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INTRODUCING CHEF DARWIN TORRES PAGE 8 UNVEILING DIVI ARUBA PHOENIX BEACH RESORT’S NEW LOOK PAGE 9
SPRING 2018 1
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FROM THE DESK OF THE PRESIDENT Happy spring to all of our owners and guests! I hope that you enjoyed a pleasant New Year and that you’re looking forward to an exciting spring season. Spring is a time of renewal, and we’re certainly celebrating lots of new things at Divi Resorts. We kicked off 2018 with the completion of Divi Dutch Village Beach Resort on Aruba. The changes were really a labor of love for me personally. Envisioning the potential for this mature resort, with its large units, tropical grounds and beachside location was very exciting. The transformation has been unilaterally praised, and our owners and guests have sent me many wonderful notes and messages of appreciation. We’ve completely redesigned all three pools and added comfortable cabanas, umbrellas and palapas. We also added a fun swim-up bar and poolside food service at the newly renamed Tiki Pool Bar & Grill. The exterior of our buildings now have new rooflines and modern balcony railings to give the resort a sleeker look, and lighting has been improved around the grounds. Every unit has been totally remodeled with new fixtures, fittings, kitchens, furniture, drapes and tons of upgrades. We also added a new check-in building to improve our guest experience and BBQ’s for those great cookouts everyone enjoys. Feel free to stop by one of our concierge desks to arrange for a property tour. This spring we will finish renovating units at Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort in buildings A, B, C and D, and new lobby furniture will be added. Plus, puredeli is now enclosed for air-conditioned comfort. There are some great photos of the renovations on pages 9-10. At Divi Southwinds Beach Resort we are finishing up renovations to all units. In addition, we recently reopened a bar in the activity center, close to the main pool, and refreshed the pool area. Renovations will soon be starting at Divi Village Golf & Beach Resort on Aruba, to upgrade furniture and fixtures in Phases 3 & 4 Eagle and Birdie units. Lastly, we have been diligently working on reopening our beloved Divi Little Bay Beach Resort on St. Maarten. Hurricane Irma took its toll last fall and it was devastating for us to watch. Almost immediately after the storm, we committed to reopening the resort, and we’ve made great progress. We hope all of our loyal owners, members and past guests will visit St. Maarten as soon as possible to give our staff and the island a much-needed boost.
Right after the hurricane, Divi Resorts started a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for our staff members. I personally want to thank each and every owner, member, guest and employee for their generosity; 100% of the $57,850 raised has gone to help Little Bay’s staff. As always, we look forward to seeing you on our islands soon and don’t forget, we always appreciate your feedback. I personally read many of your reviews on TripAdvisor and comments on Facebook, so please keep them coming. Sincerely,
Marco Galaverna President & COO, Divi Resorts
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A DIVI GM Many Divi owners and guests have the pleasure of knowing Alvin Jemmott, General Manager of Divi Southwinds Beach Resort and Divi Heritage Beach Resort, but they may not know about his many interesting hobbies, one of which is displaying his fancy footwork through ballroom dancing. Alvin frequently teams up with his lovely wife, Lydia, hitting the dance floor to help benefit various causes. We sat down with Alvin to learn more about this entertaining hobby and catch up on everything he’s been up to lately.
When did you first start ballroom dancing? I started ballroom dancing ten years ago when I was President of the Barbados Hotel Association. At the end of my presidential term, the association wanted to host an event in my honor, as they do for all outgoing presidents, and I wanted the event to be a ball. My wife and I signed up for ballroom dancing classes and fell in love with it - the rest is history!
ago, which provides a full scholarship to one student per year, allowing them the opportunity to achieve a degree in either travel and tourism or culinary arts. I also spend a lot of time working with the Barbados Association of Office Professionals, serving as a guest speaker and promoting active participation in professional associations.
What have you done recently as Chairman of the Board of Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc.? My position with BTMI has given me the opportunity to participate at the highest level of our tourism industry and travel the world representing Barbados. I’ve attended trade shows in London, Canada, Puerto Rico, Germany, Columbia and Brazil, and few months ago, I traveled to South Africa to promote the Golden Oldies World Cricket Festival that was held in Barbados last year. Hosting that festival in Barbados was huge for our island’s tourism industry, especially during a year designated as the year of sports tourism. Events like this helped put the island on track for yet another record-breaking year.
Tell us about your experiences dancing for fundraising and charitable events. Lydia and I have participated in many fundraising events over the years. We most recently danced at the ‘Barbados Ball’ hosted by the Barbados Association in Canada, and the Barbados Association of Central Florida for their independence gala. Another one of our most memorable experiences was dancing for a fundraiser that benefitted a Divi Southwinds employee who lost her home in a fire. The event raised over $12,000 for the employee and her family, and seeing how much that donation has helped our colleague return to a relatively normal life is an absolute blessing.
