In 2011, while on assignment for Destination Magazine Aruba, I had the privilege of joining Jolivo Tromp — a local fisherman from Aruba — for an unforgettable morning at sea. Before sunrise, we set out from the quiet shore in his small, brightly painted wooden boat. The air was still, and the only lights guiding us were the distant glows from the hotels along Eagle Beach.
Jolivo practiced traditional, artisanal fishing — no modern equipment, just skill, intuition, and his deep knowledge of the ocean. As dawn broke over the Caribbean, he explained that he alone knew of a secret fishing spot, a place he had discovered long ago. Within minutes, fish were biting, and with remarkable speed and precision, he pulled them in by hand.
By 9 a.m., we returned to shore, bringing our fresh catch to a nearby restaurant, where the chef prepared it for us on the spot. Sharing that meal, after those quiet hours on the water, was more than just a culinary experience — it was a glimpse into Aruba’s authentic island life.
That morning with Jolivo Tromp remains one of my most meaningful experiences: a story of culture, tradition, and the deep connection between the people of Aruba and the sea.
Alexandre Julien Photographer / sxmdigitalmedia / Destrination Magazine Aruba
