Bonaire Briefs--Island News and a Look at What’s Happening
Bonaire offers something for everyone--divers, snorkelers, adventurers, families and even single sun-seekers. Helping to make vacationing in Bonaire easy, relaxing and fun, here is some of the latest news from the island.
All Around the Island:
Bonaire Atelier Club is for artists who need set-up supplies and a place to paint. A shaded, open-air garden atelier is available at the JanArt Gallery, located at Kaya Gloria 7. Paint supplies are also available at the Club for a small fee for travelers who choose to leave their painting equipment at home. Easels, tables and accessories are free of charge. Iguanas and birds sometimes model for free. Local artist Janice Huckaby is on sight to assist in art coaching and tips upon request. Participants may also take part in Jan’s Art Workshops designed just for the Bonaire traveler, which can be arranged for “on location” paintings, as well as at the outdoor atelier at her gallery. These workshops range from two to three hours and a complete painting can be finished in one session. This is a great alternate activity for people who want to add something different to their Bonaire experience. The workshops focus upon Bonaire’s unique nature, both above and below sea level. Phone +(599) 717-5246.
Bonaire East Coast Diving has recently increased the number of dive sites they visit on Bonaire’s east coast to a total of five. Besides Funchie’s Reef and the White Hole, they’re also organizing trips to Black Rock, Spelonk, and Ramon’s Reef. On each dive, it’s common to see numerous turtles, tarpon, eagle rays and stingrays, and also sharks and manta rays on occasion. Professional crews and the custom-built Zodiac boat make the east coast accessible to all divers. Phone +(599) 717-5211.
Bonaire Wedding Pros is a consortium of several Bonaire companies who have joined together to assist those getting married on Bonaire. The participating companies are Suze’s Wedding Planning, Philip’s Cooking, Fish Eye Photo, Barbel’s Hair and Make-up, who together will make any wedding day “a dream come true!”
Bonaire Wellness Connections launched the Bonaire Mountain Bike Holiday Package, a cycling adventure which offers the perfect opportunity to explore and see the wonders of Bonaire from a mountain bike. Participants can discover numerous single tracks which were, in the past, used by goats and donkeys. Follow the professional guides to learn more about Bonaire’s flora, fauna, and natural history. Additionally, BWC will hold its next mountain bike race of the 2009 season on November 1st. For the first time, this race will offer a challenging race with a lot of single-tracks and climbing, plus a technical downhill section.
Bonaire Windsurf Place announced the renovation of their website, which provides many great links that will be of interest to the Bonaire windsurfing visitor. Enjoy the live web-cam with two lenses that changes the view every ten minutes: one 90-degree angle and one telephoto lens, which look out over Lac Bay towards the east. Current wind, temperature and other data are also displayed. For more information, visit www.bonairewindsurfplace.com.
Bowalie Sailing has recently expanded their sailing/snorkel charters with a boat rental option (motor boats) and a water taxi to Klein Bonaire. All excursions and rentals leave from Plaza Resort Marina. Phone +(599) 701-5500 or +(599) 701-3300.
Lee’s Bar announced the new Thursday “Easy Listening” night with a relaxed atmosphere and music, played at a level where conversations can be heard. The sports/music bar features NFL and college football, soccer, Formula 1, baseball, and other sports (upon request) easily viewed on three large screens. At Lee’s visitors can view the Rock ‘n’ Roll Wall of Fame, where nearly fifty artists of the 1950s are honored. And for those who want their moment in the spotlight, enjoy karaoke in a variety of languages! Phone +(599) 700-3188.
Littman’s Jewelers offers a twist on fine jewelry shopping on Bonaire. When planning a visit to Bonaire now through September 30, 2009, be sure to pre-qualify for up to a 20% discount on select items by emailing Steve, Esther, or Adam to let them know when you are visiting. Be sure to reference “Bonaire Briefs” in the subject line. Then, when in the store, simply ask for one of them to receive the discount. For more information, visit www.bonairelittmanstores.com.
The Mangrove Info Center reports that management and staff have just completed intensive training and advanced education on mangrove restoration and management policies, so as to, in turn, better educate those visiting Bonaire’s mangrove forests. The workshop they attended focused upon such important topics such as mangrove recovery and restoration, and the information received will be incorporated into all mangrove excursions offered in Lac Bay by the center, either by kayak or solar boat. For more information, visit www.mangrovecenter.com or phone +(599) 780-5353.
