Friday, July 03, 2009

African Dust Can Affect Caribbean Corals

African dust has been implicated in various negative effects on coral reefs in the Caribbean.  The dust brings in iron, which may be driving an increase in algae growth, and it may also be bringing pesticide dust, other airborne pollution, or even new coral diseases.

This dust is not new; it has always been around, forming an important source of fertile soil in the Caribbean.  But with increasing desertification in Africa, as well as increasing use of pesticides and herbicides in agriculture in that area of the world, it certainly bears attention now.

A number of operational products have been generated in the past few years to monitor African dust and minerals transported across the Atlantic and beyond. These aerosols are transported within a unique and detectable air mass, termed the Saharan Air Layer. The Saharan Air Layer, or SAL, is a relatively deep layer of very warm, dry air originating over the Sahara, and typically extends from about 5,000 feet often to as high as 18,000-20,000 feet.

The SAL circulates around the periphery of the cyclonic circulations over the African continent that develop into tropical waves, and then moves out ahead of the tropical waves as they exit the west coast.  Jason Dunion and the folks at NOAA HRD and Chris Veldon of CIMSS (U of Wisc-Madison) among other colleagues, have developed a satellite product, using channel differencing, to detect these very dry air masses moving across the Atlantic (view data by clicking here).

This product depicts areas of dry air, not the dust/minerals itself. Dust content suspended within the SAL can further be defined using NOAA aerosol thickness products found here.

An animation of the SAL imagery, as well as the static optical thickness product, can reveal the SAL and dust circulating cyclonically around the vortices or broad areas of low pressure associated with tropical waves exiting African and transiting the Atlantic. It is the mid-level steering currents across the Atlantic that influence the trajectory of the SAL and dust, and this can very inter-seasonally, as well as annually. 2006 and 2007 were dominated by a strong and broad high pressure ridge across the Atlantic, and a strong mid-level African Easterly Jet that transported much SAL and much dust across the basin.

These strong mid-level winds also act to induce increased wind shear in the vertical, which has a negating effect on tropical cyclone development, and also influence the strength of the low level and potentially surface wind flow across the Atlantic.  Prolonged periods of strong trade winds across the Atlantic produce upwellings and thus cooler surface water temperatures. The dust has been shown to reflect incoming solar radiation, which also has a slight limiting effect on surface warming. All of these factors combine cumulatively to make tropical cyclone formation more difficult to occur; in general, the stronger the jet, the more SAL and associated dust is transported.

The SAL and dust typically do not produce a continuous plume or stream, but generally are seen in more broken broad zones exiting Africa with and ahead of each tropical wave, every 2.5 to 6 days.  Hundreds of millions of tons of African dust are transported annually from the Sahara and Sahel to the Caribbean and southeastern U.S.  Various peaks in the dust record, at Barbados and elsewhere in the western Atlantic, coincide with benchmark events on reefs throughout the Caribbean.

The mechanisms by which dust may affect reefs include deposition of nutrients or pollutants that may:

1) Interfere with a coral’s immune system, making it more susceptible to disease pathogens
2) Interfere with some stage in reproduction (gamete production, fertilization, settling, larval survival)
3) Induce pathogenicity in a microorganism in the reef environment
4) Trigger a rapid increase in the number of pathogenic microorganisms
5) Fuel macro-algae or phytoplankton growth, as has been shown for Red Tides in the Gulf of Mexico
6) Directly deposit pathogenic microorganisms (e.g., Aspergillus sydowii, the fungus that causes sea fan disease throughout the western Atlantic)

Additional information about this phenomenon can be found by clicking here. (Source:  VOMIL, NOAA-NWS, USGS)

Wednesday, July 01, 2009

There’s Sizzlin’ Summer Savings Available Now on Trips to Bonaire

Summer’s here and it’s time for fun! The savings are sizzlin’, so take advantage of the deals available now on dive vacations to Bonaire! (All prices are quoted in US dollars).

Caribbean Adventures World Dive is offering a 10% discount on any published rate for Belmar Bonaire Dive and Drive package, or 5% off any Caribbean Club package. All group members receive resort T-shirts. For more information, visit www.worlddive.com, or call 1-800-433-3483.

