Sunday, May 15, 2011

Advisory for Divers, Snorkelers, or Swimmers--Portuguese Man of War in Leeward Waters

All those in the water on Bonaire’s leeward shore should take all precautions due to the presence of a type of stinging jelly, the Portuguese Man of War.

Due to light winds and then a wind reversal on Saturday, these jellies, which are normally out to sea, were blown in toward Bonaire’s leeward coast.  Sailing events at Kas di Regatta were cancelled due to their presence, and with continued light winds today, all those in the water along the leeward coastline should be on the lookout for these jellies.

Portuguese Man of War jellies have either a blue or pink float about the size and shape of an American football, and the tentacles are trailing below in the water.  They pack a wallop of a sting, many times requiring medical attention.  All should be on the alert if entering the water.  (Source:  STINAPA, image by Sipke Stapert)

Friday, May 13, 2011

A New Health Center--Essentials--Opens on Bonaire

Essentials is a new health center in Kralendijk, combining several complementary health-related businesses in one location, including clinical nutrition advice, a health food store stocked with fresh, healthy food, and therapeutic massage, promoting one stop health.

Essentials will offer health foods for sale and healthy foods will be freshly prepared. Essentials contains the health food shop formerly known as The Natural Way, and will carry a selection of natural and organically certified products. They will also have available for sale healthy foods including salads, soups, sweet and healthy treats, and freshly made drinks. Essentials will emphasize locally grown and organic produce without preservatives or food colorings.

Essentials will also offer blood pressure and glucose checks during the lunch time, along with information about the results and what it means if a participant is out of the normal range. A third component offers a range of therapeutic massages to round out their services.

Essentials will hold a “Nutritional Day” on Saturday, May 14 from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM to illustrate how healthy food does not have to be boring. Everyone is invited to attend and sample the various foods while learning about easy steps to improved health.  Essentials is located at Kaya Grandi 32B, just behind Best Buddies and Pearls, with access from the small road next to Gio’s Coffee and Gelateria. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM and Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. (Source: Essentials Bonaire)

Thursday, May 12, 2011

Hotel Roomer to Host Hamburger Competition and Wooden Shoe Auction

For those looking for a fun way to spend a Sunday afternoon, on May 29, 2011, Hotel Roomer will be hosting the 3rd annual Tilimaster Hamburger Competition followed by an auction of an amazing selection of decorated klompen (wooden shoes) by Club Roomer Bonaire. 

The fun starts at 11:00 AM when the grills will be fired up for the hamburger competition. Up to 10 amateur cooks will be contending for best burger on the island. The contestants will be judged by a panel including locals and celebrities and prizes will be awarded to the top three burgers. Contestants will also be selling their burgers so those in attendance have a chance to share in the tasting fun.

Following the hamburger competition will be the auction of the decorated wooden shoes. The shoes will be put on display and the bidding will begin. 50 pair of shoes were given away for decorating to Club Roomer members, Jong Bonaire, Stinapa, children of all ages and some local island artists. For those who would like to take a peak at the shoes ahead of time, they will be on display starting May 23rd in the window of Addo’s Books & Toys.

Proceeds from the auction will go to Club Roomer, a charitable organization, to be used to organize various charity events. All are invited to attend this day of food and fun. For more information click here. (Source: Club Roomer Bonaire)

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

Bonaire’s Hotels and Resorts Offer Sizzling Packages to Stay Cool this Summer

Bonaire’s Dive Into Summer means savings all around the island. Bonaire’s hotels are offering unbeatable hotel specials, just in time for the summer. Offerings and packages available to travelers are found below. 

Belmar Bonaire Apartments – Save money with Belmar Bonaire Apartments “Drive, Dive & Stay” package and receive one night and guided East Coast shore dive for free. Additional amenities include seven nights’ accommodations, a rental vehicle for the week, six boat dives, six days of unlimited air fill, free nitrox, free “manager’s rum punch party,” roundtrip airport transfer and all government taxes. Weekly rates begin at $658 per person, based on six people in a 3-bedroom apartment and valid from August 20 - October 1, 2011. For more information visit www.belmar-bonaire.com or call 1-888-655-0695.

Blachi Koko Apartments Bonaire – Book seven nights and pay for six when booking with Blachi Koko Apartments Bonaire this summer. Rates begin at $95 per night, per person, based on double occupancy and valid June through September, 2011. For more information visit www.blachikokobonaire.com or call 599-786-5466.