The Massage Hut at Sorobon Beach (Lac Bay) announced the addition of Just Haircuts by Desiree, one of Bonaire’s most popular stylists. Haircuts are available Thursday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Additionally, Desiree offers body scrubs and bath salts made from Bonaire salt, along with jewelry made from objects found on Bonaire, providing wonderful opportunities for unique gifts or souvenirs. Of course, these new services are in addition to the massage and body scrubs currently offered by Ann Johnson, the Massage Hut’s certified massage therapist. For more information, visit www.massagehutbonaire.com.
Ocean Adventures will be hosting Rebreather Weeks in November, 2009. The event weeks will include airport transfers, welcome drink, one week at Casa Bonito Apartments (double occupancy including room tax), one week rental pickup truck (double cabin with air-conditioning, two persons per pickup), free Internet access, unlimited shore diving open circuit (air or nitrox) for six days, a rebreather test diving with DRAEGER FGT5400 to be used as SCR or mCCR (guided dives only), a rebreather test diving MCCR kiss style “Ladies version” with ultralight CFK tanks (guided dives only), oxygen and diluents (air) for those who are using their own rebreathers. Phone +(599) 717-2278 or 1-305-890-1608.
Delectable Dining:
Cactus Blue Bar & Restaurant offers a signature dish of Yellow Fin Tuna, slightly blackened with Cajun seasoning, seared on both sides and served sashimi style with coconut rice, freshly sautéed market vegetables, wasabi mayonnaise, and pickled ginger. Pair that with one of their innovative cocktails, such as the Pink Cactus, and you will find a potion full of Caribbean flavors. Cactus Blue has live music on Monday and Wednesday evenings with the sounds of the Caribbean, starting at 7:00 PM. For more information, visit www.cactusbluebonaire.com or phone +(599) 717-4564.
Hilltop Restaurant & Bar’s signature cocktail offers a smooth, minty concoction of tropical fruit liquors, fruit juice, with just a hint of coconut. Sip it slowly to savor the subtle blend of flavors, while you wait for the arrival of local stoba (stew) of choice. Choose from beef, chicken, or goat, as the Hilltop is specially known for stoba! Each Sunday guests are treated to an expansive “all-you-can-eat” Caribbean BBQ, while those dining on Tuesdays can enjoy the sumptuous Creole buffet, highlighting a wide range of local dishes. For more information, visit www.caribbeanclubbonaire.com or phone +(599) 717-7901.
Lion’s Den Beach Bar & Restaurant at Buddy Dive Resort offers daily drink specials to keep you cool. Stimulate your senses with their Flamingo Salsa, Minty Rum Mojito, Mango/Guava Margarita, The Green Flash, Passion Fruit Mojito, Lion Queen, or Tropical Smash. Dine on the daily entrée specials, or enjoy a theme night such as their famous Lobster Night, Tex-Mex, Seafood Lovers, Shrimp Madness, U.S. Burgers in Paradise, Italian Pasta Combos, or Roast Beef Sundays. Phone +(599) 700-0892.
Paradise Moon Bar & Restaurant offers wonderfully breezy, harbor-side dining with Happy Hour daily from 5 – 6:30 PM with half price drinks! If you stay for dinner, the fresh “Catch of the Day” is always available, as is a varied vegetarian menu. You can start the evening with a Bikini Martini, a wonderful mix of coconut rum, vodka, and pineapple Juice—just the right touch to top off a day at the beach! Then indulge yourself in their Yummy Fish Tacos--crispy fried fish filets served with a cool and creamy avocado dressing, all wrapped up in flour tortillas and served with Caribbean rice and roasted vegetables. For more information, visit www.paradisebonaire.com, or phone +(599) 717-5025.
Sense / Eat, Drink, Dance is one of Bonaire’s newest eateries. You can sit al fresco while you enjoy a Raspberry Mojito, one of their great signature cocktails. The Sense “shakerboys” are on-site to master all cocktails on your wish list. You can then feast upon tenderloin with potatoes, pumpkin, and bok choy, served with a mustard-gravy, which is sure to please the palate. An extra bonus for Sunday diners is the live music. Phone +(599) 717-6666.
Sunset Bar & Grill, located at Den Laman Condominiums, celebrated their first anniversary on August 1st. With daily liquid concoction specials such as Caipirinia, Sunset King, Dushi Bonaire, Lobster on the Rocks, Swimming Pool, or Yellow Fever, there’s no wonder the bar and restaurant is a favorite with many Bonaire visitors. After one or more relaxing drinks, pick your favorite theme night and enjoy a fabulous meal: Seafood Sensations, Caribbean Night, Lobster Night, Seaside BBQ, Italian Night, or Steak Night. Phone +(599) 700-0892.