What is your favorite part of being a GM at Southwinds on Barbados? I love sharing knowledge I have gained over the many years I’ve been involved in the industry. I also love seeing our business grow, which often calls for juggling many tasks at a time. As GM of Southwinds, I treat the business as if it was my own, always looking for ways to improve and enhance our resort. Plus, if I were not a Barbadian, I would still want to visit this island purely because of the friendliness of the people living here. You can always find someone willing to help in whatever situation.
How has dance helped you give back to the community? I thought participating in these events would be a fun and unique way to give back to my community. In recent years, I have used dance as a vehicle to help deliver my tourism message to various groups in our source markets. Barbados has a tourism-dependent economy, and with many Barbadians living in our major source markets, I believe our communities can be a positive influence in helping the destination grow. One of the other ways I work with the community, is by helping young people reach their full potential through education. I developed a tourism scholarship with my brother about eight years
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3 REASONS TO BECOME A DIVI VACATION CLUB MEMBER TODAY! PURE FUN The Divi Vacation Club was created especially for you, our valued owners and guests. It’s bursting with endless savings and benefits at incredible destinations around the Caribbean and the world.
PURE VALUE
PURE FLEXIBILITY
Divi Vacation Club members enjoy endless travel deals and substantial discounts on bonus getaways, accommodations, airfare, rental cars, cruises, plus last-minute travel getaways and short stay packages!
With a Divi Vacation Club membership, you can choose the accommodation size that fits your needs and midweek or weekend arrival, every time you travel! Planning vacations has never been easier.
P L AT I N U M
JOIN NOW & RECEIVE CLUB LOYALTY BENEFITS* Our loyalty benefits program delivers valuable savings on:
GOLD
PRES
IDEN
T’S E LITE
Club Services – save money each time you travel on reduced fees, special discounts and more! Club Recognition – as an elite member, you’ll always be treated like a VIP, ensuring that you feel like a priority the moment you arrive at any of our Divi Club Destinations. Club Amenities – fantastic savings at Divi Club Destinations on dining, shopping, golf, spa, water sports and more!
LOYALTY SHOULD ALWAYS BE REWARDED
learn more about the divi vacation club today! If you are staying at a Divi Resort on Aruba… Guests at Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort – Call ext. 7002 or 7004. Hours: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
STOP BY OUR LOBBY CONCIERGE DESKS ON ARUBA AND LEARN MORE!
Guests at Divi Village Golf & Beach Resort – Call ext. 4652 or 4653. Hours: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
If you are not staying on Aruba, please call 1-888-863-6822/1-919-419-3484 or visit www.divivacationclub.com.
Guests at Divi Dutch Village Beach Resort – Call ext. 793. Hours: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
*Availability and savings on Club Services, Club Recognition and Club Amenities differ by Club Loyalty Benefit level.
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FEATURED MEMBERS
Meet our featured President’s Elite Members for this issue, Derek and Mila Najarian, from Stratham, New Hampshire. Derek has been visiting Aruba since 1994, so he says he’s practically a native! Together with his charming wife Mila, they have made this beautiful island their vacation destination since 2006.
Recently, Derek and Mila became Divi Vacation Club President’s Elite Members, having owned several timeshare weeks at Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort. We had the pleasure of getting to know more about the Najarians, to learn what made them convert their membership and what keeps them coming back to Aruba, year after year. “We were initially approached years ago by a representative on the street,” explains Derek. “We had already researched hotels and locations, and we were impressed with Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort. On our timeshare tour, we appreciated the honest, no-pressure approach of our sales representative, the company’s integrity and the incredibly beautiful location. Believe it or not, what cemented the deal was the price of a Patron Silver Margarita! The price
at the time was $8, when everywhere else was charging $16! That price difference really stood out to us.” Since then, the Najarians have continued to return to Aruba twice a year and decided to make it three times a year in 2017, when they converted their weeks to Pure Points and added the flexibility of a Divi Vacation Club membership. “We lost absolutely nothing and gained everything we needed,” explains Mila. “We can now come in March, September and December, travel mid-week, add more nights to each trip and travel to other Divi resorts and island destinations in the future.” “We’ve never been disappointed in all the years we’ve been coming here,” Mila continues. “Our goal on vacation
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is to relax and unwind from the pressures of work, and about an hour after arriving, we are in our island home, enjoying the beach. We’re greeted by staff who remember our names, and the service is wonderful. We also really enjoy meeting other owners and guests because everyone is always so friendly.” “In our opinion, there’s something for everyone when you own with Divi Vacation Club,” explains Derek. “If you’re looking for a place to call your home away from home, where staff members remember you and deliver consistent service, and if you want flexibility to travel anytime and bring friends and family, then there’s no better investment. More importantly, the company listens to its owners and delivers what they promise.”