Bonaire Hotel Roomer – Take advantage of Bonaire Hotel Roomer’s offer and save this summer. The package includes accommodations in a double room, breakfast and pick-up truck rental for the week. Weekly rates begin at $500 per person and valid for the entire month of August 2011. For more information visit www.roomerbonaire.com or call 599-717-7488.

Buddy Dive Resort – Buddy Dive Resort is offering their “Dive & Drive” package where every second diver dives for free when booking this promotion. The package include seven nights’ accommodations, a rental vehicle, six boat dives, six days of unlimited air fills, free nitrox, daily American style breakfast buffet, welcome drink, free “manager’s rum punch party,” airport transfers and all government taxes. For more information visit www.buddydive.com or call 1-800-906-7708.

Captain Don’s Habitat – Kids stay and dive for free at Captain Don’s Habitat this summer with their “Kids Stay & Dive Free” package. Kids up to the age of 16 stay and dive for free. The offer allows one kid free with each paid adult for up to two kids free with two paid adults. Rates begin at $911 per person, based on double occupancy.

Couples or dive buddies traveling without children in early summer can take advantage of the 2nd diver at half price with a 7-night dive package from just $668 per person, based on double occupancy. Validity dates are May 28 – June 25, 2011. For more information visit www.habitatbonaire.com or call 1-800-327-6709.

Caribbean Club Bonaire – Book Caribbean Club Bonaire’s “Dive & Explore” package and receive a $75 discount on pre-booked diving or activities. The package includes; accommodations for seven nights, rental vehicle, six days of unlimited air fills, free nitrox, daily breakfast, free “manager’s rum punch party,” airport transfers and all government taxes. Rates begin at $690 per person based on two person studio and valid through August 20 – October 1, 2011. For more information visit www.caribbeanclubbonaire.com or call 1-800-906-7708.

Den Laman Condominiums – Den Laman Condominiums is offering special reduced rates to solo travelers vacationing from August 27 – September 30, 2011. Studio condominiums are discounted to $85 per night, and one bedroom condos are $150 per night. These discounted rates apply to single occupancy only.

During the entire summer on into the fall, all vacationers; single, double, triple or quad, receive a 7th night free with six nights paid on any accommodation category. Divers can take advantage of the pay for five days of diving; get the sixth day free special, which includes free nitrox upgrades when diving with Bonaire Dive & Adventure. For more information visit www.denlaman.com or call 1-800-382-1094.

Divi Flamingo Beach Resort & Casino – Savings are endless with Divi Flamingo Beach Resort’s “2-Tank Boat Dive” summer package. The package includes; breakfast daily, round-trip airport/hotel transfers, welcome cocktail, beach towels at the pool and beach and unlimited tanks for shore diving. Weekly rates begin at $979 per person, based on double occupancy and valid from now through December 23, 2011.

Harbour Village Resort – Dive for free this summer with Harbour Village’s “Dive Into Luxury,” package. The package includes; seven nights stay in a luxurious one or two bedroom suite, full American breakfast daily, six days of diving (one tank boat dive per day) & unlimited shore diving, tanks, weights and belts, unlimited use of the fitness center, tennis courts, kayaks and sailboats and airport transfers to/from Harbour Village. Weekly rates begin at $1,875 per person, based on double occupancy and valid now through December 16, 2011.

KonTiki Bonaire – Book seven nights and pay for six when booking KonTiki Bonaire’s summer package. Weekly rates begin at $661, based on double occupancy in a studio at Lac Bay Lagoon. This promotion is valid June 1- August 31, 2011. When booking use promo code: KonTiki-Summer-7=6.

Plaza Resort Bonaire – Take advantage and save with Plaza Resort Bonaire’s 4-D “Drive, Dive, Deluxe, Discover,” package this summer. The package includes; seven nights’ accommodations in an air-conditioned suite, 1 or 2 bedroom villas, six days unlimited air-fill for shore diving, resort tax, service and energy surcharge, plus vehicle rental including full insurance, tax and unlimited mileage for the week and for a limited time only two days of free gear rental. Rates begin at $741 per diver, based on double occupancy and valid now through December 17, 2011. For more information visit www.plazaresortbonaire.com or call 1-800-766-6016.

