I was a bit nervous, too, after seeing some of the reviews. But the gamble more than paid off. I went with my husband and 18 month old son. We stayed in a 1-bed apt looking over the pool. It was great. There were some tacky fake plants, it's true, but apart from that the place was very nice indeed, freshly painted with a cheerful yellow colour, nice oak kitchen. We cooked there a couple of times each day (the maids actually washed the dishes for us!), and we felt very much at home. The beach was really lovely. The pool area was nice (I've seen better and I've seen worse), clean and in decent shape. The staff were friendly although overly laid back - despite repeated prior requests our room wasn't ready when we got there and we had to shower etc. in a different room until it was ready (about 3-4 hours). But that, I think, is more of a Caribbean ting than something specific to this hotel - you've just got to go with the flow! We didn't eat at the restaurant, so I can't comment on that.

What may be the issue with this hotel is the beachfront rooms. They did look pretty shabby from the beach. I decided to stay in the inland part of the hotel after reading the reviews about the beachfront rooms, so take my advice and do the same. I'm not sure the view over the pool is worth it, though, so you could save some money and stay in a garden view.

Enjoy!

Sometimes it makes me wonder why people actually,go away,as i have been to Barbados 14 odd times over the last 16 years i have stayed at many places ,silver sands,sandy lane villa and divi southwinds etc.i have read many reviews on divi,but can not believe the people that have slaged it of and Barbados and even more important the Bajan people,they can not be going to the same island that i have been going to.Divi is a three star it is not Sandy lane.the staff i have met over the years are great allways do more than they have needed for us
perhaps it may be your attitude to them that that may need to change,in any hoptel there will allways be something that could be bettter,but it anoys me when they say there is not much to do.they are next to st lawrence gap,most of the people that have slated it have not mentioned Oistens,jolly roger the ship inn
well that is my moan i will be back in Barbados on christmas day and yes it will be at divi southwinds,so Charles (beach bar) get the beers ready
steve cowling uk

My daughter got married in Barbados in October. The family has just returned from this holiday. Some guests stayed at theTime Out at the Gap. My daughter at the South Palm,the rest in the Divi. After reading the reviews already posted I was beginning to wish I had booked the South Palm Hotel like the bride and groom.

My fears disappeared as soon as we arrived. The rooms were spacious, clean and fully functional. The staff were helpful and friendly nothing was too much trouble.

There was only a small area where there was building work, this was the construction of new outdoor toilets next to the tennis courts.

It is obvious that this hotel has undergone major refurbishment. Our rooms, the pools, the gardens, children's play area were all of a high standard, extremely clean and well maintained. The rest of the guests who stayed elsewhere thought that our accommodation was by far the best. The Divi is situated in the heart of the Gap. Across a guarded road to a beautiful beach. Jocelyn's Beach bar served excellent lunches. All our party met here for lunch.

This hotel is perfect for families, with lots of activities planned each day. As a semi retired couple my husband and I thought it was perfect it was quiet and yet minutes away from bars and restaurants.

It is no wonder that this hotel is used by a very well known airline for its staff on stopover stays.

I stayed at the Divi Southwinds in early October. The rooms are quite roomy. We had a 1BR Suite with a full kitchen. Upon arrival, I was missing an iron and my safe deposit box never worked even after maintenance looked at it.

I understand that the property went through some major renovations and they are going to go through another phase soon. The property needs a facelift. It was quite dreary.

The breakfast buffet was very lacking. What should have started at 7:30am typically didn't start until later. This became a problem for many.guests who had time restrictions.

The good aspect is location. You are right down the street within walking distance to St Lawrence Gap where many restaurants, bars, and clubs are located. The beach is across the street where the property has a beach bar with plenty of beach chairs. The water is beautiful.

It's an okay moderately priced hotel if you need a place to lay your head. But if you're looking for a "resort" type environment with ample activities and amenities, this will not provide it. I'd be interested to see how this hotel flourishes after the other renovations that are scheduled.