DIVI ARUBA PHOENIX BEACH RESORT Weekly activities are fun for everyone at this stunning resort on Palm Beach. Choose from water aerobics, bingo, pool volleyball, arts & crafts, beach walks, ping pong and basketball competitions, movie nights and more!
DIVI DUTCH VILLAGE BEACH RESORT & DIVI VILLAGE GOLF & BEACH RESORT Popular summer activities at both resorts include bingo every day with great prizes, water aerobics three times a week at the Seabreeze Pool, a kid’s scavenger hunt Monday mornings at the infinity pool, Fun in the Sun music and entertainment Monday evenings at the infinity pool, and a putting contest Tuesday mornings with polo shirts and prizes at The Links at Divi Aruba.
BARBADOS
DIVI SOUTHWINDS BEACH RESORT On Barbados, guests can find an endless list of activities, including aquacise classes, beach volleyball, poolside bingo, pool volleyball, line dancing, nature walks, mini golf competitions, movie nights and more.
BONAIRE
DIVI FLAMINGO BEACH RESORT & CASINO Bonaire is packed full of fun activities both above and below the water. Guests can enjoy sunset yoga, dive classes, live music, karaoke and of course, 24/7 diving and snorkeling right from our shore, at the Calabas house reef or from one of our dive boats.
ST. MAARTEN
DIVI LITTLE BAY BEACH RESORT Situated on a picture-perfect peninsula, the resort abounds with entertaining activities. Selections include beach and pool Olympics, crab races, water balloon tosses, mixology demonstrations, bingo, trivia, live music and entertainment, water aerobics, scavenger hunts, movie night, sunrise yoga, kid’s tie-dye, arts & crafts, dance lessons and morning walks, to name a few.
Windows on Aruba’s Pop-Up Michelin Dinners on June 7 and June 8 will feature top chefs with Eight Michelin stars combined.
Divi Village Golf & Beach Resort’sWindows on Aruba restaurant will play host to the Caribbean’s largest Michelin pop-up dinners on June 7 and June 8, 2019. The evening events include cocktails, 4 amuses and an extravagant 5-course dinner with wine pairings from Pepia-Est Aruba.
“It’s a unique culinary experience that we’re excited to offer our guests,” said Marco Galaverna, Divi Resorts President & COO. “It’s not every day you have top chefs with eight Michelin stars combined all in one place.”
All participating chefs hail from the Netherlands and include François Geurds of FG Restaurant and FG Food Labs, Erik Van Loo of Parkheuvel, Edwin Vinke of De Kromme Watergang and Jermain de Rozario of De Rozario.
“Each chef is bringing along their unique set of skills and innovative culinary knowledge for an evening of bold flavors and mouthwatering creations, sure to satisfy the taste buds,” said Divi Village Golf & Beach Resort’s Director of Food & Beverage, Dominique Bauduin. “It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime event you don’t want to miss!”
Tickets for the event are currently on sale for $185 per person, which includes taxes and service fees, and Divi Village Golf & Beach Resort is offering special discounted room rates for June 1-15. Rates are as low as $155 per night (room only) and $199 per person, per night (all-inclusive). For more information, or to book your reservations, visit www.diviresorts.com/aruba-culinary-event.htm.
Sale Terms & Conditions: This offer applies to reservations made for travel from June 1 to June 15, 2019. Discount based on rack pricing. All-inclusive rates based on double occupancy. Taxes & services charges NOT included, except for All-Inclusive packages. 3-night minimum stay required for All-Inclusive packages. No maximum night stay is required. Restrictions apply. Full payment is required at time of reservation. Cancellations must be received at least 7 days prior to arrival for refund. Flight cancellations are subject to airline cancellation policies. Divi Resorts is not responsible for changes in airfare pricing. Offer is subject to availability and may be discontinued at any time. Offer valid on new reservations booked at a nightly rate only. Offer not valid on timeshare reservations. Cannot be combined with any other Divi special offer or discounted rate.
Additions to Divi Little Bay Beach Resort include a beach view pool oasis and bar, plus two new restaurants and more!
Divi Little Bay Beach Resort on St. Maarten is making a splash with the grand opening of its brand new pureocean Pool & Bar, an expansive oasis with multiple pools that spill into one another overlooking stunning ocean view, and the completion of all resort upgrades.
“There’s something for everyone at the new pureocean Pool & Bar,” said Marco Galaverna, Divi Resorts President & COO. “Plenty of pools for the kids to play, a swim-up bar for mom and dad to sip on a much-needed cocktail, a hot tub for those hoping to unwind after a day of island adventures and a fire pit to sit around while watching the sunset.”
Named one of “The best pools in the Caribbean, 2019 edition” by USA Today, this stunning new focal point features soothing waterfalls, a central fire pit, a lively swim-up bar, a large hot tub, comfortable cabanas and seating on several terraces.
“Our new pool area is like nothing you’ve ever seen below. It’s truly a spectacular spot to soak up the sun and enjoy the terrific turquoise sea in the background,” said Anne-Marie, Divi Little Bay Beach Resort’s General Manager. “Plus, in the evening, the pools illuminate in a magnificent display of color, making it the perfect place to relax day or night.”