H2O tours and Bonaire Seaside Apartments are offering the 6th & 7th night free! Book your 7 night dive package for travel from June 20 through December 18, 2009. Package includes:
-- 7 night accommodations
-- 6 days unlimited shore diving
-- Tanks, weights and belts
-- Rental truck
-- Hotel tax & service
-- Complimentary upgrade to NITROX with proof of NITROX certification. Prices begin at $544 per person (based on 6 divers in a 3 bedroom villa).
For more information, visit www.h2otours.net, call 1-866-480-3483.

Scuba Dive Bonaire Buddy Dive Resort Package: A PADI 5 Star Gold Palm Resort that keeps the needs of divers in mind, Buddy’s is a resort where you can dive, dive, dive, take part in a multitude of other available activities, or just sit back, relax, and enjoy the casual atmosphere and personable staff. Package includes:
-- 7 nights 2-bedroom accommodations
-- 6 days of 1-tank dives
-- Free Nitrox
-- 7 day rental vehicle
-- Round trip transfers
-- Taxes and service charges
Valid for travel September 1-25, 2009 and November 28 to December 18, 2009. Prices begin at $807 per person quad occupancy (competitive airfare available). Click here for more details. For more information, visit www.caradonna.com, or call 1-800-328-2288.

There’s a great deal with Maduro Travel at Captain Don’s Habitat for adult divers traveling with kids during summer. The “Home of Diving Freedom” on Bonaire is offering kids 16 and under a free stay and dive package when sharing accommodations with a paying adult. Kids who are certified receive the same dive package as the paying adults and non-diving kids receive a free introductory scuba course or 4 open water dives if doing a completion referral course. (Minimum 7-night stay required, 1 kid per each paying adult, maximum 2 kids with 2 paying adults, meals and marine park fee not included, and kids still subject to $6.58 nightly TIL tax.) 7-night dive packages start at $1168 per adult and include accommodations in a 1-bedroom bungalow, welcome rum punch, buffet breakfast daily, 6 single-tank boat dives, 6 days of 24-hour unlimited shore diving, taxes, service charges and energy surcharge.  Kids special valid through August 29, 2009; Singles special Aug 29 – Sep 26, 2009 and 2 Free nights Nov 28 – Dec 19, 2009. Some restrictions apply; call for details, availability and pricing. For more information, visit www.HabitatBonaire.com, or call 1-800-327-6709.

Den Laman is offering specially reduced rates to solo travelers vacationing between August 29 and September 25, 2009 when studio condominiums are only $85 per night and one-bedrooms only $150 per night (excluding government room tax.) Discounted rates apply to single occupancy only.  During this time, all vacationers—single, double, triple, or quad—receive a 7th night free with 6 nights paid (must pay government room tax only.) Divers can also take advantage of this special by paying for 5 days of diving and receiving the 6th day free and free Nitrox upgrades!  Den Laman features 16 fully air-conditioned studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartments and is the location of Fish Eye Photo, Bonaire Dive & Adventure, and the seaside Sunset Bar & Grill Restaurant. For more information, visit www.denlaman.com, or call 1-800-382-1094.

Divi Flamingo and Scuba Travel Ventures are pleased to offer a special coral spawning package during this year’s coral spawning dates.  Included:
-- 7 nights accommodations
-- Airport transfers
-- Buffet breakfast daily
-- Daily 2 tank boat dive
-- Unlimited tanks for shore diving
-- Night “refresher” dive on the Calabas reef with certified instructors
-- 1 free night boat dive during spawning
-- Free lecture and slide show prior to spawning dive
-- Free CD/DVD of underwater footage during spawning dive
-- All taxes and service charges
Pricing, based upon double occupancy, is $950 per person.  Valid on August 8-15, 2009, August 9-16, 2009 (recommended), September 5-12, 2009, September 6-13, 2009 (recommended), October 6-13, 2009 (recommended).  In addition, clients will receive a $50 credit to be used at the resort. For more information, call 1-888-322-3483.

