From my 2001 trip report-
"On our circuit around the island, while in Arikok National Park, we were able to stop at Fontein for the first time and that was REALLY cool. There is a museum, Fontein (fountain) and a cave. This is the only fresh water spring on the island. There were Chinese farmers who used this water to grow vegetables in the arid area surrounding Fontein. You enter through a museum, which houses some older Aruba photos, artifacts, furniture and native creatures. We even got "rattled" by an Aruban rattlesnake! There are folks there who will show you around. The four of us ended up with our own private guided tour, don't know why he picked us...but it was terrific. The gentleman took us through the small museum, out to Fontein. Here he fed the turtles and explained the history of the Tilapia which are found in the pond. The Chinese raised them for food. The water then drains off of the pond and flows down a small stream or channel. As the months go along, the Park plans on clearing more of vegetation to the path of the stream can be followed...to the sea? Along the way our guide spoke of some of the local customs, culture, flora and fauna."
During our next visit to Aruba, the museum was closed and everything deserted. When I asked what happened, I was told that the family who had donated the land decided they wanted it back. Now at least we know why.
Update- as of May 28, 2008- a timeshare resort. |
