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.

Email me Call Me

Italy Travel Agent Expert

Italy is a country rich in history, culture, art, and stunning landscapes, making it one of the most desirable travel destinations in the world. Whether you're interested in exploring ancient ruins, savoring world-class cuisine, wandering through art-filled cities, or relaxing on beautiful coastlines, Italy has something to offer every type of traveler. Rome the capital city is a living museum, with iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Pantheon, and the Vatican City, home to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. Rome’s mix of ancient history and vibrant modern life is unparalleled.Florence: The cradle of the Renaissance, Florence is famous for its art and architecture. Visit the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, the Ponte Vecchio, and Michelangelo’s David. The city’s rich history and stunning vistas are unforgettable. Venice known as the "City of Canals," is a unique and romantic destination. Explore the Grand Canal by gondola, visit St. Mark’s Basilica, and get lost in the maze of narrow streets and bridges. Italian cuisine varies greatly by region. Enjoy pizza in Naples, pasta in Bologna, truffles in Piedmont, and seafood along the Amalfi Coast. Italy is also home to some of the world’s finest wines. Visit vineyards in Tuscany, sample Prosecco in Veneto, and enjoy robust reds in the Chianti region. From rustic trattorias to Michelin-starred restaurants, Italy offers dining experiences that cater to every taste and budget. Don’t miss out on traditional Italian meals like a multi-course dinner (antipasto, primo, secondo, dolce) and an aperitivo before dinner. There are also so many breathtaking landscapes. Tuscany has rolling hills, cypress trees, vineyards, and medieval towns define the Tuscan landscape. Explore charming villages like San Gimignano, Siena, and Montepulciano, and enjoy the region’s famous wines and cuisine. The Amalfi Coast has its stunning coastline known for its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello. It’s a perfect place for scenic drives, hiking, and relaxation by the sea. Enjoy Northern Italy’s lakes, such as Lake Como, Lake Garda, and Lake Maggiore, offer serene beauty and luxurious villas. These lakes are ideal for boating, hiking, and enjoying the scenic surroundings. Italy is the birthplace of the Renaissance, and cities like Florence, Rome, and Venice are home to masterpieces by artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, and Botticelli. Italy’s architectural heritage is vast, from the ancient ruins of Rome to the Gothic cathedrals of Milan and Florence, the Byzantine architecture of Venice, and the Baroque splendor of Turin. Italy also embraces modern art and design, with contemporary galleries and museums in cities like Milan, which is also a global fashion capital. Visit Milan, Italy’s financial and fashion hub. Milan is known for its high-end shopping, modern art, and the stunning Gothic Duomo. Naples a vibrant city with a unique character, offers a mix of history, culture, and cuisine. Visit the historic center, explore the underground catacombs, and use it as a base to explore nearby Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast.

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