Patagonia Argentinean Restaurant offers great waterfront dining for lunch or dinner. Their new chef offers stunning presentations of a multitude of steaks, rack of lamb, chicken, pasta, or fish entrées. Sandwiches and burgers are available for lunch, as well as the extensive dinner menu. Live music will soothe the soul on Thursday and Sunday evenings, and their “all-you-can-eat” BBQ buffets on Saturday and Tuesday evenings are popular enough to recommend an advance reservation. The restaurant offers fair trade coffee and a stunning wine list of the finest selections from the Rutini Vineyards of Argentina. For more information, visit www.patagoniarestaurant.com or phone +(599) 717-7725.
The Poolbar Bar & Restaurant, located at Buddy Dive Resort, offers a surprising special drink when they dare to mix Gin, Malibu, and Pasoa with passion-fruit juice, and then finish it off with draft beer! You can take the challenge and try their award-winning cocktail (Balashi Beer contest, 2007). With a brand new kitchen equipped in April with all new Rosval equipment, you’re sure to enjoy any meal, but do be sure to take the time to enjoy the Buddy Club Sandwich—with a secret twist! For more information, visit www.buddydive.com/index.php/restaurants or phone: +(599) 701-4548.
WattaBurger offers quick, economical, and great-tasting sandwiches and local stobas (stews). They serve all the traditional Dutch snacks, and they use only the best 100% beef for their burgers. Choose from over fifty French breads for your sandwich, and, while you’re waiting, cool down with a refreshing vanilla, strawberry, chocolate, or banana milk shake, made the old-fashioned way! Phone +(599) 717-3547 or fax +(599) 717-3547.
Yachtclub Restaurant Bonaire is an intimate restaurant with only seven tables and is operated directly under the watchful eyes of the two owners, Kim and Rick. They will provide you with first class cuisine and exceptional, personal service. They offer European dishes with French and Italian flavors, and also spice them up with ingredients that capture true Caribbean flavor. You are welcome to stop by, sit back, and experience the food, the wine, and personal service. Phone +(599)-9-517-8228.
On the Hotel Scene:
Belmar Oceanfront Apartments announces the arrival of Mauricio Gomez, who has recently joined the dive shop team. Originally from Costa Rica, he studied Tourism & Hotel Business Management, and after finalizing his studies he decided to pursue a career in the adventure travel and diving industry. Mau has been an instructor since 1999 and is currently a Master Scuba Diver Trainer, he has had the opportunity to teach and dive not only in Costa Rica, but also the Red Sea, The Cayman Islands, Turks & Caicos and now Bonaire. He has also guided hiking, mountain biking and canopy tours in several countries. For more information, visit www.belmar-bonaire.com or phone 1-888-655-0605.
Blachi Koko Apartments introduces affordable Caribbean luxury with the new Koko House. A new extension of the popular Blachi Koko Apartments, the Koko House is located approximately 200 yards north from the Apartments, ideally situated for easy walking into Kralendijk’s main shopping area. The new property provides the same look and feel, giving the impression of staying in a colonial Antillean home. Koko House can accommodate up to six persons, with a minimum six-night stay. The house features two bedrooms with king size beds, complete with large safes, one bedroom with twin size beds (can be made into a king), ceiling fans and air conditioning in every bedroom, a fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher, cable TV, wireless Internet, and more. For more information, visit www.blachikokobonaire.com or call cellular phone: +(599) 786-5466 or office phone: +(599) 717-2255.
Bruce Bowker’s Carib Inn boasts of a completely new and much improved pier and walkway. Made of stainless steel framing, the pier is much more environmentally friendly. Additionally, the popular resort has finished a complete makeover of its exterior with an all new color scheme and landscaping. Interiors have not been forgotten—guests are enjoying all new items from linens to kitchenware. For more information, visit www.caribinn.com or phone +(599) 717-8819.
Captain Don’s Habitat’s new dive center and new airlift on Insel Air are the latest causes for celebration at the Home of Diving Freedom on Bonaire. The newly built, state-of-the-art dive operation, rental, and retail center are receiving high praises from divers. This new, larger facility also boasts more spacious and modern conference area and classrooms, furnished with upgraded audio and visual equipment, and wireless Internet service. Conveniently located next to the restaurant and bar, it is just a few steps from the dock and shore diving areas. The dive operation is a SDI/TDI Professional Development Center and a PADI, NAUI and SSI training facility. Phone 1-800-327-6709.
