Category Archives: To Do

Activities, Bonaire, Caribbean, divi, Divi Flamingo, Resorts, To Do

ISLAND ADVENTURES: Bonaire Bucket List

August 28, 2019 Divi Resorts

Take a break from the ordinary and explore the extraordinary on the unspoiled and unforgettable island of Bonaire! Good things come in small packages and this bite-sized island packs a punch for activities to thrill and chill. In fact, Bonaire probably checks off more than a few of your bucket list items, so to help you find out which ones, we’ve created our very own Bonaire Bucket List!

Now next time you visit, you’ll have plenty of items to cross off your list. Plus, send us photos and videos of your experiences for a chance to have them featured on social media!

KAYAK THROUGH LUSH MANGROVES
Glide through crystal clear waters to discover the mangrove forest of Lac Bay, where you’ll find three types of mangrove species, plenty of fish, vibrant sponges and coral, upside-down jellyfish and more! With clear bottom kayaks, you won’t miss a moment of underwater action as you navigate through romantic mangrove tunnels. Once you’ve worked up a sweat paddling with your partner, you’ll have the opportunity to cool off with a peaceful snorkel through a calm mangrove channel.

EXPLORE BONAIRE WITH A LOCAL
Discover the beautiful island of Bonaire in air-conditioned comfort with the help of a knowledgeable local guide from Tropical Travel Bonaire. Stops include 1000 Steps, a popular diving destination and beach, and Goto Lake, where you can often spot a flock of flamingos. You’ll also visit Museo Chich’i Tan, a 130-year-old Bonairian home and heritage museum where you’ll enjoy a local snack and lemonade prepared by the homeowner, and a tour of the residence. Rounding out this full island experience are stops at the colorful salt pans, historical slave huts, and Jibe City, the best spot on the island for windsurfing.

SWIM WITH TURTLES
Hop aboard and sail through the Caribbean’s bluest waters with Woodwind Cruises to explore three unique spots near Klein Bonaire. Snorkel through colorful coral reefs where you’ll discover an abundance of awe-inspiring fish and magnificent sea turtles, all pointed out to you by an expert guide. Back on board, enjoy drinks, snacks and a delicious local lunch to keep you energized.

RIDE HORSES THROUGH THE DESERT
It sounds like the start of a great western movie, but it’s real life! Saddle up with Rancho Washikemba for a leisurely horseback ride through Bonaire’s pristine desert terrain, spotting donkeys, parrots and iguanas along the way. Plus, if conditions allow, you might even have a chance to swim with your horse in the gorgeous Blue Lagoon Bay.

FEED 700+ DONKEYS
Yes, you read that right! Do yourself a favor; buy a bunch of carrots and stop by the Donkey Sanctuary. You will not regret this heartwarming experience where you can hand-feed hundreds of hungry donkeys alongside your car. Animal-lovers rejoice – if you bring tasty treats, these affectionate asses will instantly become your best friends.

SCOOT OR CYCLE AROUND TOWN
What could be better than a leisurely open-air drive around town with the wind blowing through your hair? We’re honestly not sure! Enjoy this experience with a single or double scooter or a traditional Dutch bicycle and prepare to travel throughout the island in style.

DRINK A CACTUS
Sip on something completely new that you can only find on Bonaire – cactus liquor! Born and bred on the island, a visit to the one-of-a-kind Cadushy Distillery includes an educational tour, as well as a sampling of several types of the world’s only cactus liquor in a relaxed, laidback environment. Afterward, enjoy a cactus cocktail under the shade of Calabash trees in the distillery’s tranquil gardens where parrots and other tropical birds like to play.

LEARN TO SCUBA DIVE
Discover a whole new underwater world when you learn to scuba dive at Divi Flamingo’s very own PADI 5-star dive operation, Divi Dive Bonaire. Friendly instructors will ease you into the water with a comprehensive educational class, underwater practice and a relaxing guided dive of the famed Calabas Reef, located right next to the resort.

WINDSURF IN JIBE CITY
The mecca for windsurfing on the island, you simply cannot ignore the colorful sails as they glide across the water with ease at Jibe City’s Sorobon Beach. Perfect for newbies and pros alike, Jibe City is THE place to learn this thrilling sport, and when you’re ready to take a break, grab a lounge chair by the water and relax with a cold drink.

GO FOUR-WHEELING TO BAT CAVES
If you like to go fast and you’re not afraid of getting a little dirty, you’ll love this quad tour, which not only takes you to the Bolivia Caves, home to hundreds of bats and ancient Indian drawings, but also to the Spelonk Lighthouse, where you’ll enjoy a beautiful view of waves crashing into the jagged coastline.

MEET A FLOCK OF FLAMINGOS
Pretty in pink, these birds of a feather flock together throughout the island. You’re most likely to spot these blushing beauties near the salt flats or at Goto Lake, but you can also get a closer look at a few flamingos in a special section of the Donkey Sanctuary.

To reserve your stay on Bonaire, visit www.DiviResorts.com. To book your scuba diving experience, visit www.DiviDive.com.

For more information on Bonaire adventures visit www.TropicalTravelBonaire.com. If you’re staying at Divi Flamingo, simply stop by the Concierge Desk.