ISLAND ADVENTURER Sharing the Caribbean with you and helping you discover everything that makes our islands great!
WHAT TO SEE & DO: Aruba is known as “One Happy Island” for many reasons. The people are friendly, the beaches are immaculate and the average year round temperature is 82 degrees and sunny – perfect for all of the exhilarating adventures that await you on the island. Plus, Aruba is located outside of the hurricane belt, so travel is ideal throughout the year!
close to the surface that’s rich with many different types of coral, angelfish, eel, parrotfish, tang, snapper, goatfish and squirrelfish, just to name a few. For our youngest beachgoers, the most family-friendly beaches on Aruba are Eagle Beach and Palm Beach, with their famous powdery white sand and calm, rolling waves.
On Aruba, there is a perfect beach for every type of beach enthusiast. If you are looking for a quiet, peaceful beach outing, head to Baby Beach at the southernmost tip of the island, only a 45-minute drive from our resorts. For the adventurous beachgoer looking for the perfect place to set sail, Fisherman’s Huts is a world-renowned beach for wind sports and is home to the annual Aruba Hi-Winds windsurfing and kiteboarding competition.
Those seeking a non-beach outing on Aruba have plenty of options ranging from a day of golf at the Links at Divi Aruba to an off-road Jeep adventure through the rugged Aruban countryside, or a sunset cruise aboard a catamaran complete with a fully stocked bar. Don’t forget to shop till you drop! There’s world class shopping throughout the island ranging from high-profile brands to local artisan treasures. For more information and to receive exclusive deals on island activities, stop by our concierge desks at any Divi Resorts lobby.
If you’re on the hunt for the best beach for advanced snorkeling, Arashi Beach is the place for you. Those who brave a shallow section of wavy water will discover a vibrant reef
WHAT TO EAT:
WHAT TO DRINK:
Food can tell you a lot about a country’s culture. When exploring Aruban cuisine, it’s evident that this island is a melting pot of many different cultures and ingredients from around the world. At Divi Resorts, Head Chef Darwin Torres, of Windows on Aruba, focuses on using fresh, wholesome ingredients and exotic spices and herbs, but his favorite item to work with is seafood. “I enjoy cooking all types of food, but if I had to choose one, it would be seafood since it’s packed with great flavor and I enjoy using unique techniques to create and plate my dishes,” says Darwin.
The most refreshing way to enjoy your day in the Aruban sun is with a Balashi Beer, a thirst-quenching pilsner with a rich golden color and crisp finish. Balashi Brewery has been brewing its premium, award-winning beer on Aruba since 1998 at their facility in Oranjestad. It’s the only brewery based in the Southern Caribbean, and the only brewery in the world that makes its beer out of desalinized ocean water. Stop by a Divi Resorts bar on Aruba to cool off with a Balashi Beer, or visit the Balashi Brewery and try it fresh off the production line! Brewery tours are held Monday through Friday. Call the Balashi Brewery at 297-523-6544 for more information.
To experience international flavors with a local twist, reserve your table at any of our Divi Resorts restaurants. Spaces fill up quickly, so visit your concierge to make a reservation.
Dining At Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort:
WHAT TO SAY:
• Pureocean Restaurant, 297-586-6066 ex 7002, open for buffet breakfast, happy hour and dinner, reservations recommended for dinner
The official language of Aruba is Dutch, but the primary vernacular of almost all Arubans is Papiamento. Papiamento is a Creole language that has evolved from older languages including Portuguese, Spanish, Dutch and French. The name Papiamento is derived from the Portuguese word ‘papear’ which means ‘to jabber’ or speak incoherently.
• Purebeach Bar & Restaurant, 297-586-6066, open for lunch, happy hour, tapas and dinner • Puredeli, open for breakfast and lunch Dining At Divi Village Golf & Beach Resort
Here are some common phrases you can use on the island. “Bon suerte!” (Good luck!)
• Windows on Aruba, 297-523-5017, open for dinner and brunch on Sunday, reservations required • Mulligan’s Golf Café, Bar & Restaurant, 297-523-5062, open for breakfast, lunch, happy hour, dinner and late-night snacks
Papiamento Bon Bini Bon tardi Bon nochi Bon dia Te aworo Por fabor Danki Di nada Con ta bai? Hopi bon Mi ta stimabo!