Sand Dollar Condominium – Sand Dollar Condominium’s value season “Ride to the Reef” package includes one night free with six nights paid, and one day of free diving with five days paid. Additional amenities include; six days of unlimited tanks for shore diving, free nitrox upgrades, truck rental and government room tax. Weekly rates begin as low as $588 per diver, based for four people sharing a two bedroom/two bathroom condominium. This offer is valid now through December 23, 2011. For more information visit www.sanddollarbonaire.com or call 1-800-288-4773.

Sonrisa Bonaire – Sonrisa Bonaire is offering their “Windsurf Package 2011” and “Dive Package 2011” to their guests this summer. Their windsurfing package includes; seven nights’ accommodations; six days windsurf equipment, all taxes, daily coffee and sandwich in the morning and Wi-Fi. Weekly rates begin at $1,170 per person, based on double occupancy and valid June – July, 2011. When booking the package include promo code: WSJJ2011.

Sonrisa Bonaire’s “Dive Package 2011” includes; seven nights’ accommodations, six days unlimited air including tank & led, all taxes, daily coffee and sandwich in the morning and Wi-Fi. Weekly rates begin at $938 per person, based on double occupancy and valid June – July, 2011. When booking the package include promo code: DVJJ2011. For more information visit www.sonrisabonaire.com or call 599-717-6633.

Sorobon Beach Resort Bonaire – Enjoy Bonaire’s hidden treasure and stay at one of the most beautiful beaches in Bonaire this summer with Sorobon Beach Resort Bonaire’s “2 for 1” promotion. The package includes seven nights stay in a one bedroom chalet, breakfast for two, your choice of six days of unlimited shore diving or windsurfing, free nitrox and upgrades to 6 boat and 11 boat dive possible. Weekly rates begin at $955 and valid thought May 7 – June 30, 2011. (Source: TCB-NY)

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

The Bonaire Heineken Jazz Festival to be Held June 2 through June 4, 2011

The seventh annual Bonaire Jazz Festival is coming up, so be sure to mark the calendar for these dates. This year’s festival promises to provide another event featuring many great international musicians with bands from Portugal, Brazil, Slovenia, the United States, the Netherlands and Curacao, mixing with Bonaire’s top musical talent to provide an excellent variety of jazz, Latin jazz, blues and funk.

Thursday June 2 is opening night with the popular Jazz & Poetry evening at beautiful Fort Oranje. Featured musicians include vocalist Nina Strnad & Trio from Slovenia and Curacao, followed by Henk van Twillert and Vento do Norte, from the Netherlands and Portugal. The entrance fee for this event $15.

Friday and Saturday, June 3 and 4 will be the main concerts, to be held at the Tipsy Seagull on the beach at Plaza Resort. Friday’s headliners feature Brazilian vocalist Kenia, followed by the lively singer Merietza Haakmat, originally from St. Maarten, who now resides in Curacao along with the well-known Curacao group Jazz 2 Soul, who play a variety of jazz, blues, Latin jazz and soul. Saturday’s headliners include the Pablo Gil Jazz Ensemble with guest Dave Samuels, an American well recognized for his percussion skills as a top mallet player, along with the vibraphone and marimba. Pablo Gil who is a renowned jazz tenor and soprano saxophonist, currently lives in Caracas, but has lived in both Europe and New York and played throughout the world. New York trombonist Conrad Herwig is a twice-nominated Grammy musician. He and his Latin All-Star Band, will finish what promises to be a delightful evening of music. The entrance fee is $30 for one evening, or $45 for both.

For those looking for more musical entertainment, After Party Jam Sessions will be held Thursday night starting at 11:00 PM at Little Havana in the main part of town, and Friday and Saturday at Sense, just across the street from Plaza Resort, with the Island Music All-Stars, a group comprised of of event performers and local artists. Admission is free.

Sunday June 5 features a new event for the Bonaire Jazz Festival, the Lazy Sunday Jazz Afternoon, to be held at the Divi Flamingo Resort starting at 4:00 PM, featuring Madeline Bell of the US, with Frits Landesbergen from the Netherlands. Madeline Bell is an American soul singer based in Europe, known for her incredible range and diverse styles. She will be performing with Frits Landesbergen, an internationally known Dutch percussionist and vibraphone player. The two play and tour together often. Admission for this event is free, and a BBQ is available for $17.50.

Tickets will be sold at Addo’s Bookstore, Divi Flamingo Beach Resort, Flamingo Bookstore, Hotel Rochaline, It Rains Fishes, Little Havana, Plaza Resort Bonaire and Sense. Students with an ID card may purchase a ticket at half price at the entrance. (Source: Bonaire Jazz Foundation)

Monday, May 09, 2011

Go Green Announces Afternoon High Tea

Go Green Natural and Organic Shop has announced it will hold High Tea in its new store located at Kaya Lib. Simon Bolivar #9 every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 4:30 to 6:00 PM, providing an opportunity for those attending to shop, socialize and enjoy delicious foods.

