Last week Ronella Tjin Asjoe-Croes, CEO of the Aruba Tourism Authority (ATA) officially launched the newest guest amenity of Boardwalk Small Hotel, Aruba’s Treasure Box. By means of a ‘treasure hunt’ Tjin Asjoe-Croes discovered Aruba’s Treasure Box on the hotels’ lush grounds. Each box contains 10 small cards with information and directions to must-visit places, hotspots and hidden gems such as lesser known local eateries and beautiful viewpoints on the island and is offered to all guests as an in-room amenity. Aruba’s Treasure Box is supported by Boardwalk’s online concierge providing extensive island information, both pre-arrival as well as on island.
Boardwalk-owner Kimberly Rooijakkers elaborated on the idea for Aruba’s Treasure Box. “Arubans are well aware that hospitality and friendliness set our island apart from other destinations, but sometimes tend to forget what treasures and beautiful spots Aruba has to offer. Even tourists that have been coming to the island for many years, tend to return to old time favorites without discovering new spots on the island. Boardwalk Small Hotel approaches Aruba as a treasure box full of hidden gems. We want to assist our guests in discovering the island in a new and unique way. Basically it already starts right here on property, since Boardwalk is situated on a historic coco-plantation”.
When returning from their discovery trip guests are also asked what they liked best or what other types of hidden gems they found themselves. This way the Treasure Box becomes a lively, fluid and ever-evolving process, offering unique island experiences. Locals can actively participate by directing tourists to their own favorite hangouts and less traveled spots so they can experience an authentic ‘taste’ of Aruba.
Ronella Tjin Asjoe-Croes was very impressed with this new approach inviting guests to discover Aruba’s best places. “This is a fresh and innovative way to point out that Aruba has so much more to offer besides sun, sand and our beautiful beaches. Aruba can be very proud of its heritage, nature, culture and special features and ATA therefore fully embraces the Aruba Treasure Box initiative.” ATA’s CEO also took a tour of the Boardwalk and its renovated casitas and found it “a great product, well-kept and run by a strong team”.
In addition to Aruba’s Treasure Box, all of Boardwalk Small Hotel’s 14 casitas are equipped with a hammock and BBQ so that guests can experience the local life on their private patio as well. Complimentary maps, folded chairs, snorkel gear and coolers are provided to encourage guests to discover Aruba on their own.
More information can be found on www.boardwalkaruba.com
