Bonaire is located in the southern Carribean and is one of five islands that make up the Netherlands Antilles. Kralendijk is the capital city of Bonaire. It is a favourite haunt of divers and snorkelers, being surrounded by more than 20km’s of coral reefs.
The Dutch influence is evident in the one main street in Kralendijk harbour with its red-tile roofs and gabled houses. Along the water is a promenade and many of the streets are lined with shops and restaurants.
Near the Town Pier, Venezuelan merchants have a Roman-style covered pavillion where you can find fresh produce, especially fish, fruit and vegetables.There are fine historical buildings around Wilhelmina Park - the Customs House and the Old Fort close to the Town Pier.
Visit during Carnival, which takes place in Kralendijk every February. Colourful costumes, parades and traditional music and dancing fill the streets with a party atmosphere.
Things to See & Do
* Snorkeling and scuba diving
* Shopping
* Town pier
* Waterfront promenade
* Historical Buildings
Cruise Season – Jan - Dec
Currency – Netherlands Antillean guilder (ANG)
Language – Dutch, English & Spanish
Land Area – 290 sq kms
Population – 18,000
Electricity – 2 perpendicular flat pins USA style or with a round pin below
Time – GMT minus four hours
International Country Telephone Code – + 1 - 599
Port Location - Cruise ships do occasionally dock in Bonaire, however it is not a major cruise ship destination. There are not currently any passenger ferries operating to or from Curacao or Venezuela.
Transport Links – KLM offers daily non-stop service from Amsterdam to Bonaire on the way to Lima or Quito. American Eagle also offers daily non-stop flights from San Juan to and from Bonaire and other major U.S cities. Air Jamaica flies from Montego Bay, which offers many connections to the US. In December 2005, Continental Airlines launched weekly non-stop flights from Newark and offer connections in Houston. Several smaller airlines connect Bonaire with the neighbouring islands.
Automobiles can be shipped to Bonaire and Rental cars are available at the airport and at selected hotels. There is an informal bus system on the island that utilizes vans. There are a small number of medium sized tour buses on the island as well. You can also get around using Bonaire Water Taxis