Golden Reef Inn is offering an anniversary special, which includes:
-- Accommodations in condo or villa
-- All Room Taxes
-- Energy Surcharges
-- Free Rum Punch Welcome Cocktail
-- Bonaire “Oasis” Goodie Basket in your apartment
-- Free Unlimited WIFI access
-- Free International Calling
-- Double Cabin Pickup Truck or compact car, including all government taxes & surcharges
-- 10% off all Spa Services
-- 15 Free minutes Internet access at Chat N Browse
-- Unlimited shore diving package including tanks, air, taxes and 24/7 access to tanks and secure gear storage
-- Free unlimited Nitrox upgrade
Rates begin $399.00 per person double occupancy for 8 days, 7 nights (diver), $299.00 per person double occupancy for 8 days, 7 nights (non-diver when staying with a diver), valid now through August 31, 2009.  Payment in full required when booking, some restrictions may apply.  For more information, visit www.goldenreefinn.com.

Caribbean Wind & Sun Vacations and Hamlet have teamed up to offer substantial summer savings while Hamlet is renovating their pool.  Book a studio for two starting at $385.00 per week, while one-bedroom units start at $455.00 a week.  Rates do not include $6.50 per person per day tax, service, and departure cleaning. Dive Friends @ Hamlet is on site where 6 days unlimited air is $114.00 per person. This special is valid for travel between August 24 and September 28, 2009.  Prices subject to change and are based on availability.  For more information, visit www.bonairecaribbean.com or call 1-800-219-0118.

Plaza Resort Bonaire is offering group specials for a limited time only!  Early Booking Bonus for 2009 and 2010 includes 2 free nights, 6th day of diving free and free Nitrox.  Plus ask about our single diver incentive!  Group must be deposited within the next 30 days.  With Plaza Resort Bonaire 7th Heaven on 18 Palms package, prices start at $785 per diver, (based on double occupancy), and includes:
-- 7 nights Standard Suite
-- 6 days unlimited shore
-- Safety deposit box, lock & key
-- Tax, service and energy surcharge
-- Round-trip airport transfers
This package is valid now through December 19, 2009. Stay and Dive for free at the Plaza Resort Bonaire. For more information, visit www.islandexpressdivetours.com, or call 1-800-439-0300.

Paragon Travel/SC Travel offers Sand Dollar Condominium Resort’s “Ride to the Reef” package, which includes a multitude of dive goodies and a free NITROX upgrade! Packages start at $804 per person, based on quad occupancy, and $1017 per person based on double occupancy, and include
-- 7 nights accommodation
-- 6 days of unlimited tanks for shore diving plus six one tank boat dives
-- 7 day truck rental
-- Daily buffet breakfast
-- Room tax
Packages in studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom fully equipped condos are available. This package is available now through December 18, 2009. For more information, visit www.ricktaman.com, or call 1-416-461-2432.

(Source:  TCB-NY and Various Bonaire Properties)

Monday, June 29, 2009

Maduro Dive Fanta-Seas Offers Escorted Bonaire Trips for Individuals

Escorted group trips have great appeal to couples, singles, families, and friends who love to dive and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of having the availability of your own tour conductor who can assist in making sure all goes as planned, but many times group trips are only open to a limited amount of participants, specific to a dive store or club.  However, Maduro Dive Fanta-Seas is now offering group trips to Bonaire, for individuals, to fill that need.

There are many benefits when traveling with an escorted group trip, such as meeting new friends and dive buddies.  Additionally, there are value-added features such as free nights, free Nitrox, food & beverage credits, free diving or airfare, or other travel components that would not be available if planning a trip on your own. Also, the group tour conductor is responsible for all dive travelers to insure a smooth, hassle-free dive vacation for everyone and participants can rest assured knowing their arrangements have been made by a knowledgeable dive travel specialist.

There are two such upcoming trips to Bonaire during 2009.  The first will be to Buddy Dive Resort from September 19 through 26 (details available in PDF format by clicking here), and the second is to Captain Don’s Habitat from December 5 through 12 (click here for details on this tour, also in PDF format).  Both tours offer great savings and are sure to be fun-filled.

For more information, email by clicking here or call 1-800-327-6709. (Source:  Maduro Dive Fanta-Seas)

Sunday, June 28, 2009

Jong Bonaire Announces 2010 Bonaire Calendar Available September, 2009

As in past years, the kids enrolled in the Jong Bonaire after-school programs have produced a stunning 2010 calendar, focusing on the island’s cultural heritage.

