My top 10 holiday crushes
10. Disco Las Vegas in Blanes
I first came here in 1994 when I was 16. I was allowed by my strict mother, who herself returned married from Argentina in the '70s, to go out once in Spain ('just this once!'). After that one evening in this typical Spanish disco, I was completely in love.
9. Walt Disney World Resort
Stayed for a whole week during my honeymoon. Experienced everything, saw all the parades, swam in the two water parks, and almost went bankrupt in the Disney X-Mas store. As the cherry on top, I also danced in the largest nightclubs. SU-PER-COOL!
8. Beautiful Cuba
The tour I took there ranks very high in the top 10. A super fun travel group, fascinating history, picturesque streets, and beautiful white beaches. And perhaps the coolest part: there was Cuban music on every street corner, and with a bit of luck, it was even played live!
7. Música Latina
Reggaeton, bachata, salsa, cumbia... it doesn't matter, as long as it has that nice 'I'm lying with a cocktail under a palm tree' vibe. Without having heard this music, I haven't really been on holiday. Okay, that might be a bit of an exaggeration, but it kind of belongs to a holiday, right?
6. Argentina
This always feels like coming home. Even if you don't quite belong. You will always remain 'La Holandesa'. But whether I'm walking the streets of Buenos Aires or across the square of the provincial town where my family lives, it's still cool that half of my roots lie here.
5. Always in the Mood for Malibu
This has always been my favorite. No holiday without this drink. During the day on the sunny beach mixed with Cola Zero. In the evening at the disco, just pure on the rocks. Wine or a pink cocktail also tastes great, but Malibu: I love you!
4. Eating, eating, and more eating
I don't know what you eat on holiday, but I eat a whole lot. Chocolate on the plane, no matter the time. Burgers, fries, pizza, chips... This goes on all day. And if possible, also a big ice cream with as many different flavors as possible.
3. Everyone I've ever traveled with
You may have forgotten me, but I certainly haven't forgotten you! Of course, I have that amazing photo database! On top of that, I will always remember some of your quotes and had the best experiences with you! You made my study trips, holidays, and internship extra great! Gracias!
2. Runner Up Ibiza
Sorry, Ibiza, you're not number 1. It wasn't love at first sight. I was 6, and we were 'just' in Spain, so I had no idea I was supposed to find this island extra special. But of course, Ibiza is super cool! Party, beach, Ibiza city, sun, sea, cool hotels, and everywhere that relaxed house music in the background... Love it!
1. Arriba Aruba
Once again, sorry Ibiza... but what's from afar is simply better. And the harder to get, the better. This was truly love at first sight. The dazzling white beaches (really!!), the light blue sea, the warm sun, the coolest music, and colorful beach bars and souvenirs. This is truly the best place I've ever been to!!