About Aruba Playbook
Built by a cinematographer with Caribbean roots, local connections, and a passion for sharing Aruba's hidden side.
Henry Rodgers
Cinematographer & Creator
The Story Behind the Playbook
I'm Henry. A professional cinematographer based in the Netherlands with deep Caribbean roots. My connection to Aruba runs through the Watapana Dance Company, a bond that opened my eyes to the island beyond the tourist strip. Through dance, music, and friendships with locals, I discovered an Aruba that most visitors never see.
As a cinematographer, I'm trained to notice what others overlook. The hidden cove where the light hits differently at sunset, the family-run restaurant on a side street with the best keshi yena on the island, the quiet stretch of coast where you won't share your towel space with anyone.
Living in the Netherlands gives me a unique perspective. I understand both Dutch and Aruban cultures intimately, and I know the Amsterdam-Aruba route better than most travel agents. Whether you're flying KLM from Schiphol or arriving from anywhere else, I've mapped out everything you need for an unforgettable trip.
Aruba Playbook is the guide I wish existed when I first started exploring the island. Honest, detailed, and built from real experience. No generic lists copied from other sites. Every beach, restaurant, and activity has been personally vetted, and every recommendation comes with the insider knowledge that only local connections can provide.
Why Trust This Guide
Real experience, local expertise, and a commitment to honest recommendations.
Real Experience on the Island
Every recommendation comes from firsthand visits, not recycled travel listicles. I have explored Aruba from the rugged north coast to the calm southern shores.
Cinematographer Eye for Hidden Beauty
A professional cinematographer by trade, I spot the overlooked coves, golden-hour viewpoints, and photogenic corners most guides miss entirely.
Dutch Market Expertise
Based in the Netherlands, I know the Amsterdam-Aruba route inside out. Flight deals, KLM tips, and what Dutch travelers specifically need to know.
Local Connections & Partnerships
Through the Watapana Dance Company and a network of local friends, I have access to authentic cultural experiences and off-the-beaten-path recommendations.
What Travelers Say
Real feedback from real travelers who used Aruba Playbook.
“Henry's recommendations were spot-on. We found beaches we never would have discovered on our own. The best Aruba trip we've ever had!”
Sarah & Mark
Amsterdam, NL
“As a fellow Dutchie flying to Aruba, the flight tips and local knowledge saved us time and money. This guide is the real deal.”
Jeroen V.
Rotterdam, NL
“The restaurant picks were incredible. Every single one was a hit. You can tell these come from someone who actually knows the island.”
Lisa T.
New York, US
What We Stand For
Authentic Recommendations
Every restaurant, beach, and activity we recommend has been personally vetted. No pay-to-play listings.
Local Knowledge
Our content is informed by real connections on the island. Beyond the resort strip and tourist traps.
Honest & Transparent
We clearly disclose affiliate partnerships and never let commissions influence our recommendations.
Community First
We support local businesses, sustainable tourism, and the vibrant Aruban community that makes the island special.
Affiliate Disclosure
Aruba Playbook participates in affiliate programs with trusted travel partners including Viator and Travelpayouts. This means we may earn a small commission when you book through links on our site, at no extra cost to you.
These partnerships help us keep this resource free and continuously updated with fresh content. Our recommendations are always based on quality and value, never on commission rates.
We only recommend products and services we genuinely believe will enhance your Aruba experience. If something isn't worth your time or money, we won't recommend it, regardless of the affiliate opportunity.
Start Planning Your Trip
Explore 50+ hand-picked activities, hidden beaches, and the best restaurants on One Happy Island. Your adventure starts here.