In a time when the world is shrinking due to mass communication and travel, often culturally rich areas begin to lose their individuality and heritage.  Bonaire continues to strive to maintain its unique heritage, and earlier this year, the kids of Jong Bonaire explored different aspects of their ancestors’ history and culture.

These activities were recorded in images with the kids along with the grandinan (elder Bonaireans) who taught them, based on what their own elders had taught them, and thus their knowledge was passed to another generation.  These images were taken in typical Bonairean locations, and then turned into the 2010 calendar, so there will be a handsome picture on the wall depicting Bonaire all year long for those who purchase the calendar.

The calendar is titled Treasures Discovered by the Kids of Jong Bonaire.  The size is 30x30 cm and each one is individually shrink-wrapped. When opened it measures 30x60cm (12x24 inches) and it is sure to be a welcome gift for all Bonaire aficionados.

Jong Bonaire serves the island’s teenagers each weekday after school and provides a safe, supervised, and caring environment for our youth--the most valuable resource for the future of our community.  Please look for the calendars in September and help support Bonaire’s kids.  (Source:  Jong Bonaire)

Thursday, June 25, 2009

Bonaire Oceanfront Condo Launches New Web Site

Bonaire Oceanfront Condo is a privately owned studio condominium located on the premises of the Sand Dollar Condominium Resort.  The property has just launched a new web site to provide information about vacation rentals.

The owners and hosts, Irwin and Jacqueline Spector, welcome you to their studio condo.  On the new web site, viewable by clicking here, those interested in the possibility of renting the unit may watch a short video, as well as learn about the condo’s amenities, the Spector’s recommendations for restaurants, food shopping, as well as the ins and outs of getting to Bonaire and renting a vehicle.  You may email for additional information by clicking here.  (Source:  Bonaire Oceanfront Condo)

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Dive Friends Bonaire Announces Special Coral Spawning Diving Activities and Weekly Packages

September and October are the months when coral spawning is expected each year on Bonaire. Coral spawning, or the cultivation of the corals, is something unique and a “must-see” for every diver. 

This spectacular event takes place on Bonaire when several coral species (but also other organisms) release secretions into the water column at the same time under the influence of environmental circumstances such as water temperature and a very special position of the moon.

Any diver has to be very lucky to witness this event, but there is a schedule with predicted dates for the 2009 coral spawning event (click here to view in PDF format.)

Special dive packages are available for the 2009 coral spawning season with a variety of popular properties with prices and amenities to suit every budget:

• Coco Palm Garden offers a package which is $537.00 per person, double occupancy in a studio unit. This package includes 7 night’s accommodation, a rental vehicle, 6 days unlimited shore diving, a special guided coral spawning night dive, and all taxes. Please note that air-conditioning, if desired, is $12.50 per room per night additional.

• Happy Holiday Homes offers a special package of $524.00 per person, based on double occupancy. Package includes 7 night’s accommodations, 7 days double-cabin pickup truck, 6 days unlimited shore diving, 1 special guided coral spawning night dive, and all taxes and fees.

• Tropicana Apartments offers several packages. All packages include 7 night’s accommodations, double-cabin pickup truck, 6 days unlimited shore diving, special guided coral spawning night dive, and all taxes. Price is $512.00 per person based on quad occupancy in a two-bedroom unit, $632.00 per person double occupancy in a studio unit, or $667.00 per person double occupancy in a one-bedroom unit.

• Yachtclub Apartments is offering their coral spawning package of $659.50 per person, based on double occupancy, and the package includes 7 night’s studio accommodations, rental car, 6 days unlimited shore diving, 1 special guided coral spawning night dive, and all taxes. A group of ten persons can also be accommodated in the Yachtclub’s penthouse suite. The cost, minimum 10 persons, is $509.20 per person and includes 7 night’s accommodations in the penthouse, 2 rental cars for the week, 6 days unlimited shore diving, 1 special guided coral spawning night dive, and all taxes.

For more information or to book one of these coral spawning packages, contact Dive Friends Bonaire at email info@dive-friends-bonaire.com.

