Over the last two decades, Bonaire has consistently ranked as the finest snorkeling and scuba diving destination in the Caribbean. A major reason for this prominence is the island's diligent stewardship of its marine resources -- all of the waters off Bonaire's coast have been legally protected since 1979, and it shows.
But there is plenty more to do here. The unusually steady trade winds that wash over the island create ideal conditions for world-class windsurfing, and the sere beauty of its semi-desert landscape is home to an outlandish assortment of wildlife.
Iguanas meditatively toast themselves atop the desert rock formations of Washington Slagbaai, while vast orange-pink clouds of flamingoes drift across bone-white salt flats.
Divi-divi trees bend into surreal sculptures of the wind itself, and towering cacti stand as reminders of the Caribbean's diverse ecology.
Island Info
Form of Government.
Bonaire is part of the Netherlands Antilles which consists of Curaçao, Saba, St. Eustatius, St.Maarten.
The island governments look after their own affairs, while the Dutch Kingdom looks after foreign affairs.
A governor appointed by the Queen represents the Netherlands on the islands.
Population
Approximately 11.500 inhabitants.
Currency
Antillean guilders and US Dollar. (One US$ equals appr. 1.78 NAf)
Climate
Annual averages: Temperature: 82 F (28 C)
Rainfall: 22" (56mm)
Water temperature: 80 F (27 C)
Customs Regulations
A visitor must have a valid passport and valid return or continuing ticket. US citizens require a valid passport or a birth certificate and photo identification.
Languages
Dutch and Papiamentu are the official languages. English and Spanish are widely spoken.
Geography
Approximately 112 square miles (290 km2). Located 30 miles (56km) east from Curacao ( Appr. 120 miles from Venezuela ). Brandaris Hill is the highest elevation at 784 feet (241 m).
Driving License
International and foreign are accepted.
Electricity
110 - 130 volts AC (50 cycles)
Drinking water
Desalinated sea water
Time
Atlantic Standard time
National Holidays
New Years Day; Carnival (February); Good Friday; Easter Monday; Queens birthday (April 30th); Labor Day (May 1st); Ascension Day, Bonaire Day (September 6th); Christmas Day, Boxing Day (December 26th) |
