Travel: Bonaire

Yesterday we, my husband and I, came back from a short stay in Bonaire. We never went here before and really fell in love with this island.  Bonaire is an island located in the Caribbean but officially belongs to the Netherlands. Since 2010 it is an independent country and became a special municipality of the Netherlands. For us it was easy because we could speak Dutch but everybody speaks English also. The currency is the American dollar.

It is not a big island therefore a scooter is a great way to get around. We rented one with Macho scooter, their equipment is good therefore safe. Also there is not much traffic that makes it safe to get around.

1000 steps

A magical place where you have to go when you love snorkeling. The name may scare you but it “only” takes around 80 steps to get down to a shallow bay that is surrounded with cliffs and has the brightest blue water you have ever seen. The reef is not that steep but filled with beautiful fish and coral and you will see a lot of turtles.   

Definsbeach resort

We stayed at Delfinsbeach resort located at Punt Vierkant. Even when you are not staying here this is a place worth visiting. You can even buy a day pass to enjoy their beach and swimming pool. This place feels like paradise.

There restaurant and bar, Brass Boer, belongs to a famous Dutch cook who has 2 Michelin stars with his restaurant “De Librije” in the Netherlands. The food is excellent especially in combination with the location and the great service. Next to this restaurant they have "Table 14" located on a cliff. This is a homage to Johan Cruijff who played football for a long period at Ajax Amsterdam under the number 14. Every time someone eats here a part of the proceeds will go to the Johan Cruijff foundation.

Kralendijk

The capital of this island is Kralendijk. This is a quiet village with a colorful main street, where you can enjoy the relaxed tropical atmosphere. There are not a lot of shops but it is nice to walk around. There are a lot of great restaurants. I don’t think there are bad places to eat here only good and excellent as our taxi driver told us on arrival. While visiting this village don’t forget to get a drink at Karels Beachbar situated on a pier looking out over the see. The view is breathtaking. 

La Cantina

Beautiful and very good restaurant situated in the center of Kralendijk. Their indoor garden and their special atmosphere, excellent food and good service makes this a go to place. Beside the food you order they spoil you with small dishes on the side and between courses. 

Jibe city

Jibe City is a relaxed windsurf center situated on the east coast. Chill place to have a drink and a (small) bite. They rent windsurf equipment and stand-up-paddle boards. A go to place even when you only want to chill and enjoy the view.

Slave huts

These huts were constructed in 1850 during the slavery time, and served as camping facilities for slaves working in the salt ponds to collect and ship the salt, one of Bonaire's most important export product. It is unbelievable to see how small these huts are.