Those staying at other properties on Bonaire are welcome to join Dive Friends Bonaire for the coral spawning dives.  For any dates when coral spawning is predicted, Dive Friends Bonaire is organizing special night dives for their guests to see the phenomenon. This night dive is $49.00 per person (excluding equipment and air), plus 5% sales tax, with a minimum of four persons. Advance reservations are recommended to avoid disappointment.  For more information or to make a reservation, please contact info@dive-friends-bonaire.com. Please note that night lights will be available to rent, in the range of $10.00 to $20.00 per light, plus 5% sales tax.  (Source:  Dive Friends Bonaire, image courtesy of Caren Eckrich)

Monday, June 22, 2009

Foundation Animal Welfare Bonaire Requests Assistance

The Bonaire Insider has received a request to assist in getting the word out that the Foundation Animal Welfare Bonaire requires help.  This non-profit association looks out for the welfare of all animals on Bonaire, including pets, such as dogs and cats, and also larger farm animals, such as horses.

As a bit of background information, Elly Albers, the president of the foundation since 2007 and a previous manager of the Bonaire Animal Shelter, informs the Insider that the association investigates allegations of animal abuse, and, if warranted, involves the Justice Department so that the abused animal is removed from the owners and then sheltered elsewhere where it is cared for, while the case goes to court and until there is a decision made.

Within the past year, there was a landmark case which was indeed won in court, and the decision was made not to return the horse to the original owner.  In fact, the case was appealed to a higher court, and it was not overturned.  This particular animal’s jaw had been injured so badly that it cannot accept a bit, and therefore finding a new home for him is nearly impossible.  The association has pledged to take care of this animal for the rest of his life.  The costs for the care and feeding of the horse costs FL 300.00/month (about USD $170.00/month) and the foundation, which exists solely on volunteer work and contributions, has succeeded for the better part of a year to cover these costs.  However, the coffers are becoming low and the foundation seeks out individuals who can help with small donations.

100% of funds received go directly to the feeding and care of the animals under the protection of the foundation.  All board members of the foundation volunteer their time, and no salaries are paid to anyone.  The local vets on Bonaire also donate their time and services to the foundation.

If anyone is interested in helping out, any donation no matter the amount will be sincerely appreciated.  Those on Bonaire can make a donation into the association’s bank account at Maduro & Curiels Bank (Bonaire), account #113.06.706.  Those in the United States may request donations be forwarded through Support Bonaire, available by clicking here, and noting that the funds should go to the Foundation Animal Welfare Bonaire.  Those wishing to make donations from other areas of the world may inquire directly by emailing the association. (Source:  Foundation Animal Welfare Bonaire)

Sunday, June 21, 2009

Bonaire’s Bats are Seriously Endangered by Increasing Construction

The cave-dwelling bat-colonies on Bonaire are under increasing pressure. The Barcadera and Colombia areas of Bonaire offer the highest diversity among bats on Bonaire, including the Mormoops megalophylla (phantom-face bat), a sub-species that is only found on Bonaire.

A large colony of Leptonycteris curasoae (long-snout bat) seems to have been driven away already. This is also the area for the Natalus tumidirostris (funnel-eared Bat). This animal is still found here, although it is possibly close to extinction on Bonaire. The increase of tourism, tourism projects, and construction of luxury villas threaten the survival of the cave-dwelling bats. It is estimated that 75% of cave-dwelling bat species on Bonaire have less than 500 individuals still living.  Further, the fact that more and more people are visiting the caves does not help either in protecting these diminishing colonies.

These summations can be found in a 2008 report by Anna Rojer of the scientific institute for Caribbean Research and Management of Biodiversity (Carmabi) in Curaçao. STINAPA Bonaire was shocked by the results and sounded the alarm bell:  both caves and bats urgently need protection.

In areas with many caves, like Barcadera, Santa Barbara, Colombia, and Lima, there is construction planned while there is a lack of consideration for the bats’ environment. By protecting the caves and the surrounding areas, the bat population may be saved. Carmabi has pledged support to STINAPA in developing a control plan.

