I prefer my birthdays alone

Spending 41 in Aruba.

I knew exactly where I wanted to be on my 41st birthday—on a beach.

When it didn’t work out for anyone to join me, I decided to go alone. Not a big deal for someone like me who loves solo travel, but it definitely raised a few eyebrows when I told people.

“Why would anyone want to spend their birthday alone?” they’d ask.

For me, the answer is simple: my birthday is the one day—if there are no other days—that I get to do whatever I want, whenever I want, and however I want. Adding other people to the equation? That just complicates things.

So, I opted to go solo.

With my flight and hotel booked late Saturday night, I set out early Sunday morning for four blissful days of sun, ocean, culture, food, and happiness—exactly what Aruba, known as ONE HAPPY ISLAND, is famous for.

Stepping Into Paradise

The moment I stepped out of the airport with my carry-on, Marni straw beach bag, and a bottle of duty-free Veuve Clicquot Rosé, I felt the birthday celebration begin.

The weather was perfect (Aruba rarely experiences hurricanes or bad storms, thanks to its location outside the hurricane belt). While I had a loose list of things I wanted to do, I felt no pressure to check anything off. This trip was about going with the flow.

After grabbing some cash from the ATM, I hopped in a taxi to the Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort, one of the few hotels with rooms available when I booked the night before. They even offered a complimentary birthday dinner during my stay—a nice touch.

Since my room wouldn’t be ready for a few hours, I changed into a sundress from my bag and headed to Passions on the Beach. The food wasn’t mind-blowing, but the views were unforgettable. By the time I checked into my Superior Studio Suite, I was happy, full, and ready to hit the beach.

I spent the evening watching the sunset, sipping cocktails, and chatting with locals.