BONAIRE

Bonaire, nestled in the Dutch Caribbean, captivates visitors with its natural wonders. Renowned as one of the world’s top diving destinations, it offers unparalleled shore diving opportunities—simply walk into the water and explore vibrant coral reefs. But Bonaire’s true gem lies beneath the surface: teeming marine life just a few feet from the shoreline. Add to that magical sunsets, the charming capital city of Kralendijk, and you have an unforgettable experience waiting to unfold.

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The best time to visit Bonaire is from May to October. During these months, you’ll find fewer crowds and bargain hotel rates compared to the popular winter season. Bonaire’s climate during this period is characterized by dry and warm weather, making it an ideal time for travelers. Whether you’re a scuba diving enthusiast or simply seeking a tranquil escape, these months offer the perfect conditions to explore this captivating Caribbean island. 

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Here are some of the best must-do attractions:

Diving and Snorkeling: Explore the underwater world by diving or snorkeling. Bonaire’s coral reefs are teeming with colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures.

Visit Klein Bonaire: Take a boat tour to Klein Bonaire, an uninhabited island with beautiful beaches. It’s a great spot for swimming and relaxation.

Salt Pier: Visit the iconic Salt Pier, where you can snorkel and observe marine life around the pilings. The pier is also a popular spot for underwater photography.

Slave Huts at Orange Pan: Explore the historical slave huts, which were once used by salt workers. These huts offer insight into Bonaire’s past.

Washington Slagbaai National Park: Embark on a 4WD tour of the national park, where you can see diverse landscapes, wildlife, and stunning vistas.

Flamingo Birdwatching: Bonaire is home to a large population of flamingos. Head to the salt flats to observe these elegant birds in their natural habitat.

Cave Tour: Discover Bonaire’s caves with a local guide. These limestone formations are fascinating to explore.

Catamaran Tours: Sail the high seas on a catamaran tour, enjoying the Caribbean breeze and crystal-clear waters.

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Here are some must-try foods:

Pastechis: These flaky, half-moon-shaped pastries are stuffed with meats, shrimp, or poultry and deep-fried until they’re crisp and golden. They’re available all day and make for a perfect snack while shopping or exploring the island.

Guiambo: A signature dish on the island, guiambo is a soup made with okra and plenty of local seafood. It bears a resemblance to gumbo, so if you’ve tried the Louisiana version, this will be an interesting comparison.

Sopi Piska: Loaded with the best local fish and shellfish, this fish soup is a must-try for seafood lovers. The flavorful broth makes it a delightful choice.

Sopi Kadushi: Made from the “candle cactus,” this traditional soup is flavored with local seafood or cured meats. It’s a unique culinary experience that reflects Bonaire’s arid climate and rugged interior.

Piska Kriyoyo: Grilled or pan-seared fish prepared Creole-style, served with a spicy tomato sauce over rice or funchi. Lionfish, an invasive species, is often used in this dish, contributing to local ecosystem preservation.

Kabritu Stobá: Goats thrive on the dry and rocky island, making goat meat a signature ingredient. Kabritu Stobá is a flavorful goat stew that you won’t want to miss.

tips

Here are some essential tips to make your experience memorable:

Currency: Bonaire’s official currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD), which has been in use since January 1, 2011. You can easily find ATMs around the island if you need to withdraw cash. These ATMs allow you to withdraw money from your account in U.S. dollars.

Flights to Bonaire: You can fly directly into Bonaire (Flamingo) International Airport in the capital city of Kralendijk. From North America, airlines like United Airlines, Delta Airlines, and American Airlines offer direct flights.If you’re flying from Europe, consider direct flights from Amsterdam with TUI or KLM. Alternatively, you can fly to Bonaire via Aruba or Curacao for more affordable options.

Prices: You might notice that prices on Bonaire are higher than similar items elsewhere. This is because of import duties and taxes. However, it’s worth noting that the Dutch Caribbean has some of the lowest import tariffs in the region.

Explore Nature Reserves: Visit the stunning nature reserves, such as Washington Slagbaai National Park.

Windsurfing and Kite Surfing: Take advantage of the island’s breezy conditions for water sports.