• Seabreeze Restaurant & Sports Bar, 297-583-5000, open for buffet breakfast, lunch, happy hour and dinner • Infinity Grill, open for lunch, happy hour and snacks Dining At Divi Dutch Village Beach Resort • Tiki Pool Bar & Grill, open for breakfast, lunch and happy hour
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English Welcome Good afternoon Good evening Good morning See you later Please Thank you You’re welcome How are you? Very good I love you!
FROM OUR TABLE TO YOURS “I enjoy this recipe because it combines flavors of the sea (fish and langoustines) with flavors of the forest (potatoes and morels), resulting in an explosion of taste and aroma. Finished with sweet, honey-glazed carrots, this dish is perfect for a romantic dinner at home.” -Chef Darwin
Pan Seared Cod Topped with an herb crumble and served with a morel and langoustine fumet, rainbow potatoes and baby carrots glazed in orange and dill.
Ingredients: 7 oz. cod fillet 3 oz. dry morels 3 langoustines (large prawns) 6 rainbow baby potatoes 4 rainbow baby carrots 1 cup fish broth 1 garlic clove 1 tbsp. butter 2 tbsp. fresh basil 1 orange, juiced 1 tbsp. lemon juice 1 tbsp. fresh dill 1 stack of celery ½ cup carrots 1 cup white wine 1 tbsp. fresh parsley 1 tbsp. honey 2 tbsp. panko breadcrumbs ¼ tbsp. fresh oregano ¼ tbsp. fresh thyme 1 tbsp. fresh cilantro 1 pinch onion powder 1 pinch dry oregano
For the Cod Season cod with salt, pepper and lemon juice. Place a pan on high heat and sear cod on both sides for two minutes. Finish cod in the oven at 250 degrees for 7 minutes – be careful not to overcook. Reserve on a plate. For the Sauce In a medium pot, sauté onions, carrots and celery with garlic on medium heat. Add white wine and reduce until only 1/3 of the wine remains. Add fish broth and let simmer until the sauce reduces and gets texture. Strain the sauce and leave simmering. Clean the langoustines and cut them with the morels (morels must be hydrated in water to soften them). Add both ingredients to the sauce. Add butter for texture and finish with basil chiffonade (meaning cut into long, thin strips). For the Rainbow Potatoes Boil the potatoes. Once cooled, dice and sauté in olive oil on medium heat. Flavor with garlic herb butter (butter mixed with minced garlic, onion powder, dry oregano, salt and pepper) and fresh parsley.
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For the Rainbow Carrots Blanch for 2 minutes in boiling water then add to a pan on medium heat with orange juice, lemon juice and honey. Allow carrots to caramelize and finish with fresh chopped dill. For the Crumble Mix panko breadcrumbs with fresh chopped oregano, thyme, cilantro, parsley and basil. To Serve Top cod with the crumble and put it in the oven at low heat. Roast until the crumble is golden brown. Serve on a bed of sauce with rainbow potatoes and carrots.
*Recipe Substitutes: Morels - any dried mushrooms Rainbow Carrots & Potatoes - any type of carrots or potatoes
CHEF DARWIN TORRES Darwin Torres is his name; whipping up decadent dishes is his game, and now, he’s the head chef at Windows on Aruba, bringing his unique culinary skills and Venezuelan flair to the table. We sat down with this talented chef to learn more about his cooking style and his signature homemade hot sauces.
What is your cooking philosophy? The kitchen is an art that requires discipline, passion, dedication and love. You must have this in your mind if you want to cook.
Tell us about your homemade hot sauces. The idea to create hot sauces was born about ten years ago, and my inspiration was a very famous spice sauce in Aruba by Mr. Aurelio Ruiz, that is based on papaya. I started experimenting with herbs, spices and fruits from many regions and countries, creating sauces that were unique in their style and flavor. I now have a collection of 130 original recipes, and I plan on producing them at an industrial level, starting with eight flavors for the American and European markets.
Where are you from and how does that influence your cooking? I was born in Venezuela and that’s where I took my first steps in the kitchen as an amateur, and where I learned to cook creole food. Cooking was always my passion but I decided to make it my profession when I moved to Puerto Rico to study to become a chef. While discovering my culinary roots, I started making dishes with popular Venezuelan ingredients such as sweet peppers, cumin, cilantro and garlic.
What is the best part about being a chef? The best part is being able to create. I feel that through this infinite and delicious art you can express flavors and unique textures that delight diners. Working at Divi Resorts has allowed me the opportunity to work with a great team that always supports my projects and goals. In fact, we are currently working on new dishes with a touch of molecular cuisine for Window on Aruba and we also have several ideas in development for Mulligan’s Golf Café, Bar & Restaurant. Stay tuned for more!
