This was our first visit to Bonaire — the shore diving capital of the Caribbean — and we certainly hope it won't be our last.
A few thoughts for our next visit:
- A place with a kitchen is a must, like the apartments at Tropical Divers Resort, especially since restaurants often have fixed mealtimes that don't always work well with dive times.
- Rent a 4-wheel drive vehicle and visit Washington-Slagbaai National Park for birding and/or hiking. A compact pickup would be more suitable than a full size for two divers.
- Book an afternoon dive with East Coast Divers to visit Turtle City.
- Book boat diving at Klein Bonaire in advance (Div'Ocean was recommended).
- There are tons of great dive sites, and Salt Pier makes for a great third dive in the afternoon.
- Eat at Roos Surinam Food and Mama Mel's at Rose Inn. Between 2 Buns is a good choice if you can split a sandwich with someone, and Altamira Social is delicious but more approachable if you speak a little Spanish (or Papiamento).
- Try the gelato at both Gio's (especially their nut flavors) and Luciano (especially classics like coffee, cinnamon or salted caramel).