The High Tea will include a choice of fine teas, mimosas, a selection of tea sandwiches, petit desserts, chocolates and muffins. Weekend teas may also be held on request. The cost per person is $12.50 and reservations are required.

Those who would like to attend should visit Go Green or call 717-2222 to make a reservation. (Source: Go Green Natural & Organic Shop)

Thursday, May 05, 2011

Divi Flamingo Beach Resort Announces Mother’s Day Jazz Brunch and Special Rates on Rooms

This Sunday May 8, 2011 is Mother’s Day and Divi Flamingo Beach Resort will offer a special Mother’s Day jazz brunch featuring music by the Cabaco Trio and special prices on a weekend stay.

The special brunch buffet starts with a mimosa, tossed salad and dressings, potato salad and fresh fruit. Made-to-order omelets will be available and diners may choose from onion, tomato, green pepper, mushroom, ham and cheese. Scrambled or fried eggs are also offered along with butter pancakes and french toast. Assorted breads, pastries and jellies are also available. For those who want a taste of local food, keshi yena, goat stew and salt fish will be served accompanied by rice with vegetables, tutu and fried plantains. Finish a lovely meal with assorted cakes. Coffee, tea and assorted juices are included, all for $24.50 The buffet will be held from 11:00 AM until 2:00 PM and reservations are recommended by calling 717-8285, extension 444.

For those who would like to celebrate Mother’s Day with a weekend stay, Divi Flamingo is offering a two night weekend special which includes an ocean deluxe room or studio room, a bottle of champagne in the room upon arrival and two tickets for the Mother’s Day jazz brunch. The special price for the weekend stay is $235 (tourist tax not included) and is based on availability and non-refundable. (Source: Dive Flamingo Beach Resort & Casino Bonaire)

Wednesday, May 04, 2011

Bonaire Oceanfront Villa 9 Offers Low-Season Savings

Bonaire Oceanfront Villa 9 is pleased to announce that it is offering a low season savings of 10% discount from the normal rates for any new booking for travel June 4th through October 28th, 2011.  Since the villa can accommodate up to ten persons, a family or group of friends can enjoy economical oceanfront living while enjoying all that Bonaire has to offer.

Costs are as low as $52.50 per person per night (plus tourist tax and cleaning fees) for a group a six, while a group or family of ten will enjoy a per person per night rate of only $38.70 (plus tourist tax and cleaning fees).  Oceanfront living has never been easier or more economical than during such a low season special.

The property completed major renovations in recent years and those contemplating a vacation to Bonaire Oceanfront Villa 9 will have the use of up to five bedrooms and five bathrooms, a large and fully equipped kitchen, a third-floor roof-top terrace, new beds and mattresses, facilities for washing clothes, and a cable TV/DVD player and WIFI access. 

Located at Hamlet #9, Bonaire Oceanfront Villa 9 offers the ease of diving from your own property, as the famous “Cliff” dive site is only 100 feet from the property’s beach.  Two diving facilities are within a short walk of the villa: Dive Friends Bonaire @ Hamlet to the north, and Captain Don’s Habitat to the south.

Bonaire Oceanfront Villa 9 will provide the perfect “home-away-from-home” during any Bonaire vacation, and especially so during the numerous events and festivals the island will host during the 2011 low season.  Those planning a trip now can take advantage of these events, and plan their visit to coincide with the annual Bonaire Heineken Jazz Festival (June 2-5), the Bonaire Free Diving Event (July 31-August 14), or the Bonaire International Sailing Regatta (October 2-8).

When making a reservation, please reference “Low-Season-Savings” to receive your 10% discount from the normal rates.  All reservations must be booked and deposited no later than September 15, 2011; new reservations are subject to availability.

Bonaire Oceanfront Villa 9 is one of Bonaire’s premier oceanfront properties offering villa-style vacationing.  It offers affordable accommodations for any Bonaire visitor, but especially caters to those coming to the island to dive.  For additional information or to check availability, visit their web site at www.bonaireoceanfrontvilla.com, or e-mail: info@bonaireoceanfrontvilla.com.  (Source:  Bonaire Oceanfront Villa)