What is your cooking style? My cooking style is a fusion of many flavors. I love combining culinary trends such as Asian food with a touch of Latin cuisine or French dishes with a Caribbean twist. I also tend to use a lot of fresh herbs and spices from many regions of the world including Morocco, India, Italy, France and Latin America. My unique style adds a very particular flavor to the dishes I make.
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NEW & IMPROVED We’re hard at work making improvements and enhancements to our amazing resorts to ensure owners, members and guests have the best experience possible. Put on your hard hats – we’re taking you behind the scenes to see what’s been happening at your favorite resorts!
FEATURED RESORT Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort Enjoy a sneak peek of the beautiful renovations to our units, which included new furniture, drapes, lighting packages, fixtures and fittings, appliances and air conditioners.
OTHER IMPROVEMENTS Divi Village Golf Beach Resort • Golf Villas Phases 3 & 4 renovations to Eagle & Birdie units • Enclosed Mulligan’s Golf Café, Bar & Restaurant with beautiful glass windows for air-conditioned comfort Divi Southwinds Beach Resort • Work continues on upgrades to refresh units, including bathrooms and bedroom furniture, replacing kitchen appliances and adding new drapes and lighting • Refreshed pool area with new tile • Opened a pool bar in the activity center • New elevators Divi Flamingo Beach Resort • Installed new entrance doors and RFID door locks • Upgraded resort landscaping • Replaced signage around the resort • Upgraded resort Wi-Fi
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DIVI CARES BARBADOS
BONAIRE
MUSIC TO OUR EARS Divi Southwinds lovingly refurbished an old piano and donated it to the Barbados International Airport’s Charity Box, where it was placed in the airports departure hall. The piano entertains both locals and visitors alike while giving Barbados charities an opportunity to raise money for local causes. On launch day, Alan Shepherd, of the popular Barbadian Band Spice (Congaline), performed his rendition of “Piano Man.”
SENIORS CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS AT PUREOCEAN Each year, a group of about 180 senior citizens are treated to a festive evening of food, fun and friendly faces. This year, Divi Flamingo hosted the annual event at pureocean, providing the entire venue for the evening. The event was such a success, the group has already booked pureocean for its 2018 holiday celebration.
MAKING WISHES COME TRUE Divi Southwinds is proud to support the Precious Touch Foundation, an organization that supports terminally ill children and their families through financial aid, and fulfills children’s last wishes. Divi Southwinds sponsored the foundation’s recent events with gift vouchers and complimentary stays at the resort. In addition, Divi Southwinds is hosting the organization’s 10th Anniversary Celebration Fundraiser.
THANK YOU! After two hurricanes and a tropical storm struck the island of St. Maarten this past fall, Divi Resorts established a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for staff affected in the aftermath. We’d like to thank all of our owners, members and guests who donated. Your support and kind words meant the world to Little Bay’s staff and to all of us at Divi Resorts.
GOOD NEWS! We are happy to report that our beautiful Divi Little Bay Beach Resort has bounced back and will reopen May 2018. We can’t wait to welcome back our members, owners and guests!
ARUBA Divi's charitable foundation, Divi Impact, plays a big part in philanthropic work throughout the year on Aruba. Here are some of their latest contributions:
GIVING THANKS TO LOCAL SENIORS 160 elderly residents and staff members of Maristella were treated to a festive holiday lunch to brighten their week. Divi employees helped serve the meals, bringing joy and smiles to the faces of these seniors and staff members. BACK TO SCHOOL A strong supporter of local schoolchildren, Divi Impact donated back-to-school supplies to 30 kids in need. In addition, back-to-school supplies and uniforms were also donated to the children of 83 staff members, and six scholarships, given in the form of laptops and school supplies, were also established. PHOENIX FIGHTS CANCER Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort raised $1,500 for the Mary Joan Foundation, an organization that provides information on breast cancer and physical and spiritual wellbeing, by selling t-shirts and cookies to guests at the resort. FOOD FOR THE SOUL Proud to provide food for local organizations in need, Divi Impact donated lunches for FAVI, a local organization that aids the visually impaired and delivered hams and turkeys to a local retirement home for the holidays. ST. MAARTEN STRONG In support of fellow employees devastated by Hurricane Irma, Divi Resorts employees on Aruba donated clothing and food goods to Little Bay’s employees to help them rebuild their lives.
