Divi's Caribbean Connections

In 2019, Divi Resorts will celebrate 50 years of Caribbean hospitality. From the original Divi Aruba property, so named for the island's iconic Tradewind-sculpted Divi-Divi trees, this Caribbean-centric hospitality group has grown to include a range of properties scattered across five of the region's most desirable islands. Key to the brand's success is an understanding of their guests' vacation goals, whether that means a week dedicated to diving, time divided between beach and golf course, or just providing a comfortable sanctuary to regroup during a week of assorted island activities, adventures and relaxations. Here are three Divi destinations that showcase this vacation variety.

Bonaire is a favorite with divers. The waters surrounding the island have long been under the protection of a marine park. As a result, the reefs remain among the healthiest in the Caribbean, and marine life thrives. Many who visit Bonaire choose Divi Flamingo Beach Resort & Casino as their base for diving adventures. This oceanfront property was the Divi group's first expansions beyond Aruba. The appeal for divers is easy access to a lively reef right off the resort pier, and easy boat rides to dive sites both north and south, as well as the 26 additional sites on the nearby deserted island of Klein Bonaire. To support dive operations, Divi maintains a fleet of six custom-built dive boast, plus a dedicated snorkel boat. Divers also have 24-hour access to fresh scuba tanks for shore diving activities and drive-and-dive excursions around the island.

And Divi Flamingo is more than just a dive lodge. The entire resort underwent a sweeping renovation in 2016 that included guest accommodations, public areas and landscaping. Both pools were converted to mineral-based purification systems, and rooms were fitted with WiFi boosters to provide fast, secure Internet access. Families are not forgotten, as some rooms can accommodate additional guests on sleeper sofas, and include small kitchens. Two waterfront restaurants are available for breakfast lunch and dinner, and there is an on-site casino and a day spa. Because the resort is located just south of downtown Kralendijk, guests are also with easy walking access to a variety of shops and the island's favorite restaurants. Divi Flamingo enjoys a high percentage of repeat guests, some of who have been returning for decades.

The sun-splashed, desert-like landscapes of Aruba wouldn't seem like an ideal location for a golf course. But there is an oasis of lush fairways and manicured greens on the island's western corner, known as the Links at Divi Aruba. This immaculately-landscaped course, driving range and golf training facility is served by the Divi Village Golf & Beach Resort. And after sinking that final putt, golfers can refuel at the course clubhouse, or change for a refreshing dip and a libation at the resort's swim-up pool bar. Divi Village is the largest of the groups five Aruba resorts, offering 348 guest suites, each of which includes king beds, queen-size pull-out sofas, large bathrooms, fully-equipped kitchens and private balconies with garden or ocean views.

In addition to golf, guests have use of tennis courts, a fitness center, water sports, and a climbing wall. Parents can take advantage of a complimentary Kid's Club and nightly entertainment. Three restaurants provide variety, and guests have the option of an all-inclusive meal plan that expands culinary choices to include eight dining venues at the Village and other nearby Divi resorts. The white sands and turquoise waters of Drufi Beach are just a stroll away, and Divi's Concierge team can arrange an inspiring range of day trips and island excursions.

If a hotel room in Barbados isn't enough space, but renting an entire home villa is too much, the answer may be the Divi Southwinds Beach Resort. This sprawling and lushly-landscaped 20-acre property is comprised of 131 one and two-bedroom suites set against a half-mile of white-sand on Dover Beach. These accommodations are ideal for families or couples traveling together, as all include living rooms, full kitchens and furnished balconies.

The vacation experience at Southwinds is home-like, but guests also enjoy all the conveniences of a full-service resort. There are three swimming pools, two restaurants, an on-site convenience store, a beach bar, fitness center and spa. Active guests will find tennis courts, basketball, mini golf, bike rentals and a variety of water sports. Families share in a number of shared activities, or parents can enjoy together time while youngsters participate in age-appropriate programs at the Kid's Club. For added variety, the property is located near the St. Lawrence Gap district, which includes many of Barbados' liveliest restaurants, shops and nightclubs.

We work with Divi to create memorable Caribbean vacations and over the years, we've sent thousands of satisfied travelers to each of their landmark properties. To learn more about these and other Divi properties and plan your perfect island vacation, talk to our dive travel specialists at 800-330-6611 or send a note to sales@caradonna.com.