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 has 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 will be wearing a special Aruba Ariba uniform every Saturday during the month of July to commemorate 60 years of the original Aruba Ariba.
Team members enjoyed preparing for the month with celebratory videos that will play throughout the month across Hilton Aruba’s social media platforms and the resort to share the spirit of the Aruba Ariba festivities.
Every Saturday during the month of July, arriving guests will be greeted in our 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 kicked off festivities on the first Saturday of the month to celebrate with the team.
The Food & Beverage team, 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 also enjoy a special treat served around the pool area each Saturday in July with a custom 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 is designed to enhance the guests’ dining experience, celebrating this historic day.
During the Month of July, Mira Solo Bar will be 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 will be available for purchase by guests. They were created exclusively in honor of the iconic cocktail’s anniversary.
Jocky, escorted by his family members, also gave the new Aruba Ariba Gelato, and the Aruba Ariba Macaroons two thumbs up and at the end of the congenial lobby celebration. Incidentally, Jocky’s wife’s birthday, is July 1st, and he believes it was a sign, that it’s a match made in heaven!!