Official Name: Bonaire Capital: Kralendijk Flag: Population: 14,006 Language: Dutch, Papiamentu, English Currency: Netherlands Antillean guilder (ANG) Government Website: www.infobonaire.com Chamber of Commerce: www.curacao-chamber.an Emergency Info:

Bonaire, or as it’s called in Papiamentu, Bon Bini, is the Caribbean’s best protected little gem. Lying about 50-miles north of Venezuela, Bonaire’s reputation for unbeatable snorkeling and diving experiences can be largely credited to the fact that it’s coasts have been protected by law since 1979. Thanks to this, its coastline continues to be among the purest, most valuable underwater adventures in the world. In addition to underwater marvels, visitors can experience remarkable windsurfing conditions thanks to the unusually steady trade winds of Bonaire.

The people of Bonaire are a richly spirited mix of ethnicities. Different influences from around the world have merged together creating the truly unique Bonairean culture. Song and Dance play an important part of the cultural richness of the island, from the small percussive instrument “Chapi” which is made from a metal hoe, to the Bari dance performed during the harvest festival.

It’s nearly impossible to mention the people of Bonaire without mentioning the islands national bird, especially since there are actually more of them on the island than people. The Pink Flamingo inhabit the island in vast flocks of pink-orange feathers, making Bonaire one of only four places in the world where Flamingo colonies breed. You can see the pride of the Flamingo in many aspects of Bonaire, even their airport which has been painted pink.

Although the Flamingos are very plentiful on the island, they are also incredibly sensitive to noise and will flee quickly at the sight of people. In order to see these magnificent creatures, you must go to Pekelmeer Sanctuary located on the south side of the island, or Washington Slagbaai National Park located in the north. At either one, visitors should keep their distance being careful not to disturb the birds… in other words, make sure you bring a camera with a zoom.

Not surprisingly, Bonaire is a favorite among bird watchers. But not just for the Flamingos; over 170 species of birds inhabit the Island. The best places to see the variety of birds, although dependant upon weather and migration patterns, are Goto Lake, Pekelmeer, Cai and Dos Pos.

Washington-Slagbaai National Park, all 13,500 acres of it, is a perfect place to explore the landscape of the Island. With a wide scope of trails, spots for diving and snorkeling, and some unbeatable views, it’s absolutely worth a trip.

Playa Bengè is arguably some of the best snorkeling locations in Bonaire. Some of the Caribbean’s most attractive and exotic fish frequent the beaches coral reefs and divers enjoy them through prime visibility. For the best visibility on the Islands, the waters at Playa Funchi on the west coast have unreal clarity, and no virtually no current making it suitable for even small children. Boca Slagbaai, south of Playa Funchi is ideal for swimming (due to lack of coral) and sunbathing.

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