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EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
MEET JAMAAL
The man who proves the grass is always greener on his side, Jamaal Solomon works long hours behind the scenes to ensure Divi’s turf and landscaping is in top-notch condition as Landscape & Golf Course Superintendent on Aruba. From sod to sand, petunias to payroll and everything in-between, Jamaal oversees all things nature, creating a Caribbean-influenced ambiance around the resort. We sat down with Jamaal to learn more about the life of a Landscape & Golf Course Superintendent at Divi Village Golf & Beach Resort on Aruba, and find out why this grounds guru says he hasn’t worked a day in his life. What do you love about Divi Resorts? I have been with Divi Resorts for about nine years now, and I am always fascinated by the fact that Divi continues to evolve and push the proverbial envelope of quality by trendsetting and making strides in the tourism industry. Plus, being able to work outside with nature everyday while doing something you love, is pretty amazing. What are your main responsibilities as Landscape & Golf Course Superintendent? I oversee the total care and maintenance of turf, ornamental plants, shrubs and trees. I direct and assist staff on the replacement, preparation, planting and arrangement of new vegetation, plus the spraying, pruning and trimming of trees and shrubs. In addition, I supervise staff to ensure safe operation and maintenance of mechanical and power equipment. I’m also responsible for the set up of golf tournaments, handling budgets and expenses associated with golf course landscape operations, and working on plans for maintenance and improvement projects. What motivates you to come into work every day? The old adage remains the same as the first day it was spoken, “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” I always tell my friends that since the day I finished college, I have never worked a day in my life. Sure, there are days that are extremely challenging, but those days are always overshadowed by the joy that comes from creating and maintaining beautiful landscapes.
What do you enjoy doing on your days off? In my free time, I enjoy videography, reading, cooking and fishing. I also like catching up with friends and family that I haven’t seen or heard from in a while. That always puts a smile on my face.
What’s your favorite Divi Resorts memory? It would have to be watching dozens of sea turtle hatchlings emerge from our beach early one morning. That was such an amazing sight, and something I’ve always wanted to witness.
What is a hidden gem on the island? I have always found the rugged landscape and rock formations along the northern coast of the island truly fascinating.
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WHEN YOU SMILE, WE SMILE and at Divi Resorts, helping you create memories that will last a lifetime is our top priority! That’s why we created “Divi Smiles,” a campaign that revolves around you and your favorite vacation photos.
Share your Divi vacation memories at smiles@diviresorts.com, tag your photo using #divismiles or submit online at www.diviresorts.com/smiles.htm for a chance to be featured!
Whether you’re cozying up to our Divi Diva, Gizmo, or striking a pose on the beach, we want to see and share your best Divi smiles!
DON’T FORGET TO FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA!
90-DAY CARIBBEAN GIVEAWAY Congratulations to the lucky winners of our 90-Day Caribbean Giveaway who won amazing prizes ranging from free week stays to a family fun pack, top-notch electronics and more! If you missed out on the fun, be sure to follow us on social media for our next exciting giveaway!
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@DIVIRESORTS #DISCOVERDIVI #DIVIRESORTS
SPRING SPECIALS ARUBA DIVI LINKS* www.divilinks.com Located at Divi Village Golf & Beach Resort, 9-Hole Golf Course, Play a Round in Paradise
EVA’S BOUTIQUE www.facebook.com/evaboutiquearuba Located at Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort, Upscale Fashion & Swimwear • Buy 2, Get 1 50% Off – Purchase 2 bathing suits and your 3rd bathing suit will be 50% off.
• Playing Lessons – $150 – 9 holes for two, includes club rentals and green fee. • Weekly Tournaments – $75 – Wednesdays & Fridays at 2 p.m., includes club rentals, shoes, sleeve of balls, two drinks and prizes.
BONAIRE DIVI DIVE BONAIRE www.diviresorts.com/bonaire-dive.htm Located at Divi Flamingo Beach Resort & Casino, Special Vacation Offers, Rates as Low as $1,042/person
• Welcome Clinic – $10/person – Happening Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8:30 a.m., Wednesdays and Fridays at 2 p.m., Saturdays at 11 a.m. and Sundays at 12 p.m., don’t miss your a chance to learn from the pros.
• 7-Night, 2-Tank Dive with Daily Breakfast – Includes accommodations, daily breakfast, airport transfers, daily 2-tank morning boat dive, unlimited tanks for shore diving (transportation not included), weights and weight belt.
PURE INDULGENCE* www.purespaaruba.com Located at Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort, Ranked #1 Spa in Palm Beach, Brand New Menu
• 7-Night Unlimited Shore Dive & Drive – Includes accommodations, daily breakfast, truck rental, six days of unlimited use of tanks for shore diving and a welcome cocktail.
