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Bonaire’s cultural tapestry is a true reflection of its people, allowing visitors to experience an enriching blend of traditions, music, art, and flavors. When it comes to shopping and dining, Bonaire offers a delightful mix of local specialties, international flavors, and unique handmade crafts. From exploring vibrant local markets to indulging in delicious Caribbean cuisine, Bonaire has something to satisfy every palate and cater to every shopping desire.
Local Cuisine
If you find the kiosks too busy or closed, the main (and larger) Tourism Office is located behind the Protestant Church on Wilhelmina Square, right at the start of Kaya Grandi. Whatever you choose to see and do in Bonaire, it is easy and affordable to explore the Island on your own. With just a couple of streets to meander, Kralendijk is a jewel not to be missed, which is very for comfortable for disabled travelers. For those that wish to explore different sights and tractions, it is advisable to book a tour or an excursion. Although located in the center of Kralendijk, the one attraction that is not self-evident is the Terramar Museum. If you don't spot it straight away do ask for directions - this small museum is really worth a visit as it will take you on a journey through 7,000 years of Caribbean history.
What currency will you need if you visit Bonaire?
Most of Bonaire’s shopping is found in Kralendijk and is complimentary to most Caribbean Island shopping, offering dozens of boutique souvenir shops, advertising Bonaire, and the Caribbean. Pink Flamingoes are a popular attraction, as well as sea turtles and you will find more than your share of t-shirts, hats, and other items garnering the wildlife. Off the main street you will find several off-path shops, and strip malls. On Kaya Grandi - Kralendjik's main shopping street - the cruise visitorwill find some shops but don't expect to find the typical and ubiquitous ones found all over the Caribbean. Certainly, Bonaire is not a shoppers paradise like the sister islands of Aruba and Curacao.
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If you want to get your learning cap on, visit the Terramar Museum to get to grips with Bonaire’s past. (Classic.) Eventually the Dutch turned up, winning Bonaire in an almighty war, and turning the island into a major exporter of salt. Africans, Arawak and convicts were forced into slave labour on the island, until they were freed in 1862.
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The donkeys are descendants of donkeys brought over by the Spanish when they were going about their island-conquering business; once humans had no use for them any more, they were left to wander the island. It also means that bitterballen are regularly spotted on menus here, so all bitterballen fans visiting Bonaire, REJOICE. In case you get hungry or just want to refresh yourself, you can get some delicious food and drinks at the food truck at the beach. A very nice and relaxing beach with an outstanding view of the capital of Kralendijk and gorgeous sunsets.
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Attractions and Activities in Bonaire
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This is partly due to its location at the southern edge of the Caribbean Sea and the fact that nearby Aruba and Curacao have more robust ports. While the beaches and marine ecosystems may steal the show, there is plenty to do within the port itself and beyond! Cruise passengers should check out Wilhelmina Park or Bonaire Marine Park, one of the oldest marine reserves in the world.
Taxis are readily available at the cruise port, providing a convenient and hassle-free way to get around. If you prefer more independence, car rentals are also available, allowing you to explore at your own pace. This little island is just across the water from Bonaire cruise port, and is an incredible snorkeling location.
With close to 5 million passengers per year the Cruise Port of Miami is the busiest in the World. Located next to Downtown Miami, disembarking/embarking can be far from smooth and at times frustrating when up to 8 mega-ships are docked. The Cruise Port is 3-miles away from Montego Bay's, but both the old town and the island have top attractions and highlights that must be explored.
From the stunning beaches and vibrant coral reefs to the fascinating cultural and historical sites, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this Caribbean paradise. Beyond its underwater wonders, Bonaire boasts a unique landscape characterized by arid deserts, rugged hills, and sprawling cactus forests. The island’s semi-arid climate creates an ideal habitat for a variety of wildlife, including flamingos, iguanas, and parakeets. Exploring the natural beauty of Bonaire’s national parks, such as Washington Slagbaai National Park, is a must-do for nature lovers. On the other hand, if you decide to stay in Kralendijk, there are a few beautiful spots you can visit. Just a 10-minute walk from your cruise terminal, there is the Fort Oranje, a small 17th-century Dutch fortress that served as a government seat, fire, and police station.
As mentioned, the Bonaire cruise port is a short distance from some of Kralendijk’s main attractions. This includes an open-air shopping area, numerous tourist-friendly restaurants and bars, cafés, and a museum. The following timetable provides valuable information and keeps track of the future cruise shiparrivals from all major cruise lines.
One of its oddities is that it has three officially recognized languages – Dutch, Papiamento, and English. The following are just some of the reasons why any fan of adventure and exploration should seriously consider visiting Bonaire. All items are compatible with American and European prices, and ATM’s distribute money in U.S. dollars.
Both piers can handle full-sized cruise ships, but larger vessels tend to be directed to the Southern Pier. There are two cruise ship ports coming into Bonaire, just south of the main town of Kralendijk. Kralendijk offers visitors the greatest opportunity for things to do while on the island, especially if you are limited to a couple hours. Just a short walk from the pier is shopping, sightseeing, and travel opportunities if you wish to go deeper inland. Whether you’re an avid hiker, birdwatcher, or simply appreciate the wonders of nature, exploring Bonaire’s national parks is a rewarding experience.
But this small island has much more to offer than just underwater wonders. Kralendijk is the capital city and major port of Bonaire Island, one of the Leeward Islands located in the Caribbean Sea. The island is owned by the Netherlands, and while the main language in the capital is the creole language of Papiamentu, English and Dutch are also widely used just like in the motherland. While the area is the typical island paradise one might expect from the Caribbean, with the ground mostly covered with scrub and cacti, tourists come for the unique bird watching and scuba diving opportunities. The lack of vegetation is also good for the beautiful beaches in the capital.
Many of Bonaire’s beaches are narrow coral beaches which can be problematic for people going in bare foot, but wonderful for photographers and amazing views. The leeward side of the island is popular for swimming, especially at Lac Bay Beach and Soroban which are both shallow water and popular for families. There are several sightseeing tours and busses, however, one of the most popular tours on the island is the walking tour of Rincon which is the oldest settlement on the island. Walking tour booklets can be purchased for $5 at several Bonaire resorts and the Cadushy Distillery in Rincon.
With over 20 beaches in Bonaire, there is a handful of famous spots like the 1000 Steps Beach, No Name Beach in Kein Bonaire, Playa Palu di Mangel, Sorobon Beach or Te Amo Beach. If you prefer above water sports, Windsurfing at Jibe City, Kayaking, Kite-surfing, Sailing or Fishing are top activities to enjoy in Bonaire. The cruise traveler contemplating the idea of exploring the island at leisure may look into renting a car, a scooter or a bicycle. Scuba Diving and Snorkeling, beach activities, and a couple of usual cultural attractions and landmarks are the top highlights of Bonaire. Bonaire is the B on the island trio known as ABC - Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao. These island have a lot in common but cruise passengers shouldn't infer that if you “have seen one you have seen them all”.
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