We have seen it emerging over the last few years, from the construction site, on Palm Beach. We watched it grow. Yes, it has been a while, but the day has come. The much-awaited Westerly wing, at the Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino, made its debut, on a Wednesday evening, against the backdrop of a spectacular technicolor sunset.

The new Westerly wing features 161 oversized guest rooms and suites with balconies, including ocean front accommodations with expansive terraces and select adults-only swim-up options. Each space is designed to showcase sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea while delivering a sense of comfort and sophistication.

The new addition was meant to reflect the original Morris Lapidus design of the then Aruba Caribbean Hotel, opened in 1959. The Westerly’s interiors convey a contemporary interpretation of that mid-century design, blending natural materials, warm textures, and locally inspired details. Seamless indoor-outdoor living, custom-made furnishings, and curated in-room amenities create a residential feel that invites guests to fully unwind.

The crown jewel of the Westerly, the new roof top terrace, Terrace on 10, offers a truly unique adults-only experience with panoramic ocean views, locally inspired cuisine, and expertly crafted cocktails. The dynamic space transitions from tranquil daytime relaxation – with wellness programming such as Pilates and guided breathwork – to vibrant evening energy with live entertainment and social experiences.

Guests of the Westerly, enjoy full access to 15 acres of gardens and pools, as well as full access to renowned Aruba Hilton Caribbean Resort & Casino dining, wellness, and entertainment offerings, while maintaining a distinct sense of exclusivity and retreat.

A sense of anticipation hung in the air when we got to the star-studded opening party, with the entire Hilton top corporate echelon in attendance. They had to be booked six months in advance, so their planets align to meet in Aruba for May 27th, 2026, for the opening party.

I came early, found parking, and strolled up the ramp. This would be my fourth major hotel renovation/opening, at that same resort, and each ushered in a new era of improved and updated hospitality.  The reception line in the lobby included bellmen, salespeople, spa staffers and many familiar faces. They kissed, they hugged — we refreshed our hands with the moist towels offered. The lovely students of Empower Art Academy of Dance twirled on tippy-toes along the way from the lobby to the garden, adding a fresh charming welcome note.

Armed with a Westerly Cooler, I found a great spot on the pool deck to watch the official ceremony, unfolding on an impressive stage, set at the entrance to the Westerly wing. Compliments to Elite Entertainment for a striking framing of the event.

Master of Ceremony Edjean Semeleer, resort manager Jerome Luciani and Chris Nassetta, President, and CEO of Hilton, warmed up the audience for the twin addresses by The Aruba Growth Fund heroes of the day, Milton Berlinski and Rene Kan, presenting two excellent overviews of their thoughts and feelings for the day. While Milton’s speech was cerebral, didactic, and well researched, Rene’s came from the heart, peppered with humorous construction tips, lessons learned at childhood, and gratitude for unsung heroes.

According to Berlinski, the new Westerly wing set out to model the future of hospitality in Aruba. The official resort press release spelled it out. The new era presents an elevated arrival experience, including private check-in and dedicated concierge service, along with priority access to premium resort offerings such as eforea spa treatments and enhanced beach and pool experiences. In-room touches include wellness-focused amenities, introducing the Best Rest Bar, with sleep masks, calming pillow spray, locally inspired products, and personalized offerings designed to reflect the spirit of Aruba.

Berlinski went on to explain that the Aruba Caribbean Hotel was built at the time as the island’s first true luxury resort, designed specifically to kickstart that new tourism industry. And in the period that followed its festive opening, the hotel attracted a glittering jet-set, and had an enormous cultural impact on the island, as Aruba and the hotel became a magnet for celebrities and royalty.

It has been an iconic property since opening day.

