Bonaire is a year-round destination thanks to its warm, dry climate and consistent trade winds.

Bonaire’s official currency is the US dollar. Credit cards are widely accepted but be sure to have your passport or photo ID available. There are several banks with a 24-hour ATM available.

Bonaire operates on Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4), but without daylight savings (no summer time change).

The primary language spoken on the island of Bonaire is Dutch. However, due to its history and cultural diversity, several other languages are also spoken, including Papiamento, which is a creole language derived from Portuguese, Spanish, Dutch, and several West African languages. Additionally, English and Spanish are also commonly spoken, particularly in tourist areas.

We encourage all visitors to Bonaire to rent a car to explore the island. Cars are great for touring, getting you to your shore dive sites and taking you around town to sample the local cuisine. You do not need to obtain a local drivers license or permit to be able to drive on Bonaire, though you do need to be at least 23 years of age to rent a vehicle. Driving on Bonaire is most likely not the same as back home. We don’t have traffic lights, hardly any traffic jams and probably different rules about right of way. 

Yes, you can drink the tap water on Bonaire. The tap water on the island is distilled from seawater and is perfectly safe to drink.

The emergency number in Bonaire is 911.

Bonaire, a Dutch Caribbean island, offers a rich culinary experience with influences from various cultures, including Dutch, Caribbean, and Latin American. Here are some traditional foods you should try while visiting Bonaire:

1. Keshi Yena: This is a signature dish of Bonaire and is essentially a stuffed cheese dish. It typically consists of a hollowed-out round of Edam or Gouda cheese filled with a savory mixture of meats, vegetables, and spices. The cheese is then baked until it's gooey and delicious.

2. Goat Stew (Kabritu): Goat meat is commonly used in Caribbean cuisine, and Bonaire is no exception. Kabritu is a hearty stew made with tender pieces of goat meat cooked with onions, garlic, peppers, and a variety of spices. It's often served with rice and beans.

3. Funchi: Funchi is a staple side dish in Bonaire, similar to polenta. It's made from cornmeal that is boiled with water and then stirred until it becomes thick and smooth. Funchi is often served alongside main dishes as a starchy accompaniment.

4. Bollo: Bollo is a traditional Bonairean snack made from grated yucca (cassava), which is formed into balls and deep-fried until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It's often served with a spicy dipping sauce.

5. Yuana Soup: Yuana, or iguana, soup is a traditional delicacy in Bonaire. While it might not be for everyone, it's worth trying for the adventurous eater. The meat of the iguana is cooked in a flavorful broth with vegetables and spices.

6. Conch (Karkó): Conch is a popular seafood dish in Bonaire. It's prepared in various ways, including ceviche, fritters, or stewed in a rich tomato-based sauce. Conch meat is tender and has a slightly sweet flavor.

7. Pastechi: Pastechi is a type of savory pastry filled with various fillings such as cheese, chicken, beef, or fish. It's similar to empanadas and is often enjoyed as a snack or quick meal.

8. Funchi Fries: Funchi fries are a delicious twist on traditional fries made from funchi (cornmeal). They're crispy on the outside and soft on the inside and are often served with dipping sauces like aioli or ketchup.

9. Boniato: Boniato is a type of sweet potato commonly found in the Caribbean. It's often served boiled or mashed and makes for a tasty side dish or addition to soups and stews.

These are just a few of the traditional foods you should try while visiting Bonaire to get a taste of the island's rich culinary heritage.