big plans and is testament to the adage that good things come in small packages.
It’s as if tempus dare not fugit here – it’s love at first stay.
Ritz-Carlton
The archetypal images of fishermen’s huts, bright windsurfing boards and sails frame the outlook over colourful fishing boats in the limestone bays alongside the beaches of the northwest coast of Aruba. Only the Ritz-Carlton of all the hotels on the island is able to provide these views.
Nestled into one of the most popular beaches of Aruba, the Ritz-Carlton manages to create an intimate secluded environment. Its location allows leisure-seekers the opportunity to benefit from both worlds: the serenity of the Malmok neighbourhood and the vibrancy of Palm Beach.
The rooms, the amenities and the service are all five-star. Tie this in with the spectacular ocean views and captivating natural surroundings and the Ritz-Carlton lets guests rest assured that they’re in for an elevating, luxurious experience showcasing the best of authentic laid-back island life.
Renaissance Wind Creek
Although the island's center of activities and nightlife is wrapped around this Four Diamond resort, consisting of the adult-exclusive Marina Hotel and the family-friendly Ocean Suites, the Renaissance Wind Creek is a destination unto itself.
With an ultra-sophisticated spa, an upscale Renaissance Mall and the entertaining Renaissance Marketplace, a collection of bars, cafes and restaurants to fit any occasion, movie theatres, two of the most popular casinos, a private island for guests only and a Navigator & Tour Desk (not concierge) for on- and off-property discoveries, the place to fully recuperate would be in the comfortable, spacious and elegantly decorated suites.
And after a good night's rest, there is an island and one hip and stylish stay to explore... one discovery at a time.
Hilton Aruba
After a day spent exploring Aruba's marine life, hiking through National Park Arikok or just savouring the sun and some Piña Coladas, guests can easily wind down at the Hilton Aruba. The rooms and suites have all the comfort and facilities to accommodate the most demanding families, couples or groups.
If a more intense relaxation is needed, the Larimar Spa has a selection of the most soothing massages and revitalising skin care treatments based on indigenous island ingredients. While kids have their own club room, parents can stroll through the exotic gardens and plan an exquisite dinner at Four Diamond restaurant, Sunset Grille.
The Plaza Club floors offer guests an exclusive resort experience, including exceptional accommodations, access to a personal concierge and a hospitality lounge that provides many complementary options, like a complete continental breakfast or afternoon tea. Hilton Aruba is a resort, casino, spa and much more.
Amsterdam Manor
Amsterdam Manor is an intimate beach resort that fits right in with its magnificent oceanfront location. Offering a variety of accommodations, including fully equipped rooms, superior studios and coveted suites overlooking one of the best beaches in the world, the Dutch Colonial building is a unique alternative to Aruba's large luxury hotels.
Despite its diminutive size, though, it's big on friendly, personalised service, and outstanding facilities and amenities. Two on-site restaurants serve a fusion of local flavours and daily variations on favourite international dishes, while the fine dining experience is enhanced by breath-taking sunsets and the tropical breeze.
For guests who want more than suntanning and swimming, the resort offers amazing activities like barbecue buffets, dance shows and theme nights. There's also a bus stop in front of the resort for independent trips to downtown Oranjestad.