Berlinski went on to share that in 2015, the property was acquired by Goldman Sachs in partnership with the Aruba Growth Fund/Reverence Capital’s Investors and rebranded as the Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino. Following a major renovation in 2016, the resort was modernized yet retained its original mid-century design and historical character. As Reverence Capital, bought out Goldman Sachs, in 2022, plans for the Westerly wing were hatched, taking the Grand Dame of Palm Beach, from classic hospitality to modernist tropical glamour, retaining its lively, social, open and breezy character, integrated into life on Palm Beach. With the addition of the Westerly wing, the property remains a foundational resort that would continue to shape Aruba as a luxury tourism destination, in the years to come. This resort, Berlinsky concluded, could not run without its local Arubans who have made it a special place, and Aruba would not be the same successful island without the hotel.

The address, filled with historical notes and resort positioning remarks, was an education, for those who forgot and those who never knew.

Kan was the last speaker. And while he professes to dislike public speaking, he is a master at that.

In his address, he shared that the evening was not just about opening a building, but about concluding the journey that tested all involved.

He warmly praised the kind tenacity of his partner, Berlinski, who pushed, fought, and never gave up. He also thanked his partner of forty years Justus Martens, for seeing things from a different perspective, introducing balance — being the yang, the lighter presence for his yin, in the frustrating moments.

Kan was proud to say that with local investors, the Aruba Growth Fund created the Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino over the last ten years, and it is a source of genuine pride as the resort has become one of the top-performing and most respected hotels in the Hilton portfolio.

Kan went on to talk about the resort construction with humor and empathy. He entertained party guests with useful tip for the eventuality that they ever attempted to undertake a project, in Aruba. He joked about architectural plans that never materialize. He indicated he had black hair at the onset and expressed heartfelt appreciation to Hendrick Croes who kept seven companies in sync during construction. He lauded Lennart de Bie, the backbone of the hotel operation, who kept all systems going, and guests happy. Lennart outlasted a couple of general managers, leading his team with strength, consistency, and professionalism, which speaks volumes about his kind tenacity. Kan thanked neighboring hotels and the government officials, as soft introduction to his core message, and I would like to quote it in his own words:

As tourism continuous to grow, he said, Aruba must continue to grow the right way, with quality, with respect, and with balance. We learned as locals to respect our visitors, because tourism is the foundation of our economy and our livelihood. And if we want Aruba to remain special, we must continue protecting the quality of the experience—for our guests, for our people, and for future generations. So, we should respect what this sector has done for Aruba, and what it continues to do for our economy and our people. But at the same time—we must elevate this sector. The focus should be on quality—not quantity.

Kan concluded his speech stating that Aruba’s most luxurious hospitality tower, is the first resort in Aruba to finance both existing property and the Westerly wing entirely through local financing. That is an important milestone. Because it reflects Aruban ownership, and long-term faith in Aruba, its people, and its future.

 As the ribbon was cut, and the Westerly wing announced open, guests were free to roam the pool deck and visit the different food stations loaded with freshly rolled sushi, seafood and ceviche, lamb chops, hand carved roast beef — it was a culinary tour de force.

The party featured many creative touches, hand painted fans by two local artists, a cigar roller, a fantastic full-size band with much admired Chris Cross, candle lit pool floats, and very handsome and well-groomed uniformed and ununiformed staffers.

Aruba’s A-Listers enjoyed a spectacular firework show at 8:45, and endless trays of bonbon for dessert — I took three to go.

We wish the Westerly many years of success ahead!  

From the press release: Guests can enjoy eight dining options, from casual beachside snacks to lobby libations and signature beachfront dining at the brand-new Shore Club restaurant, located just steps away from Aruba’s iconic Palm Beach offering an elevated menu of internationally inspired cuisine and signature cocktails. Just steps from the sand, the spacious sun deck has been thoughtfully designed with stylish touches that add a casual chic vibe. Perched above the restaurant, Shore Club’s exclusive rooftop boasts panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and the sparkling white sands of Palm Beach. Additional options include Sunset Bar, where the original “Aruba Ariba” cocktail was created, Sunset Grille, a prime steakhouse and the resort’s signature restaurant.

Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & The Westerly is also the only resort on the island to offer three distinct rooftop experiences, including Terrace on 10 at The Westerly, Shore Club’s sunset rooftop, and the iconic Palm Beach Club. Groups can take advantage of over 60,000 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor event space, including the 8,100 sq. ft. Grand Morris Lapidus Ballroom – designed to serve as the background for iconic events and gatherings Hilton Hotels & Resorts is known for. Guests can also try their luck at the Las Vegas-style casino, featuring a live poker room.

With its official debut, the Westerly establishes a new benchmark for premium travel in Aruba, inviting travelers to experience a fresh perspective on island hospitality.

In our pictures: Milton Berlinski, Rene Kan, and Justus Martens with Hilton Corporate guests:  Chris Nassetta, President, and CEO of Hilton, Danny Hughes, President of the Americas, Randy Gaines, SVP Operations, Clint Woodlock, SVP of Finance, Jorge Giannattasio, Head of the Caribbean and Latin America, Valeria Nowotny, Area Vice President Operations for Mexico, the Caribbean and Central America,

For more information or reservations at The Westerly, visit thewesterly.com. For more information about Hilton Hotels & Resorts, visit Stories from Hilton.

La Cabana proudly celebrated the incredible mothers, members of its organization during a Mother’s Day

Breakfast, a heartfelt event filled with appreciation, connection, and joy.

Associates gathered for a delicious breakfast thoughtfully prepared by the talented Culinary Team, setting the perfect tone for a morning dedicated to celebrating the cherished heads of our families.

The highlight of the event was the election of Mother of the Year 2026, an honor proudly awarded to Jeanette Brooks.

Jeanette was recognized for her unwavering dedication, strength, compassion,

and the inspiration she brings both as a mother and as a colleague. Her commitment to family and

work, truly reflects the values upheld at La Cabana. We congratulate Jeanette on this well deserved recognition and thank her for being a role model to so many.

Throughout the celebration, raffle prizes were handed out to winning mothers, adding excitement and smiles to the morning. As a special token of appreciation, each mom also received a rose, symbolizing the resort’s gratitude and admiration for all that they do.

The atmosphere was beautifully enhanced by live music from Jerrino Bass, whose performance

added warmth, rhythm, and joy, making the celebration even more memorable.

A heartfelt thank to the Social Committee and the HR Team for organizing such a meaningful and

well-executed event. From the thoughtful details to the warm ambiance and engaging program, their  teamwork truly brought this celebration to life.

La Cabana, is proud to honor the women who give so much—at home, at work, and beyond.

The quarterly celebration at La Cabana Beach Resort & Casino, brings together members of management and associates for a festive luncheon filled with appreciation and pride.

Appreciation and pride of honored associates who demonstrated dedication, teamwork, and performance excellence, during the first three months of the year.

The winner for Associates of the Month, for January was Romeo Francis, Engineering; For February, Dwayne Ras, Loss Prevention, took the lead and for March, Kisairis Gomez, Human Resources, outshone all competitors.

For Supervisor of the Quarter, Desiree Henriquez, Owner Services, worked hard and smart to win the ultimate title and the Housekeeping Team, as Team of the Quarter, truly represented the caring and supportive attitude that make La Cabana Beach Resort & Casino an especially memorable resort.

Each of the winners represents the HEART of the organization through their commitment, passion, and professionalism.

Congratulations to all winners, and heartfelt gratitude to every associate who continues to give his/her best every day.

The delicious lunch was prepared with love by the resort’s dynamic culinary team. All nominees were acknowledged for their efforts to shine, at their respective departments.

January nominees included, Christopher Vrolijk, Front Office, Micherlande Prophete, Housekeeping, and Adriana Arenas, F&B.

February nominees included, Favier Thode, Human Resources, and Albert Albertsz, Engineering.

March nominees included, Steffan Marcune, Engineering, and Julienne Maduro, F&B.

Team of the Quarter nominees included Human Resources and Front Office.

Supervisor of the Quarter nominees included, Madelyn Maduro, Front Office, Clara Acevedo, Housekeeping, Linda Mitchell, Front Office, Samir Hernandez, Loss Prevention, and Helen Werleman, Executive Office.

