Come walk with me down Crijnssenstraat, one of my favorite hidden streets in San Nicolas.
It's the kind of street you don't simply stumble upon. Quiet and residential, it's tucked away from the colorful murals and lively streets of San Nicolas. Unless someone who knows the neighborhood invites you in, you'd probably never discover it.
Our walk begins beside The Fading Prikichi, a beautiful mural of Aruba's native bird. At first, it's the vibrant colors and incredible detail of the parakeet that catch your eye. But look a little closer and you'll discover a hidden message, painted in gold and almost impossible to read until you step to just the right angle. It's one of those quiet discoveries that reminds you the best stories reveal themselves when you slow down.
As we continue our walk toward dinner, the unexpected often becomes the highlight. One afternoon, a neighbor relaxing on his patio waved us over to show us the native trees growing in his yard. Before we knew it, he had become part of the tour, sharing his own stories with our guests. That's the magic of San Nicolas. The people here don't just live in the neighborhood. They help tell its story.
Our walk ends beneath the bougainvillea spilling over the gates of the former Astoria Hotel, a landmark that has stood for nearly 100 years. During the refinery's golden years, San Nicolas welcomed people from around the world, and the Astoria was at the heart of it all. It was a place where people gathered, celebrated, and created memories. If those walls could talk, they'd have the most incredible stories to tell.
Today, this remarkable property remains in the care of the Croes family, who have preserved its history with great pride. We're incredibly grateful that they open their beautiful private garden exclusively for Kukoo Kunuku's Taste of San Nicolas guests.
As the sun begins to set and the Aruba sky glows with shades of orange, gold, and pink, we gather in this peaceful hidden garden to enjoy a dinner inspired by local Aruban flavors. Surrounded by tropical plants, old stone walls, new friends, and wonderful conversation, it feels less like dining at a restaurant and more like being welcomed into someone's home.
By the end of the evening, you've experienced far more than murals, history, art, and culture. You've shared stories with neighbors, discovered places few visitors ever see, and enjoyed an evening that feels genuinely Aruban.
And to me, that's what makes San Nicolas so unforgettable.
About the Author
Carla Cavallaro is the Brand & Business Development Manager for Jolly Pirates and the Brand Strategy & Product Development Manager for Kukoo Kunuku.
After nearly 40 years in Aruba, she created the Taste of San Nicolas experience to introduce visitors to the island's art, history, culture, local flavors, and the remarkable people who call San Nicolas home.
Discover the tour: https://www.kukookunuku.com/taste-of-san-nicolas/
