This was our 3rd trip to the Divi in 4 years. While we had a fabulous time and
love Aruba, we were disappointed with the service and upkeep at the Divi. We were
fortunate to receive the room I had requested with Lisa (lcusson@setarnet.aw) - room 523 in Vista 2. The
room is larger and nicer than the others, and has the supreme advantage of being closest
to the sea with nothing to obstruct the gorgeous view. Here are pictures of the room and
view from the balcony.
The views of the beach, which was never crowded between the
Tamarijn and Divi and on a walk all the way down to the high rise
hotels, show just how beautiful and clean the white, powdery sand was. The beach was
"raked" every couple of days.
The changes that we noticed since our last visit in 2000,
included a general decline in overall attention to detail. For example, there
were numerous loose tiles on the pool deck which were quite hazardous. The eco-cup
returns, which are round table tops set
around the beach and walkways to collect cups for return to the bar, were not retrieved
every day. This meant unsightly overflowing cup returns. Foot showers to rinse sand off
your feet after a visit to the beach were broken. Calls to the service desk for bellhops
were ignored. The food and drinks were satisfactory, but we were rarely greeted by wait
staff or bartenders. It was not uncommon to wait 10 minutes at a bar before being
acknowledged. Yes, we tipped and were polite, but it didn't seem to matter. The staff gave
the overall impression of apathy, which was a significant change from the happy, friendly
staff we recalled. At meals, no one ever said, "Good morning, are you enjoying your
stay?" or other pleasantries. We had no conversations with any staff members during
our entire week. After a couple of days, we realized that as much as we loved the island
and the low rise section of beach, we would probably not return to the Divi. Therefore, we
purchased a time-share at the Phoenix Aruba. We spent a lot of time around the
pool, which is so conveniently located near the bars and the beach. There was some
entertainment (bingo, tourist trivia) but the staff member running the games had no sense
of humor or much personality.
We had an
exceptionally great dinner at Madame Jeanettes. The recommendations from the bulletin
board were really accurate. Most tables are outdoors on a rock base (no high-heels!) and
there are candles and twinkling white lights all over! It was beautiful and the service
was excellent. I had a superb steak, shrimp and lobster. The sea bass was also excellent.
We rented a car and went exploring to find the Natural Bridge. This is
not well marked, so prepare for a challenging drive!
We drove through San
Nicholas several times before we found Charlies' Bar - a must! I won't
spoil your first impression, so I'll only share a photo of the outside of the bar. What a
unique place!
We revisited the pet
cemetary, overlooking the sea. Quite remarkable, and not difficult to find. It's
just east of the Baby Beach area. Numerous markers and graves for beloved
pets of all kinds.
Our week was just what we were looking for - perfect
weather, relaxation, stupendous beaches that you could walk for hours, and sunsets we'll
always remember. We love Aruba and will return for years to come.