Farmers’ Market at Community Center Playa Pabao

https://batibleki.wheninaruba.com/farmers-market-at-community-center-playa-pabao/

Private Chef Robert Bassiri in making his debut in Aruba

https://batibleki.wheninaruba.com/private-chef-robert-bassiri-in-making-his-debut-in-aruba/

The farmers want to be included in government decision making

https://batibleki.wheninaruba.com/the-farmers-want-to-be-included-in-government-decision-making/

A hopeful collective Experience

https://batibleki.wheninaruba.com/a-hopeful-collective-experience/

Looking for Percy Sweetnam

https://batibleki.wheninaruba.com/looking-for-percy-sweetnam/

Things I don’t understand

https://batibleki.wheninaruba.com/things-i-dont-understand/

At the unveiling of the new Urunbundu development, the Minister of Infrastructure Rene Herde, described a project of considerable size, big enough for 850 to 1,000 homes, apartments, and common areas. The comprehensive plan will be available in the ministry in Wayaca for the next two months for locals to look/see. This is strictly for locals, affordable housing, initiated by the government in 2009, now coming to fruition.

What I don’t understand is the brazen high jacking of the project-launch by parliamentarian Stephanie Sevinger, and #TeamBennySevinger and #SevingerForEver. Former minister Benny Sevinger stole from us, he is a convicted felon, the party should distance itself from any leftover relics from his shameful time as our minister of infrastructure. I do not understand why Rene Herde, a decent man as far as I know, links himself so closely with that corrupt legacy. The whitewashing of former minister Benny Sevinger by the AVP leadership is deplorable and unacceptable.

Another thing I don’t understand is why our Prime Minister travels so much leaving the Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs Geoffrey Wever alone in the arena, fighting in multiple townhall meetings for acceptance of HOFA – a Kingdom-level financial supervision law for Aruba. The Prime Minister gave a good speech at Vrije Universiteit, in Amsterdam. In his speech, he argued that institutions, regulations, and procedures are essential, but not sufficient to keep communities together. He stated that in Europe and other parts of the Western world, there is a growing distance between citizens and public institutions, a development that creates distrust and social fragmentation. “People do not want to only be governed,” he said. “People want to feel that they belong to something bigger than themselves.” I totally agree.

He should have given that speech HERE to multiple local unions who this week published a joint statement, to be delivered to the VNO, care of the Dutch officials. The unions have been making noise, in parliament and on the outside, campaigning against HOFA.

This week, they found the perfect excuse to protest. They were responding to comments by Dutch State Secretary Eric van der Burg. He compared the political status of Curacao/St Martin since 2010 with Aruba’s Status Aparte, perhaps wanting to bring all three islands into the kingdom under one legal umbrella. That stirred the patriotic sentiments in locals, irked and incensed them, they did not want to be clumped together with other islands, under one kingdom act — which is not the case, I think. His comments were hasty, uninformed, but they provided the opposition party a great opportunity to protest and raise hell, demand apologies, present letters, stage manifestations.

Thank you Hubert Mariano Dirksz for sending me the letter signed by the unions, but I believe the hoopla is politically motivated, and I wish they could see the light that HOFA will not weaken our self-government but strengthen our systems and create space for investment. The supervision is not permanent — it will last until we hopefully get our public finances in order.

The Prime Minister should gather the workers, teachers, and firemen, and all other labor organizations, give them the same speech he gave in the Netherlands, and knock some sense into them.

What I also do not understand is how the former Prime Minister can totally, deny, ignore, her role and her negotiations with the Dutch government. We remember. Did she conveniently forget just to play politics with the AVP government.

She signed the Laft agreement and made changes without previously involving the parliament in her decision making but her loyal soldiers, Ady Thijsen and Rocco Tjong, helped clean that incident up.

The MEP party is united behind EWC, and well organized, controlling its members and its proxies, presenting a united front. This is not the case with AVP. While the Prime Minister is travelling, his ministers operate as individual islands, each in his own kingdom.