Aruba - a couple questions

[fernmanus]

I have been kiting in Aruba, but it was nearly 20 years ago in the “C” kite days. I am headed there soon.

1. Is it possible to launch a foil kite side to the wind at the Huts? (Yes, I know the wind is super gusty and Boca is way better, but I kite on inland lakes, so it is par for the course) Just curious if the random kiter flies a foil kite there.
2. Is the wind less gusty if you ride upwind to Arashi?
3. Are booties a good idea at the huts for the experienced kiter or not really necessary?

Thank you in advance for your reply.

[SWO_kite]

I haven't been to Aruba since 2014, but I will say that shoes are a must. I asked the locals if I should wear boots and they said no - I found out later that day the reason my foot was stinging was because of venomous seaweed.

[fernmanus]

Thank you for answering question #3.

[Reset]

Looking for answer on questions 1 and 2 also! @fernmanus Have you been?

Also, is foiling with long mast problematic there or in Boca?

[Windigo1]

I haven't been to Aruba but I have a friend who spends 5 months there every winter and I was supposed to go go before Covid. I asked about question 2 and he said no because there are significant cliffs and it's just as gusty.

[fernmanus]

I went to Aruba in February. Wind was on the lighter side when I was there. I went to Boca every day and had great sessions on my 15m Foil. Flew 14m North Orbit at the huts a couple times, but when the wind is light, it doesn’t fill in well at the huts, so next time I go I will bring 9, 10, & 12m LEI for huts and pack my big foil kite again just in case and only fly it only at Boca.