From Paris to Paradise - Vacationing like a Champion with an Olympic Medalist

Inside scoop from a two-time Olympic medalist

It’s not every day we host an Olympic champion at Boardwalk, so we asked Rosamaria if she wanted to share some of the experiences as a top performing athlete with us.

You made your Olympic debut in Tokyo in 2021 and immediately won silver. An incredible result. Does the bronze in Paris feel equally good? 

I believe that each Olympics has its own story and is special in different ways. Finishing with a victory in the bronze game this time was different than ending with a loss in the final, but both medals were very celebrated for different reasons. Being an Olympic medalist is a historic feat! 

The Paris Olympic medals have a tiny bit of the Eiffel Tower’s steel inside them; a very special keep-sake. Do you keep your medals on display in a case? 

I keep them in a special box that we got from the competition to preserve them from any deterioration. 

You started your professional volleyball career in 2011; how long do you see yourself performing at this highest level? 

I love what I do, I intend to keep playing as long as I believe it makes sense and I am satisfied with what I am delivering. At the same time, I have other dreams and plans for my life outside of sports that I want to put into practice as soon as possible. I will analyze year after year what makes me happy. 

What advice do you have for young talented athletes on a small island like Aruba? 

Keep believing that it is possible, trying to do your best every day so that you are ready when the opportunity arises. I was born and raised in a very small city, with a reality of sports opportunities very different from the rest of Brazil, so I know that the path can often seem impossible, but I believe that opportunities appear to those who seek them. 

Is this your first time in Aruba? 

Yes, my first time and I hope it won't be the last because from the first day I was enchanted by the island. Friendly people, great infrastructure and paradisiacal beaches! 

What is your connection with the Caribbean? 

It was my second time in the Caribbean, and I have always admired the charisma and energy of the Caribbean lands. I think it is a bit similar to Brazil; cheerful, warm, musical. 
 
Besides resting and relaxing, is there anything special you did or experienced while in Aruba? 

I think I watched the most beautiful sunset of my life in Aruba. It was definitely a highlight of the trip! 

What was your favorite hang-out during your stay at Boardwalk? 

I loved staying by the pool in the late afternoon, all the plants and trees gave me the feeling of being in a natural pool in the middle of the forest. 

If you’re not exhausted from performing at the highest levels, like on this trip, would you say your are an active vacationer or a beach/pool lounger? 

For sure I am a beach lounger! I love to stay on the beach just enjoying the sun and the sea breeze. 

Would you return, or recommend Aruba to friends? 

Definitely! I would recommend Aruba to anyone looking for a trip to relax and enjoy the best that nature has to offer.