Island adventure in Aruba: culture, sustainability & growth
Four students, one island, a life-changing experience. What began as a leap into the unknown on Aruba quickly turned into a journey full of culture, sustainability, and self-discovery. Alongside local students, these Hospitality Management students didn’t just learn about tourism – they challenged themselves, explored new perspectives, and found out what it really means to make a difference.
I’m Eef, and together with Sam, Kim, and Michelle, we’re students at Hotel Management School Leeuwarden. Last semester, we took part in the ‘Destinations in Transition’ minor in Aruba. What started as a leap into the unknown quickly turned into an intense journey full of culture, sustainability, and self-reflection. It changed not only the way we see tourism, but also the way we see ourselves.
Why this minor is perfect for hospitality students
As a Hospitality Management student, I don’t just learn about hospitality and operations – I also explore bigger topics like tourism and sustainability. That’s exactly what this minor focuses on. It teaches me to look beyond the front desk or restaurant: I see how tourism affects a region, how I can make sustainable choices, and how I can really make a difference. It broadens my knowledge, my perspective on the world, and my role as a future hospitality professional. “I’m just in love with islands. When I heard about this minor in Aruba, I thought: you know what? I’m just going to do it.” – Eef
Learning about the other side of tourism
On Aruba, I quickly realised that tourism isn’t all sunshine and beaches. It’s the main source of income, but it also drives up prices and increases social inequality. That’s what we explored in the minor. I became more aware of the impact of tourism and how I, as a future hospitality professional, can contribute positively. “This was new for me,” says Kim, “because we study at a hotel school. But that’s exactly why it was so valuable. You don’t just learn theory – you actually make a difference. And it starts with yourself.” One of the key parts was the Mindful Leadership Portfolio, focussed on personal growth, sustainability, and making conscious choices.
Working with local students and navigating cultural differences
We worked alongside students from the University of Aruba. Sometimes cultural differences were a challenge, but they also taught me flexibility and new ways of thinking. “Lessons didn’t always start on time, Papiamento was sometimes the main language, and grading systems were different,” Kim explains. “But that taught us to adapt and be open to different ways of communicating. That’s something I’ll carry forward.”
This was no ‘fun minor’
We worked hard on an advisory report for Arikok National Park, creating a sustainable concept for a derelict heritage site. “It was challenging, but we did it,” says Sam. Every activity focussed on the local nature and culture, from stargazing to presentations about quality of life – all centred on awareness, sustainability, and respect for the environment. “We developed a wellness retreat: low impact, high quality. Visitors stay in the heart of nature and learn about the area’s history. It’s not about mass tourism – it’s about a real experience,” Sam adds. The goal was to change how I look at my surroundings. Our ideas could even be implemented for real, giving us a chance to make a meaningful impact.
Beyond lessons: learning and laughing
Outside class, it was an adventure: hiking in Arikok, storytelling by the campfire, cooking together in the student house. “We learned so much, but also laughed a lot. You really live in a bubble and share everything,” says Eef. Of course, there were challenges: basic housing, spotty wifi, and expensive car rentals. But those challenges helped me discover – and push – my limits.
Why Aruba was perfect for this minor
For me, Aruba was ideal. The local community isn’t fully aware of tourism’s impact, so there’s room to explore sustainable models. Small actions matter – even picking up a shell can affect the environment. Seeing the island with this perspective made me realise how much potential there is for positive change.
Advice to fellow students
Go abroad! Pick something outside your comfort zone – that’s where you grow the most. This experience didn’t just expand my view on tourism, it also helped me see where my strengths and interests lie. Michelle sees herself as a sustainability or guest experience professional, or maybe a classic GM, preferably in Aruba. Kim dreams of her own business in international hospitality or a GM role. I know I don’t want the traditional hotel life – I’m passionate about people and learning from them, maybe HRM abroad. Sam is ready for events and weddings and will focus her final internship there to see if it fits.
One thing is clear: this minor helped all of us discover our strengths. My message? Go for it!
Curious to know more about the minor?
Have a look at the Destinations in Transition page.