Activities, Aruba, Barbados, Bonaire, Caribbean, divi, Divi Aruba Phoenix, Divi Dutch, Divi Flamingo, Divi Little Bay, Divi Southwinds, Divi Village, Resorts, St. Maarten, To Do

Summer Fun for Kids & Families

May 31, 2019 Divi Resorts

ARUBA

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.

Activities, Caribbean, divi, Divi Little Bay, Resorts, St. Maarten, To Do

Divi Little Bay Beach Resort Completes Resort Upgrades, Opens Expansive New Pool & Bar

March 1, 2019 Divi Resorts

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.

For more information on Divi Little Bay Beach Resort, visit http://www.DiviLittleBay.com.

For more images of the pureocean Pool & Bar, visit bit.ly/2Xt0qBY.

For more images of the new and improved restaurants, visit bit.ly/2BY8h1s.

Activities, Aruba, Caribbean, divi, Divi Aruba Phoenix, Divi Dutch, Divi Village, Resorts, To Do

St. Maarten’s 50th Carnival Celebration

February 27, 2019 Divi Resorts

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.

Activities, Barbados, Caribbean, divi, Divi Southwinds, Resorts, To Do

Divi Resorts Chef Participating in Barbados Food and Rum Festival

October 5, 2017 Divi Resorts

Tantalize your taste buds at this year’s 8^th annual Barbados Food and Rum Festival featuring Divi Resorts Executive Chef Henderson Butcher and his creative culinary skills. Slated to be even bigger and better than last year, this mouthwatering event, happening November 16-19, highlights the island’s internationally acclaimed master chefs, unique Caribbean flavors and world-class rum.

“This event is a great way for locals and tourists alike to discover the culinary capital of the Caribbean and sample delicious dishes,” said Chef Henderson.

An executive chef at Divi Southwinds Beach Resort’ pureocean restaurant, Chef Butcher has more than 18 years of expertise, growing up with a passion for cooking his country’s cuisine to share with the world. Now he spends his time his time crafting creative Caribbean dishes using local foods, and helping budding chefs discover their talents.

“Being selected as one of the featured chefs is a great honor and I’m proud to represent Divi Southwinds Beach Resort at this festival,” said Chef Butcher. “Plus, this event gives me the opportunity to interact with young, up-and-coming chefs on the island.”

Chef Butcher is cooking up a storm from 7pm-midnight as part of the Signature Rum event on Friday, November 17. On the menu for this year’s event are dishes that reflect the powerful effect rum can have in the cooking process.

“Barbados is the birthplace of rum, and we believe that people don’t use it enough,” said Chef Butcher. “When you put it in food, it gives it a different flavor. That’s why for my dishes, I want to highlight those flavors.”

Chef Butcher’s menu for the festival includes: Oven Roasted Pork Belly Porchatta with Rum Infused Char Siu style Barbecue Sauce on Savory Roast sweet potato with caramelized cinnamon butter, Purple Pickle Octopus Mount Gay Sliver Citrus Marinated Vegetables and Smoked Sweet Plantain Balls with Ginger Rum Gel and Salted Okra Crisp.

With Divi’s biggest sale of the season, featuring rates as low as $125 per night, there’s no better time to travel. And for locals looking to enjoy a stunning staycation, contact the resort directly to enjoy huge savings on your booking.

“We’re thrilled to offer our biggest sale of the season for Divi Southwinds Beach Resort, especially with this exciting event coming up,” said Marco Galaverna, Divi Resorts President & COO. “It’s the perfect opportunity for tourists to learn more about the beautiful island of Barbados and experience its world-famous rum and distinctive Caribbean flavors.”

Fall specials are on sale now for a limited time only but you can travel right up until December 31, 2018. For individual reservations, please call 1-800-367-3484 (Toll-free US) or 1-919-419-3484 (International). For group reservations, please call 1-800-801-5550 or email groupsales@diviresorts.com. To find out more information about Divi Resorts, visit www.diviresorts.com.

For more information on the 8^th annual Barbados Food and Rum Festival, visit: www.visitbarbados.org/food-and-rum-festival

Activities, Caribbean, Resorts, To Do

Buddymoons: Couples Are Taking Friends on Their Honeymoons

July 31, 2017 Divi Resorts

Honeymoons aren’t just for two anymore. After spending months planning your special day, why not make it last by inviting your closest friends on your honeymoon? “Buddymoons,” as the phenomenon is playfully named, are growing more popular. According to an article in Conde Nast Traveler, a recent survey on wedding travel found that 12 percent of Americans have attended a group honeymoon or buddymoon in the last five years.

As Conde Nast Traveler recommends, it’s best to pick a longer trip for your buddymoon, with a range of potential activities and sightseeing opportunities. Stick to groups of less than 10 people, mostly couples with similar outlooks and budgets. It’s always a good idea to minimize stress on your honeymoon!

If you’re planning a buddymoon, Divi Resorts offers a range of honeymoon packages at luxe resorts on Aruba, Barbados, St. Croix and St. Maarten—most with all-inclusive options. Spend a week in paradise with your other half, and give a few other couples in your friends circle an excuse to escape too!

<< Back to Blog Home