Wednesday, January 8, 2025 After 34 years of transformative leadership at Divi & Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusives, John Callaghan officially retired on December 31, 2024. A driving force behind the evolution of these iconic resorts, Callaghan’s legacy is marked by innovation, resilience, and a commitment to excellence, shaping the properties into world-renowned destinations cherished by travelers across the globe. Callaghan’s journey began in 1991 when he encountered the Divi and Tamarijn properties, then on the brink of closure due to bankruptcy.
At the time, he was with Doral Hotels, which had decided to exit the hospitality sector. Seizing the opportunity, Callaghan rallied a group of investors, secured financing, and acquired the struggling properties. With a visionary approach, he pioneered Aruba’s first all-inclusive resort concept, revolutionizing hospitality on the island.
His guest-centric culture fostered exceptional loyalty, with many guests returning year after year. To realize his ambitious vision, Callaghan partnered with Alex Nieuwmeyer, a food and beverage expert from Doral Park Avenue, to complement his own strengths in sales and marketing. Together, they elevated the resorts’ guest experiences, expanding culinary offerings and enhancing service quality.
After Nieuwmeyer’s passing in 2021, Callaghan honored his partner’s memory by pledging to retire when the time was right—a promise he fulfilled at the close of 2024. Throughout his tenure, Callagha.