In 1991, the Barcadera area was designated as a protected area due to the presence of these caves and their bats. Unfortunately the government lifted that protection in 2005 to allow construction. STINAPA is pleading to reinstate this protection before it’s too late. The same goes for the Colombia area, which is also rich in caves and cave-dwelling bats.

Many tropical bat-species need caves as a daytime hiding place. It is also the place where their young are born. Not every cave is suitable for the bats. Most species have specific requirements. It is known that the phantom-faced bat (Mormoops megalophylla) and long-snout bats (Leptonycteris curasoae) only will live in caves that are very warm, so bats cannot simply relocate to another cave when disturbed, as other caves may not necessarily meet their exact habitat requirements. The rare Natalus tumidirostris’ (funnel-eared bat) also has high demands for its living quarters. There are only about 100 to 150 specimens left on Bonaire. There used to be a large colony that lived in a cave in Sabadeco until it collapsed when a house was built on top of it.

It’s not only the actual destruction of their cave homes that will drive bats away, but an entire colony of phantom-faced bats was decimated in Curacao when construction took place hundreds of meters away. It is theorized that the vibrations or sounds of the scraping of the earth by the bulldozers caused the bats to leave their cave home.

The funnel-eared bat still exists, but in only one cave on Bonaire. Just entering the cave could mean the wholesale death of this species if they have young as the disturbance can cause the babies to drop to the ground and die of hunger.

Bats are the only indigenous mammal species on Bonaire and all species that do exist on Bonaire are endemic subspecies. This means that they only occur on the Leeward islands and nowhere else in the world. They are very useful to man and nature because they eat mosquitoes and cross-pollinate the cacti (see image above). The long-tongue bat (Glossophaga elongate) and the long-snout bat are nectar-eating bats that pollinate the flowers of the pillar cacti, which only bloom at night. This pollination allows the fruits to grow which provide food for birds and reptiles in the dry season.  (Source:  STINAPA, image courtesy of Ron van Rijn)

Friday, June 19, 2009

Father’s Day Buffet Lunch Is Offered at Casablanca Restaurant

Celebrate Father’s Day this Sunday, June 21st at Casablanca Restaurant with their special buffet lunch served from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM.

There will be a variety of dishes from which to choose, including grilled beef with mango or mushroom sauce, grilled chicken breast, or grilled fish fillet with creole or green onion sauce.  The main course will be served with baked potato, coleslaw, and rice.  A welcome drink is included in the price, as well as salad or soup and dessert.  Costs for the lunch are FL 43.75 (USD $25.00) for adults, FL 21.87 (USD 12.50) for children 6 to 12 years, old and children five and under are free.  (Source:  Casablanca Restaurant)

Thursday, June 18, 2009

Bonaire Wellness Connexions Holds Cycling Events in June and July, 2009

Cycling is becoming a popular sport on Bonaire, and there will be several cycling events during June and July, 2009.

On Sunday, June 28, there will be a mountain bike tour at Washingon Park.  Registration will begin at 7:45 AM at the entrance to the park, with a briefing held at 8:00 AM, after which the tour will immediately begin.  Entry fee is FL 25.00 per person (about USD $14.00 per person) and includes a sandwich, drinks, and fruit.  Advanced riders who wish to extend their trip may start riding from Bonaire Wellness Connexions (in Kralendijk) to the entrance of the park, continue with the tour, and then finish with a ride back to Kralendijk.  This advanced ride will start from BWC at 7.00 AM. Should participants get tired during the park tour, there will be assistance with a pickup, so they can catch a ride.  For more information, call (on Bonaire) 785-0767.

On Sunday, July 5th, there is a Ride for Hope, a fund-raising event for the Bonaire Cancer Foundation.  All are invited to come and ride for a good cause. This bicycle tour is for cyclists of all levels of experience including kids, parents, and the whole family. The total ride will take about two hours of riding on paved roads in the surroundings of Kralendijk.  This ride begins at 7:00 AM, interested participants should meet at Bonaire Wellness Connexions.  Entry fee is FL 20.00 per adult (about USD $11.25) or FL 10.00 per child (about USD $5.60), and includes an event t-shirt, fruit, and drinks.  (Source:  Bonaire Wellness Connexions)