• Merlot Massage – $94 – Drift away as your skin is treated to a super serum made with resveratrol from winery grapes, healing organic gotu kola extract and green tea’s full of abundant antioxidants. Following this antioxidant infusion, you’ll relax into a Blushing Agave Oil full body massage with organic sunflower seed oil and blue agave leaf extract.
ST. MAARTEN INDULGENCE BY THE SEA SPA* www.spastmaarten.com Located at Divi LIttle Bay Beach Resort, Voted Best Spa in St. Maarten, Brand New Menu
KEVIN’S JEWELERS www.kevinjewelersaruba.com Located in the Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort Lobby, Weekly Drawings
• Caribbean Holiday Escape – $193 – A creamy coconut holiday soak puts you in the mood to relax as it moisturizes and soothes your tired feet. Next, a fine grain pineapple-coconut sugar and shea butter scrub whips you into smoothness. You’ll be ready for a night under the stars after a light, sweet cream body milk lotion application that seals in the softness.
• Free Sterling Silver Earrings/Pendant of your choice with a purchase of $150 or more. • Spend $200 or more to receive a coupon for a special weekly drawing to win a precious Tanzanite ring. Join Kevin’s Jewelers for a “Wine & Cheese” party at the store every Friday from 4 to 5 p.m. as they announce the lucky winner! *Offer valid until June 22, 2018.
*Visit or call our concierge to book your tee time or spa treatment.
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CROSSWORD
ACROSS 17 Divi’s kids club: “_____” of the Caribbean
12 The name of Divi Little Bay Beach Resort’s resident parrot
2 Major music festival held on Aruba each May
14 You don’t have to dive to see underwater life; you can also do this
3 After a round of golf, stop by this Divi restaurant on Aruba
15 How many colors does the official Divi Resorts logo have?
5 Capital city of Aruba
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7. Aruba, 11. Bon Bini, 12. Gizmo,
10 St. Maarten’s Carnival season starts in this month
• Across: 4. pureocean, 6. Iguana,
20 Namesake of the only Divi Resort on St. Maarten
9 Play tennis here
14. Snorkel, 15. Four, 16. Sunscreen,
19 The social media hashtag for Divi Resorts
8 Swim here for a change from the ocean
ANSWERS
19. Discover Divi, 20. Little Bay,
16 Don’t forget this at the beach!
18 How many Caribbean islands are home to at least one Divi Resort?
21. Bonaire
1 The island known as the culinary capital of the Caribbean
3. Mulligan’s, 5. Oranjestad, 8. Pool,
DOWN
11 “Welcome” in the Aruba and Bonaire language of Papiamento
• Down: 1. St. Maarten, 2. Soul Beach,
7 Known as the “One Happy Island”
13 Jimmy Buffett likes these — and walks in the rain
9. Court, 10. April, 13. Piña Coladas,
6 Island lizard
21 The island home of Divi Flamingo Beach Resort & Casino
17. Treasures, 18. Five
4 Dine right on the beach at this Divi restaurant
2018 EVENTS CALENDAR APRIL-JUNE ARUBA’S SOUL BEACH MUSIC FESTIVAL
ARUBA
www.aruba.com/things-to-do
APRIL Easter Celebrations Experience Aruba’s Easter traditions, including beach camping during Lent, egg hunts and much more. Copa Cees Bossers Tournament An annual international beach soccer tournament, this is an exhilarating allday event for sports fans of all ages. King’s Day Celebration Celebrate the Dutch King’s birthday with sports competitions, kite flying contests and family-friendly festivals. 58th International Boulevard Race This 10k is Aruba’s most popular race, drawing more than 200 competitors from around the world. MAY Soul Beach Music Festival Held during Memorial Day weekend, this festival features soul and R&B music by well-known artists, as well as comedy shows and all-night beach parties. Last year’s featured artists include Usher, Mary J. Blige, Faith Evans, The Roots and more. For more details, visit www.soulbeach.net. JUNE Dera Gai (St. John’s Day) Translating to “burying of the rooster,” Dera Gai is an annual harvest festival and cultural celebration featuring traditional song and dance in remembrance of the apostle San Juan Bautista.
