Hannah Epstein

Boston , MA

Aruba Travel Agent Expert

Touching down in Aruba is like landing in a tropical dream. The moment I stepped off the plane, the warm Caribbean breeze welcomed me, carrying the scent of saltwater and the promise of a relaxing getaway. The island's cheerful vibe was evident at the airport, where even the customs officials seemed to share the island's "One Happy Island" motto. After a quick check-in at my beachfront resort in Palm Beach, I decided to explore a bit before sunset.Palm Beach is the heart of Aruba’s tourism, and it’s easy to see why. The soft, white sands and calm, turquoise waters create the perfect setting for a relaxing beach day. The beach is dotted with thatched palapas, where visitors lounged under the shade, sipping tropical cocktails. I couldn’t resist joining in—my first piña colada in Aruba, with the waves lapping at my feet, was the perfect way to kick off the vacation.Day 2: Exploring the Island On the second day, I was eager to explore more of the island beyond the beach. I rented a jeep and headed towards Arikok National Park, a rugged and wild part of Aruba that feels a world away from the resort-lined beaches. The park is a striking contrast to the typical Caribbean landscape, with cacti-strewn hills, limestone cliffs, and ancient caves. I hiked to the top of one of the hills for a panoramic view of the island, where the contrast between the lush green of the park and the deep blue of the ocean was breathtaking.One of the highlights of the day was visiting the Natural Pool, a hidden gem within the park. The journey there was a bit of an adventure—navigating rough, rocky roads—but the reward was worth it. The pool is a serene, protected area surrounded by volcanic rocks, where the ocean waves crash in, creating a unique swimming experience. I spent hours there, enjoying the refreshing water and the stunning surroundings.Day 3: Snorkeling and Sunset Sail No trip to Aruba would be complete without experiencing its underwater world. On my third day, I joined a snorkeling tour that took us to some of the island's best spots. The first stop was the Antilla shipwreck, a World War II German freighter that now serves as an artificial reef. Snorkeling around the wreck was surreal; schools of colorful fish darted in and out of the corroded metal, and the coral growing on the ship created a vibrant underwater landscape.In the afternoon, I took a sunset sail along the coast. As the catamaran glided over the calm waters, the sun began to dip below the horizon, painting the sky with shades of orange, pink, and purple. The crew played lively music, and everyone on board was in high spirits, dancing and enjoying the moment. The sunset in Aruba is something special—the way the light plays off the water and the sky is magical. As the sun finally disappeared, the entire boat erupted in applause, celebrating the beauty of the island.Day 4: Relaxation and Local Flavors After a few days of adventure, I decided to slow things down on my last full day in Aruba. I spent the morning at Eagle Beach, often ranked as one of the best beaches in the world. It was easy to see why—the wide stretch of soft sand and the tranquil waters were the epitome of paradise. I rented a beach chair, indulged in a good book, and let the hours slip away under the Caribbean sun.For lunch, I headed to a local eatery in Oranjestad, Aruba’s colorful capital. The food scene in Aruba is a delightful mix of Caribbean, Latin American, and Dutch influences. I tried keshi yena, a traditional Aruban dish made of melted cheese stuffed with spiced meat, accompanied by plantains and local beer. The flavors were rich and comforting, a true taste of the island’s culture.Day 5: Farewell, Aruba Leaving Aruba was bittersweet. As I packed my bags and said goodbye to the resort staff, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of longing. Aruba had captivated me with its natural beauty, warm hospitality, and vibrant culture. The memories of snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, exploring rugged landscapes, and watching breathtaking sunsets would stay with me long after my tan had faded.As the plane lifted off, I looked out the window for one last glimpse of the island. The turquoise waters shimmered in the sunlight, and I made a silent promise to return one day. Aruba had given me the perfect escape—a blend of relaxation and adventure that left me feeling refreshed and inspired. Until next time, Aruba.

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China Travel Agent Expert

A trip to China offers an exploration of one of the world’s oldest civilizations, where ancient history, modern innovation, and diverse landscapes come together to create an extraordinary travel experience.Day 1-3: Beijing. Start your journey in Beijing, the capital of China and a city steeped in history. Begin with a visit to the Forbidden City, the vast imperial palace that served as the home of Chinese emperors for nearly 500 years. Adjacent to the Forbidden City is Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world and a site of great historical significance.Make your way to the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for good harvests, and then visit the Summer Palace, a stunning example of classical Chinese garden design. No trip to Beijing is complete without a visit to the Great Wall of China. Head to the Mutianyu or Badaling sections of the wall for a hike along this ancient wonder, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.Day 4-5: Xi'an. Fly or take a high-speed train to Xi'an, the starting point of the ancient Silk Road and home to the world-famous Terracotta Army. These life-sized statues were buried with the first Emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang, to protect him in the afterlife. Explore the excavation site and museum, marveling at the thousands of unique soldiers, horses, and chariots. In Xi'an, also visit the Ancient City Wall, one of the best-preserved city walls in China. You can walk or bike along the top of the wall for panoramic views of the city. Don’t miss the Muslim Quarter, a vibrant area filled with food stalls, shops, and the Great Mosque, an intriguing blend of Islamic and Chinese architecture. Day 6-8: Guilin and Yangshuo. Next, head south to Guilin, known for its stunning karst landscape. Take a leisurely cruise down the Li River to Yangshuo, passing by picturesque limestone peaks, verdant bamboo groves, and quaint villages. This region is a photographer’s dream, with scenery that has inspired Chinese artists and poets for centuries. In Yangshuo, rent a bike to explore the countryside, visit local markets, and experience the laid-back charm of this small town. Consider taking a bamboo raft ride on the Yulong River or hiking up Moon Hill for panoramic views of the karst formations. Day 9-11: Chengdu. Fly to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province and the home of the famous Giant Pandas. Spend a morning at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where you can see these adorable animals up close and learn about conservation efforts.Chengdu is also known for its spicy cuisine, particularly the world-renowned Sichuan hotpot. Don’t miss the opportunity to dine at a local hotpot restaurant, where you can cook a variety of meats and vegetables in a bubbling, flavorful broth. While in Chengdu, visit the Jinli Ancient Street to shop for souvenirs and enjoy traditional performances. Day 12-14: Shanghai. Conclude your trip in Shanghai, China’s most modern and dynamic city. Start with a visit to the Bund, a waterfront promenade lined with colonial-era buildings offering stunning views of the futuristic Pudong skyline across the Huangpu River. Explore the Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden with pavilions, rockeries, and tranquil ponds, and then wander through the nearby Old Town. Head to Nanjing Road for some shopping, and in the evening, take in the dazzling city lights with a Huangpu River cruise. For a deeper dive into Shanghai’s history, visit the Shanghai Museum, which houses an extensive collection of ancient Chinese art, and the French Concession, a charming area known for its tree-lined streets, cafes, and art deco buildings. China is a vast and diverse country, offering an array of experiences that range from the ancient to the ultra-modern. Whether you’re walking along the Great Wall, gazing at the Terracotta Army, cruising down the Li River, or enjoying the vibrant energy of Shanghai, a trip to China is sure to leave you with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for this incredible nation.

My Reviews

Memorable Trip

My group had an amazing trip. From the very start Hannah was always very responsive and pleasant. She was able to take everyone’s preferences into account and make them a reality.

By James from Santa Rosa, CA
Traveled to Italy ~ Europe

I would recommend this agent to my family and friends