The resort also recently opened two brand new restaurants, pureroc, a unique dining experience featuring an incredible selection of meats, seafood and veggies cooked to perfection on a steaming hot lava rock, and The Shack, a grab and go eatery serving up delicious Caribbean jerk, roti, BBQ and more, as well as completing upgrades to the resort’s signature pureocean Restaurant, which now features a refreshed modern look with sleek furniture and contemporary décor, expanded indoor seating and completely revamped menus full of delicious classics and tasty island favorites.
Carnival is hands down one of the most exciting times of the year in the Caribbean! The vibrant colors and lively spirit of the event continues for several weeks, with plenty of parades, upbeat music, costume contests and celebratory food and drink.
This year on St. Maarten, the island celebrates its 50th Carnival season from April 20 – May 7. Originated back in 1969, Carnival is a way to celebrate the life of the island, its traditions and its people, and we don’t want you to miss out on any of the fun! Check out all of the festivities planned for this year:
MARCH 16 – APRIL 20 During the month leading up to Carnival season, you’ll find “jump-ups” (fabulous street parties) and entertaining events all over the Dutch side of the island, including colorful parades, the highly anticipated Carnival Queen elections and friendly competitions.
APRIL 20 This is the official start of Carnival on St. Maarten, marked by the opening of the Carnival Village in Phillipsburg. The celebration includes sizzling street food, live music and fun activities for the whole family.
APRIL 24 The heart and soul of any Caribbean Carnival revolves around traditional music, including the island’s popular Soca style. On April 24, watch as Soca artists hit the high notes for a chance to win $10,000 and the title of best Groovy or Power Soca at the annual Soca Rumble.
APRIL 28 & APRIL 30 Join hundreds of spectators for the peak of this year’s Carnival at the Junior Carnival Parade and Cultural Showcase on April 28 and the Grand Carnival Anniversary Parade on April 30. Follow along as animated participants decked out in vibrant glitter, colorful feathers, sparkling sequins and elaborate headdresses dance through town.
MAY 1 – MAY 4 Soak in the sweet sounds of the Caribbean for three nights of lively back-to-back performances from the Noche Latina, International Soca and One Love Reggae concerts.
MAY 7 Time to pack up the colorful beads and feathered costumes. May 7 marks the official end of the 2019 Carnival season on St. Maarten with an exuberant closing ceremony and the traditional burning of King Momo, a fiery spectacle for all.
Home to famed singer Rihanna and Mount Gay Rum (the rum that invented rum), this surprisingly large island with a British heritage offers endless amounts of fun and adventure both on land and below the water. Our corporate Communications Specialist, Alyssa Smith recently experienced the island for herself and we followed along to find out what makes Barbados so special.
1.ENDLESS ACTIVITIES Whether you’re longing for leisurely days lounging beachside or seeking a thrilling new adventure, there’s something for everyone on Barbados. Delicious food, lush landscapes, friendly faces and striking landmarks you have to see to believe, are in abundance on this island. Fun for the whole family or romantic island bliss for two lovebirds, Barbados checks all the boxes for a perfect Caribbean paradise.
2. MONKEYS GALORE They are everywhere, and they are adorable! Originally brought to the island 350 years ago from West Africa as pets, these quick-moving mammals are a joy to watch in their natural habitat. While you can see Green Monkeys anywhere on the island, the best place to catch a closer look is at the Barbados Wildlife Reserve, where not only can you see hundreds of monkeys doing what they do best – monkeying around, but you can also watch as unique species of deer, tortoises, peacocks, caimans, iguanas and more roam freely throughout the 4-acre forest. Insider tip: arrive a little before 2 p.m. so you don’t miss feeding time, where all the animals gather to grub out. For details, visit www.barbadoswildlifereserve.com.
3. BEAUTIFUL BEACHES Warm sand, turquoise water and sunny skies are always on the menu on Barbados! With more than 70 miles of both pink and white sand beaches, there’s a shore for every occasion. Check out Bathsheba for the coolest rock formations, Browne’s Beach for stellar snorkeling and Dover Beach for the ultimate in relaxation, located right on Divi Southwinds’ property.
4. FOODIE HEAVEN If you’re a culinary connoisseur, a gastronomy guru or just a traveler who loves to chow down, Barbados is the island for you. Stop by Divi Southwind’s on-site restaurant, pureocean to savor award-winning Executive Chef Henderson Butcher’s perfectly fried flying fish and rich macaroni pie, both local delicacies you have to try. And if you want to experience the island’s best fusion of food, entertainment and culture, stop by Oistins Bay Gardens for the famed Oistins Fish Fry every Friday night. Oistins is open every night of the week, but the seafood market really comes alive Friday nights with sizzling seafood, energetic music and a bustling crowd of locals and tourists ready to devour the most authentic Barbadian dishes. The locals swear by Pat’s Place & Uncle George’s, but be sure to arrive early to avoid long lines.
