This is a guest post written by Marguerite Wynter.
It’s currently 20 degrees outside, windy and snowy here in New England and I don’t know about you BUT I’m dreaming of warmer days. I just want to be 2,093 miles south on the island of Bonaire aka. Paradise. Bonaire, an island not known to many, is a must visit for those looking for a different kind of vacation. What sets Bonaire apart from others is its untouched ecosystem, as seen through its preservation of its national and marine parks. Unlike the neighboring islands of Aruba and Curacao, Bonaire has a peaceful and slow paced environment which causes you to feel relaxed the second you step off the plane.
I have been fortunate enough to call this place my second home for the past 15 years of my life. I have explored every nook and cranny. That said, I want to share my TOP reasons for why Bonaire should be on your list of places to visit this year
Diving and Snorkeling
Best known for being one of the diver paradises of the world, divers and snorkeler’s flock to this island to experience the beauty the reefs have to offer. The reefs are unspoiled and home to some of the most beautiful creatures on the planet. Head to Wayaka Beach, located in the Washington Slagbaai Natural Park, to swim with the colorful parrotfish. My personal favorite spot, 1000 Steps, is THE place for snorkeling and diving. However, there are so many beautiful spots to choose from.
Tip: To find the many underwater sites be sure to keep an eye out for the yellow painted rocks which indicate the diving and snorkeling spots.
Sightseeing
Start by driving up the coast towards Rincon, the oldest town on the island, and head to Gotomeer. This saltwater lagoon is the home of and the place to see flamingos. Yes, flamingos, they are widely protected on the island, also considered the signature bird. Don’t forget to snap some pictures of the islands native iguanas! Also, be sure to take a trip to the south of the island to see the Slave Huts which housed slaves during the 1800s while they worked on the salt ponds. The south of the island also serves as a great area to see more of Bonaire’s wildlife. There are many dive and snorkeling sites located there as well.
Windsurfing
While I myself am not a windsurfer, Bonaire is home to some of the greatest windsurfing professionals in the sport. Sorobon in Lac, is the playing ground for these pros and the best learning spot in the world for windsurfing beginners. The waters are knee deep and see to the bottom clear, making learning as easy as it comes. Hang out Bar at Jibe City is one of my favorite spots on the island and it’s where you will find me most often during my vacation. While sipping on yummy sangria and munching on the bar’s famous brootje kip sandwiches you can see the windsurfers sail by. The breeze and the warm water make this the ultimate place to chill and read a book (that’s if you’re not windsurfing, of course). You must check it out!
Dining
I consider myself to be quite the foodie and Bonaire is home to some of my favorite places to eat. First off, you cannot visit Bonaire without trying some of the local cuisine. Maiky Snack is the most authentic local cuisine you will find on the island, be sure to try their polenta with fish or funchi ku piska as the locals call it. Another favorite, Mi Banana is a great restaurant to experience delicious Columbian food; their tres leche is the best dessert I’ve ever had. For a more upscale feel try Capriccio for the finest Italian food outside of Italy. A nice bottle of wine along with their homemade bread and pasta is a treat for all the senses.
Hope you’ll take the time to explore and enjoy all that Bonaire has to offer.
For more information and useful links for more recommendations on Bonaire check out:
Bonaire Official Site http://www.tourismbonaire.com/
Caribbean Wind & Sun Vacations http://www.bonairecaribbean.com/