Aruba International Marathon Runners will see the best of Aruba during the inagural Aruba Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K and 5K, where they will run along a course that takes them to Palm Beach, the famous California Lighthouse and Eagle Beach. For more details, visit www.arubainternationalmarathon.com. 32nd Aruba International Olympic Triathlon Athletes from around the globe compete in this triathlon beginning at Eagle Beach. Beginners can also test their endurance on a separate course. For more details, visit www.arubatriathlon.com. Aruba Summer Festival 2018 One of the largest Latin music festivals in the Caribbean, the 4th edition of this two-day festival features exciting artists including Ozuna, Nacho, Victor Manuelle, Fonseca, Eddy Herrera and Felipe Pelaez. For more details, visit www.arubasmf.com. 32nd Annual Aruba Hi-Winds Aruba’s trade winds are perfect for the largest amateur windsurfing event in the Caribbean. Exciting windsurfing and kiteboarding competitions are held off Hadicurari Beach. The event also features five days of entertainment, beach parties and activities. For more details, visit www.hiwindsaruba.com.
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BARBADOS
www.visitbarbados.org/things-to-do
APRIL Sugar & Rum Pop Up Village & Street Party For one day only on April 1st, St. Lawrence Gap, the location of Divi Southwinds Beach Resort, is transformed into a cultural fair featuring local products, arts & crafts and diverse indigenous experiences. The fair culminates into a lively street party with a conga line. Vujaday Music Festival This new music festival features a lineup of house and techno artists, internationally renowned DJs and local favorites. For more details, visit www.vujadaymusicfestival.com. Barbados Reggae Festival This annual festival includes a lively beach party, a celebration of vintage reggae and tons of top-notch musical entertainment. For more details, visit www.thebarbadosreggaefestival.com. Heroes Day This national holiday celebrates historical figures recognized for their contributions to the island’s culture and government. Sir Garry Sobers Festival of Golf International Tournament This premier tournament attracts players from around the world for four days of world-class golf. For more details, visit www.sirgarrysobersfestivalofgolf.com.
SEGWAY POLO IN PARADISE MAY Barbados Turf Club Horse Racing The Barbados Turf Club kicks off its 2018 summer season with several races held at the Garrison Savannah. For more details, visit www. babadosturfclub.org. Whit Monday This national holiday is celebrated the Monday after the Christian religious feast of Pentecost. Segway Polo in Paradise A traditional sport with a modern twist! You don’t need a horse to compete in this polo tournament that features players from around the world vying for the esteemed Barbados Cup 2018. For more details, visit www.segwaypoloclubbarbados.org. Gospelfest Barbados The Caribbean’s premiere gospel music and arts festival, Gospelfest Barbados is celebrating its 26th year with several events including choral music, jazz, comedy, dance, theatre and even cricket. For more details, visit www.barbadosgospelfest.com. Barbados Restaurant Week Sample a wide range of authentic Bajan cuisine at local restaurants during Barbados Restaurant Week. For details, visit www.barbadosrestaurantweek.com. JUNE SOL Rally Barbados Known as the most dynamic three days of rally driving on Barbados, SOL Rally Barbados attracts drivers from around the world to go head to head in this exciting competition. For more details, visit www.rallybarbados.bb.
BARBADOS TURF CLUB HORSE RACING
Crop Over Festival This six-week festival invites locals and tourists alike to celebrate this 200-yearold tradition honoring the end of sugar cane season. Kicking off at the end of June, this festival features dusk till dawn parties, arts & crafts markets and culinary-driven street fares. For details, visit www.barbadoscropoverfestival.com.
BONAIRE
www.tourismbonaire.com
APRIL Simadan (Harvest) Festival Rincon This traditional celebration of the growing season’s harvest takes place on Easter Monday. King’s Day Witness an official ceremony to honor the Dutch King on his birthday, followed by a range of local celebrations. MAY Bonaire Dive Week Experience exciting guided dive excursions, seminars, workshops and other activities recognizing Bonaire’s reputation as one of the world’s premier dive locations. For more details, visit www.bonairediveweek.nl. JUNE Cultural Market This market brings together arts & crafts, local food, educational presentations and live music to celebrate Bonaire’s unique island culture.
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ST. MAARTEN APRIL 5th Annual Underwater Easter Egg Hunt Celebrate Easter while diving into warm tropical waters as you hunt for Easter eggs to win big prizes. Swimmers and snorkelers of all ages are invited to join in the fun on Easter Monday. Plus, all proceeds from this event go to the St. Maarten Nature Foundation. St. Maarten Carnival Season Experience Carnival on the Dutch side of the island, with thrilling parades, colorful festivals, parties, pageants and more. For details, visit www.sxm-carnival.com. MAY Fish Day This quirky event celebrates all things fish with cooking demonstrations, tastings, cultural entertainment and more! Bring the family along for a day of savoring delicious seafood, listening to local music and learning more about the fisherman culture. JUNE Billfish Tournament This deep sea fishing tournament is one of the largest in the Caribbean and features locals and teams from nearby islands, all competing to win big prizes. For more details, visit www.billfish-tournament.com.
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