5. STELLAR SURFING (FOR ALL SKILL LEVELS) If you think surfing is not for you, think again! Barry’s Surf Shop will have you shredding waves like a pro in no time. Open to all skill levels, a beginner surfing lesson with Barry’s includes a quick beachside class to learn how to properly stand up on the board, and then you’re off. With a stand up success rate of 99%, you’re bound to discover why the sport is so addictive, and who knows, maybe you’ll find out you missed your true calling in life! To book your lesson, visit www.surfing-barbados.com.
6. SWIM WITH TURTLES Dive into an underwater world where turtles, fish and colorful sea creatures abound. Climb aboard Tiami’s 60-ft catamaran to spend the day snorkeling and swimming side-by-side with turtles and a variety of exotic fish, a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Back on the boat, enjoy a fully stocked bar, delicious snacks and a full lunch, all served up by an attentive, upbeat crew. To book your tour, visit tiamicatamarancruises.com.
7. HARBOUR LIGHTS BARBADOS Think dinner and a movie, but a million times better! Harbour Lights Barbados’ Beach Extravaganza Dinner Show is a must while on the island, happening on Mondays and Wednesdays only. Enjoy a night full of lively entertainment from bands, dancers, stilt walkers, acrobats and even a fire performer. Add great music, an upbeat party environment with dancing and balloons, flowing drinks and a traditional Bajan style BBQ, and you’ve got an ideal night out on Barbados. For more details, visit www.harbourlightsbarbados.com.
8. ST. NICHOLAS ABBEY What do you get when you mix history with rum? The St. Nicholas Abbey! No, it’s not an actual abbey, but it is filled with 350 years of history and Barbados’ finest aged rum, just waiting to be sipped. Originally a sugarcane plantation, this now museum, working rum distillery and plantation home has a cafe, tropical birds, vibrant gardens, mahogany forests, tropical gullies, a steam mill, a courtyard and more, all on its 400-acre property. For more details, visit www.stnicholasabbey.com.
9. COOL CAVES Prepare for a journey far below the ground into mystical caverns to explore the island’s most popular attraction, Harrison’s Cave. This natural wonder features fascinating grottos, dripping stalactite formations that look like glistening chandeliers, huge echoing caverns and underground waterfalls. Marvel at the formations as you wind through the caves by tram or book the Eco-Adventure Tour where you get down and dirty to discover the caves by foot, and sometimes by hand and knee, for even more excitement. For more details, visit www.harrisonscave.com. Another sweet spot to visit is the Animal Flower Cave, the island’s only accessible sea cave, located on the north side of Barbados. Named for its many sea anemones, this is a popular destination for locals and tourists thanks to its spectacular views, a natural swimming pool inside the cave and a restaurant overlooking the crashing waves.
10. LUSH LANDSCAPES No matter where you look, you’re bound to find abundant greenery, majestic towering trees and vibrant flowers, and there’s no shortage of sanctuaries dedicated to preserving the island’s flora and fauna. Bask in the natural beauty with a scenic drive up Cherry Tree Hill or a stop at the ever-popular Flower Forest, Hunte’s Garden or Andromeda Botanic Gardens. For more details, visit flowerforestbarbados.com, huntesgardensbarbados.com and andromedabarbados.com. You can also book a full-day island excursion with Glory Tours to uncover even more of the island’s remarkable sights. For tour details, visit www.glorytours.org.
Meet our featured President’s Elite Members for this issue, James and Brenda Dubilzig from Perrysburg, Ohio.
The Dubilzigs became Divi Vacation Club Members back in February 2016, converting their traditional Divi Vacation ownership weeks to Pure Points. The couple travels twice a year to Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort, often bringing along their adult son, daughter and their significant others, so they were looking for more flexibility.
On one of the Dubilzigs’ recent trips to Aruba, we sat down with them to learn why the Divi Vacation Club fits their needs so well.
“The flexibility is truly a great benefit for the whole family,” James said. “We enjoy being able to choose different room sizes depending on how many people we have traveling with us. It’s also convenient for us to take advantage of midweek arrivals. We often choose to travel Wednesday to Wednesday, for example.”
The Dubilzigs have visited Divi Little Bay Beach Resort on St. Maarten, which Brenda says is so beautiful, and Aruba, where they enjoy playing golf at The Links at Divi Aruba, the 9-hole golf course surrounding Divi Village Golf & Beach Resort. But they say Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort is still their true home away from home.
“Phoenix has everything you want, without being a huge, touristy spot,” said Brenda. “The beach is right there, the pool is right there, and you really get to know the staff. When we’re here, we love just relaxing, reading, trading stories with the family and going out to nice restaurants.”
Divi Aruba Phoenix’s upscale, chef-driven pureocean Restaurant is a favorite, especially when the Dubilzigs want to dine in and enjoy the sunset right from the beach. When visiting in the fall, the family enjoys watching college football from the swim-up bar at purebeach, the resort’s casual dining restaurant.
“It’s become a family tradition to watch the Michigan-Ohio State game here on Aruba every year,” James said. “Since our children went to the University of Michigan and we live in Ohio, the famous rivalry makes the game an absolute must-see for our entire family, especially on vacation, and the staff at purebeach is always more than happy todevote one of their TVs to the big game.”
