The Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino is celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Aruba Ariba cocktail, created at the resort on July 1st, 1963. Bartender Juan “Jocky” Tromp, invented this unique beverage for a special occasion working at the Aruba Caribbean Hotel, and his exceptional drink recipe stood out and gained recognition and distinction for its special qualities throughout the years.
The recipe? The original one, created on that day, 60 years ago, included vodka and white rum, laced with Crème de Banana, flavored with Grand Marnier, pineapple juice, orange juice, lemon juice, and grenadine syrup.
It was originally named the “Ariba Aruba”, and Tromp still treasures his original scribbles, on a piece of napkin paper with all ingredients listed.
Today, the drink is most commonly known as the “Aruba Ariba.” It is the island’s signature vacation cocktail, celebrated at the resort each year, on the day it was born.
To mark this exceptional milestone, the resort planned a series of guest and Team Member activities highlighting the cocktail’s heritage throughout the resort.
Team Members attended planned sessions before the celebration month, to delve into the rich history of the Aruba Ariba, understand its significance to the resort, and even learn the art of crafting the delightful concoction! In addition, Team Members are wearing special Aruba Ariba shirts every Saturday during the month of July to commemorate 60 years of the original Aruba Ariba.
The marketing department will continuously produce captivating videos of Team Members during the celebration month. The exciting videos will be shown on Hilton Aruba’s social media platforms, engaging the online community with the spirit of the Aruba Ariba festivities.
Every Saturday during the month of July, arriving guests will be greeted in the lobby with a complimentary Aruba Ariba to experience the famous original cocktail accompanied by live steel band music. To make it extra special Juan “Jocky” Tromp was also present on the first Saturday of the month to celebrate with the team.
The Food & Beverage department, spearheaded by the Culinary Brigade responded to the challenge to create befitting Aruba Ariba specialties. The team created scrumptious Aruba Ariba infused Macaroons, available for guests as an amenity during the month of July upon arrival. Partnering with Planet Gelato, guests will enjoy a special treat served around the pool area each Saturday in July with a specially created Aruba Ariba sorbet.
At the Sunset Grille Restaurant, guests were treated to an amuse-bouche inspired by the delightful flavors of the Aruba Ariba recipe, at the onset of the festivities on July 1st. The special culinary delight was designed to enhance guests’ dining experience, celebrating the historic day.
During the Month of July, Mira Solo Bar is serving the cocktail as originally prepared by “Jocky”, as well as three additional thrilling new variations; the Aruba-Tini, Aruba Love, and Aruba Sunset Breeze. These exciting beverages are available for purchase by guests. They were created exclusively in honor of the iconic cocktail’s anniversary.
View more information on Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino.
