Occidental or Divi AI

[lovelife]

Hello All:

I have read reviews about the Divi AI and how beautiful a beach wedding would be. I have recently talked to friends that stayed at the Occidental for their honeymoon and they said it was amazing. I would just like a comparison of the two if anyone has stayed at both places. Which one is better for "weddingmoon"? (Just fyi, it will just be my FI and I and we definitely want an AI).

Your input would be most helpful. Thanks!!

[Arubalisa]

Have your friends stayed anywhere on Eagle or Druif Beaches to be able to compare to Palm Beach? This may be a major factor in the decision.

Did they love Aruba or Palm Beach or the Occidental or all 3?

The high rise resorts are located on Palm Beach. The low rise resorts are located on Eagle/ Manchebo/Druif Beaches. There are some pretty drastic differences between the areas.

Eagle/ Manchebo/Druif Beaches can have some waves, at other times it will be dead calm and lake like. Water all over the island is blue, warm and refreshing. From Eagle Beach to Druif Beach, you will find wide, long and very white beaches. Because of its width and length it will be less crowded than Palm Beach. There is less boat activity, so the water is clearer. Thought admittedly, there are other islands such as the Bahamas which do have clearer water. The water clarity in Aruba varies from day to day but as divers I can say it is rarely "perfect". The only other negative about Eagle Beach is that there are some Jet Ski operators at the north end of the Amsterdam Manor property. This would not be a factor at the Divi.

Aruba is a windy island with average tradewinds of 17 mph. A positive of Palm Beach is that it is less windy here because the wind is blocked by most of the resort's buildings. Palm Beach is also long and white, but narrower and the resorts are larger. The beach here is more crowded, but in my mind, crowding is relative.

If you grew up at the Jersey shore like I did, Palm Beach will not be that bad. Overall the area is much more congested in comparison to Eagle Beach. Street side along Palm Beach there is a number of restaurants, shops and bars. If activities are a must have within walking distance you will have everything you need right in the Palm Beach area.

Let me also add however, that if you are staying at an all inclusive resort, except for tours, how much would you be wandering outside of the resort for entertainment or nightlife when it is already including with your AI package?

Within walking distance on Palm Beach you will also find seven casinos at the following resorts- Marriott Stellaris, Holiday Inn SunSpree, Hyatt, Occidental, Radisson, Riu and Westin.

For quiet, less crowds, wider beaches then Eagle/ Manchebo/Druif Beaches would be your choice. If you were staying here without an all inclusive package, a rental car would most likely be a good idea. This will give you transportation to dinner each evening as well as shopping trips into downtown Oranjestad and a day of driving around the island and doing some sightseeing.

Each has its trade offs, you would just need to decide what your priorities are- beach or accommodations.

If your wedding ceremony is also being held in Aruba, unless you are particular to the wedding planner at one resort vs. the other, keep in mind, you must marry in the civil ceremony in downtown Oranjestad. This is regardless of where you stay and regardless of where you stay you can have your romance/blessing ceremony on any of the many public beaches.

No matter where you stay, for relaxation, blue waters, great beaches and perfect weather, Aruba is a great choice.

For a true "beach vacation", the low rise area is a better choice. For a combination of activities, nightlife (outside the resort) and great beach, the high rise area of Palm Beach would be perfect for you.

To get a feel for the resorts themselves, I would read reviews here and on other sites:

Occidental Reviews
Occidental Restaurants

Divi Reviews

If you are considering the Divi, I would also read the reviews on the Tamarijn. Guests staying at the Divi have full use of all of the facilities and amenities, including restaurants, at both the Divi and Tamarijn. Tamarijn is also a nice consideration if you are looking for a room directly on the beach and did not want to pay the $$$ for the oceanfront room at the Divi. The Divi does have 4 different room categories.

Tamarijn Reviews
Tamarijn Restaurants

[lovelife]

Wow, this is such great detail! And really helps someone like me who has never been to Aruba. I would say we are definitely looking to relax and enjoy a true beach vacation. I think the AI would be perfect b/c we wouldn't have to venture out just to eat. As far as nightlife/activities--I think that would be a great option for a couple of nights. Is Palm Beach within walking distance of the Divi AI/Eagle Beach? Or is there public transportation available?

[Arubalisa]

If you are looking for a true beach vacation the Divi would be perfect. You can easily get to Palm Beach via bus or taxi. It is about 2 1/2 - 3 miles from the Divi.

I have some photos of the Divi here.
Dh and I really liked the look of their Vista Building rooms.

I am sure you have read them already but there are Divi wedding reviews at
http://www.aruba.com/forum/tags/wedding%20divi.html

Aruba Weddings For You receives many positive comments.

[lovelife]

Thanks again!!

[shariuno]

just my opinion but i think if your looking for a romantic weddingmoon it would have to be the quite end at at druif beach (divi). it's much less crowded than palm beach - ideal for romance! enjoy

[lovelife]

Sounds perfect. Thanks, shariuno.

[Bryan Morris]

WOW, Arubalisa said it all. I second her motion.

[Kenny]

Lisa said it all!