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| Along with its many other flattering titles, Aruba could be called the land of discovery, for there is so much to see and do here. The island's culture, history, natural wonders and breathtaking scenery will keep you busy for days. |
 Your explorations will likely begin in Oranjestad, the old Dutch capital city where tall, multicolored houses combine carved wooden doors and traditional Dutch tiles with sloping Aruban-style roofs. History and the modern world meet in this waterfront city. Shopping is an important pastime, ranging from the lively fishermen selling their wares right off the wharf to modern shopping centers. Amidst the bustle is Fort Oranje, a 17th century keep worth seeing for its stone courtyard, turrets and canons, all still intact. |
 Hidden away in the outer reaches of Arikok National Park are two interesting cave complexes, the Guadirikiri Caves. Visitors may joke that it's the perfect place to take someone special, since the damp, dark and otherworldly setting practically ensures you'll want to stick close together. Guadirikiri even has an ancient legend to prime your romantic spirit. The headstrong daughter of an Indian chief and her unsuitable suitor are said to have been sealed within the cave and left to perish, but defiant even as spirits and strengthened by love, the pair burst through the roof of the caves and ascended to heaven together. |
 Aruba's most famous landmark is the Natural Bridge. Located on the east coast of the island, this geological wonder rises 25 feet above the sea and stretches more than 100 feet in length. It took centuries for the endless pounding of the surf to carve it out of solid coral. |
 For a taste of more recent history, visit the crumbling ruins of an abandoned gold mine that serves as a reminder of Aruba's rich and colorful past. Nearby, halfway down the northern coast of the island, is a deserted pirate castle. This ghostly stone building is the stuff of local legend. Some say it dates back to Alonso de Ojeda, the first European to set foot on Aruba in 1499. |
| For a remarkable panoramic view from the center of the island, climb Mount Hooiberg. Its peak is 500 feet above sea level, giving clear views of both coastlines at the same time. Don't worry if you forgot your ropes and climbing equipment, Hooiberg has a stairway going all the way to the top. |
| At Bubali Bird Sanctuary, more than 80 species of birds inhabit two man-made, connected lakes. Species include egrets, cormorants, skimmers, herons, terns, coots, gulls and ducks. It's a bird watcher's delight! |
| The second largest city in Aruba, San Nicholas is a modern development that arose with the island's oil boom last century. The area has a typical British Caribbean heritage. It is the birthplace of Aruba's Carnival held every February, which is the third largest tropical carnival after those in Brazil and Trinidad. |
| Northwest of area known as Spanish Lagoon, Balashi offers the preserved ruins of an old gold smelting plant that was used during the 19th century gold rush. Today, this area hosts Aruba's desalination plant where all drinking water is produced. |
 An interesting historical and culinary site, this windmill dating back to 1804 was originally constructed in Holland and then shipped to Aruba piece by piece and reconstructed in 1960. It now features a moderately priced restaurant that specializes in continental dining. |
| De Palm Island is just a five-minute ferry ride from the mainland. It's a great spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, with abundant coral formations and colorful blue Parrot Fish. Hammocks, food and beverage facilities, games, a playground for children and scuba and snorkeling (including equipment) are all available. |
| Getting lost in Aruba really isn't an option, thanks to the unique natural wonder of the divi-divi trees. Due to the constant tradewinds, these trees virtually all lean in the same direction, creating a near infallible pointer indicating southwest, which is the hotel region of the island. |
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