Caribbean Club Bonaire’s retail store has undergone a facelift, with the end result of the addition of more products. Also, guests can now take advantage of their kayak diving tours and even partake in a PADI Kayak Diver Specialty Certification. Kayaking paired with diving have long been known around the Caribbean as an “eco diving” activity, but it’s been popular on Bonaire for many years. Two new instructors, Jinny and Gaylene, have joined the team. Jinny George is an Antillean instructor who will put a smile on your face from the time you start your class to the finish! Gaylene Gomez traveled half the globe after leaving Canada, but has settled on Bonaire. For more information, visit www.caribbeanclubbonaire.com or phone 1-800-906-7708.
Den Laman Condominiums have begun stocking their condo kitchens with a number of small, but useful, amenities including salt and pepper shakers, paper towels, dish washing liquid, coffee filters, irons and ironing boards. A common area washer and dryer have also been installed. Den Laman features 16 modern fully air conditioned studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments. For more information, visit www.denlaman.com or phone 1-800-382-1094.
Dive Flamingo Beach Resort’s Flamingo Balashi Beach Bar is bigger and better than ever, now that it sports an expanded bar and sitting area. The bar, which overlooks the Caribbean Sea, can now seat over thirty people and includes a drink rail. The Flamingo Balashi Beach Bar is also Bonaire’s best Happy Hour spot with two-for-one specials from 6:00 PM until 7:00 PM daily with live music. Fridays at Balashi feature a free Flamingo Rum Smash from 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. The Flamingo Balashi Beach Bar is open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM and also offers beach chair service for drinks, a light lunch, or snacks. Additionally, renovations on twenty new studio rooms were just completed. The resort also plans a special coral spawning package for October 6-13, 2009.
Harbour Village Beach Club’s new Executive Chef & Restaurant Manager, Juan Pablo Islas, joins the culinary team at La Balandra and Kasa Coral Restaurants. A graduate of Le Cordon Bleu in 2001, Chef Islas honed his skills in kitchens all over the world from Le Cordon Bleu’s restaurant “Signatures” on board the RSSC Mariner to French Bistro JLX in Sag Harbour, NY to Ocean Bar and Grill in Budapest and the Sivory in Punta Cana. Phone +(599) 717-7500 or 1-800-424-0004.
Hotel Roomer continues with property upgrades and have just completed an extensive renovation of the hotel’s pool and cabana area. For more information, visit www.roomerbonaire.com, phone +(599) 717-7488, or fax +(599) 717-7412.
Outdoor Bonaire is in the final stages of completion for their new eco-bush-lodge, Rancho San Minguel, and should be operational by early 2010. The lodge will provide a place to stay fifteen minutes from town, but which will seem to be of another world. The lodge is actually a restored horse stable, mostly made out of wood and local stones, in an agricultural and natural location. This will be an ideal place for those wishing for peace and tranquility. Great walks can be made in the direct vicinity, as well as to the wild east coast. A variety of birds and other interesting wild life can be seen in the area. Phone +(599) 791-6272.
Perla Boneriano is a brand new dive resort, consisting of seven luxurious Caribbean-style villas, divided into 12 apartments. All the villas are situated around a beautiful pool and lush garden and are within easy walking distance of the Caribbean Sea. Four of the villas are already finished and the other units will be available soon. All the villas of Perla Boneriano have several ecological features: solar hot water panels, LED-lights for the pool, solar-powered evening lights, and septic tanks for re-usable water for the garden. For those looking for a vacation without the crowds of large resorts, Perla Boneriano offers luxury, privacy, and quality. Phone +(599) 717-6955.
RE/MAX Paradise Homes’ rental department highlights several upgrades and renovations to the properties which they manage. Hamlet Villa 10 has been renovated and has been re-opened for vacation rentals. It sports a modern kitchen, beautiful tiling on the floors, new windows and doors with extra security and complete new furniture. Next door is Hamlet Villa 9 which has also recently been renovated, plans to make ongoing upgrades as well. Together these two villas offer great accommodations for any group which prefers villa living while vacationing. Hamlet 10 accommodates up to 12 persons, while Hamlet 9 accommodates up to two persons.
Sand Dollar Condominium Resort is in the final stages of testing the installation of new services, including digital TV and property-wide wireless Internet access. Full functionality is expected by early fall. For more information, visit www.sanddollarbonaire.com or phone 1-800-288-4773.
Tropicana Apartments and BonaireFun Apartments have recently improved their amenities and now offer free WiFi, as well as hot water showers. Phone +(599) 701-0404.
(Source: TCB-North America)
