With the exception of avid scuba divers, relatively few travelers are likely to be familiar with the Caribbean destination of Bonaire, part of the “ABC Islands” (along with Aruba and Curacao).
But that under-the-radar vibe is part of what makes the island particularly appealing to travelers in the COVID-19 era, as a lack of crowds and a wealth of outdoor opportunities make it ideal for socially distanced experiences, according to Crystel Pourier, U.S. and Canada representative for Tourism Corporation Bonaire.. What’s more, Bonaire’s longstanding dedication to environmental protection is sure to appeal to the growing swath of travelers who are looking to make more sustainable vacation choices.
Here, Pourier shares news from the island, including entry requirements, health and safety initiatives and other details about what travelers can expect during a visit to Bonaire.
How has Bonaire fared during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Here on Bonaire, we made the most of an otherwise challenging year by spending our time improving our offerings in anticipation of providing an even better guest experience with hotel openings, renovations and expansions, community beautification projects and culinary additions. We, like the rest of the world, are continuing to work toward a strong recovery with safety in mind for our locals and visitors alike.
How has the island’s tourism industry been doing since borders reopened to travel?
While we opened up to Americans back in October, direct flights to the island only resumed at the beginning of June. Currently, we’re receiving weekly direct lift from Atlanta and Miami and hope to add more in the coming months, including Canada. We’ve seen an uptick in tourism from our European markets, but we’re still in the early stages of welcoming back our North American segment.
What are the current entry requirements for U.S. travelers visiting Bonaire?
Bonaire requires a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival to the island and a negative antigen test taken within 24 hours of departure. There is an alternative to the two tests for entry into Bonaire — a Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT) may be taken 24 hours or less prior to departure from the U.S. And we recently added the availability of rapid antigen testing at our airport to help travelers adhere to the island’s current COVID-19 testing protocol.
Travelers must also fill out Bonaire's Health Declaration Form between 72 and 48 hours before their departure.
Editor's Note: The COVID-19 policies and procedures listed are up-to-date as of press time. However, we encourage all readers to head to each individual country’s governmental tourism website prior to travel to confirm the information regarding entry protocols.
The fact that Bonaire is not an over-touristed destination, with less people and more outdoor space, naturally lends itself well to safety.
What should U.S. travelers know about visiting Bonaire right now? What can they expect during their trip?
he fact that Bonaire is not an over-touristed destination, with less people and more outdoor space, naturally lends itself well to safety. Bonaire was also quick to respond [to the COVID-19 pandemic] and has remained diligent about monitoring arrivals and putting proper testing protocols in place to not only protect visitors, but also the local community.
With that in mind, visitors can expect exactly what we’ve long been known for: plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, from snorkeling to land sailing; safe outdoor dining options, from food trucks to upscale cuisine; untouched natural beauty; and friendly locals with a rich cultural heritage waiting to welcome them. Bonaire offers a raw authenticity that includes historic landmarks, a simpler and unhurried way of living and desert landscapes brimming with wildlife.
Bonaire boasts a distinctive desert landscape and offers unique outdoor activities such as land sailing.
Credit: 2021 Tourism Corporation BonaireAre there any health and safety measures on the island that travelers should know about?
Most recently, Tourism Corporation Bonaire, in collaboration with the Bonaire Hotel and Tourism Association (BONHATA) and the Public Entity Bonaire, announced the launch of the Bonaire Friendly Safety Seal (BFSS), a new certification program designed to give visitors an even deeper sense of security during their stay in terms of health and safety, while also providing that same security to locals. The goal of the program is to improve island-wide hygiene and safety protocols, and to ensure that tourism-related businesses meet the required standards, which will include several protocols, policies and an on-site inspection in order to obtain the official BFSS seal.
What makes Bonaire an attractive destination to visit at this time?
With more flamingos than people, [Bonaire is a lesser-known island that] many travelers may not have heard of — but that’s also what makes Bonaire the Caribbean’s best-kept secret. While it will forever be known for its epic scuba diving, there’s so much more to this beautiful and secluded destination just waiting to be uncovered. Brimming with outdoor activities, from beachfront dining to exploring the off-the-beaten-path backcountry, Bonaire is an ideal destination for foodies, nature enthusiasts and adventure-seekers looking for warmer waters, colorful culture and plenty of space to roam. Sitting outside the hurricane belt, [the destination’s] year-round warm weather and calm, pristine waters also make this an enjoyable island for every season.
What are Bonaire’s tourism plans for the rest of 2021 and 2022?
While we continue to make improvements on the island to appeal to discerning travelers, we’re doing so with a continued commitment to protecting our precious nature, from our coral reefs and beaches to our marine and land wildlife. Bonaire will continue to be a world leader in sustainable growth as we are the world’s first Blue Destination, a certification that is aligned with our culture, history and heritage as a people who have embraced and protected our all-important ocean for generations.
Right now, we’re very much looking forward to welcoming visitors, old and new, with our “Bonaire Misses You” island-wide initiative. The campaign offers a 10% savings on a variety of accommodations, car rentals, dining, diving, tours and more [for travel until Nov. 15, 2021]. Travelers can find a list of all participating parties and a voucher online. As an added bonus, those who book a vacation at a participating hotel, apartment or villa will receive a complimentary welcome drink of Cadushy Distillery’s award-winning and locally produced Rom Rincon.
What’s the best way for travel advisors to stay up to date on the destination?
Travel agents can subscribe to our mailing list to receive updates. They can also send an email to [email protected] for more information.
The Details
Tourism Corporation Bonaire
