Frequently asked questions
Where is Bonaire and how do I get there?
Bonaire is located 50 miles (80km) north of Venezuela and 86 miles (94 km) east of Aruba, in the southern Caribbean. It is part of the "ABC" island chain, outside of the hurricane belt. The island of Bonaire is 24 miles long (38.6 km) and 3-5 miles (4.8-8 km) wide, 112 sq. miles (180 sq km) in area. +/- 12,000 people. The island is relatively flat, quite arid, with easternly trade winds. Bonaire operates on Atlantic Standard Time, but no daylight savings changes.
There are several ways to come to Bonaire depending on your departing country.
From North America: Continental Airlines offers direct flights from Newark and Houston. Delta Airlines offers direct flights from Atlanta and New York. Other airlines such as American Eagle, offer one-stop flights via Puerto Rico, Jamaica, Aruba and Curacao.
From South America: KLM offers non-stop flights from Ecuador and Peru. Transaven airline offers non-stop service from Venezuela. From Brazil, Varig and Avianca offer one-stop service via Aruba. From Colombia, Avianca offers one-stop flights via Aruba
From Europe: KLM and Arkefly offer direct flights from Amsterdam to Bonaire.
High vs Low Season and the best time to visit? temperature range?
Bonaire's average temperature is 82° F (30° C) and 75% relative humidity. The average water temperature is 80° F (29° C). Rainfall averages 22" (52.8 cm) per year, with average windspeed of 15 mph (25 kph).
High Season (Winter/ Spring): Dec 15- Apr.14
Low Season (Summer/ Fall): Apr. 15- Dec. 14
Windy Season: May until August
Rainy Season: November until January
What languages are spoken?
Papiamentu (local language), Dutch, English and Spanish
What currency is used?
The US dollars is used in all businesses. Traveler's checks and credit cards are also widely accepted. Credit cards are not accepted in some supermarkets.
Local shopping and groceries?
There is a convenience store located just across the street from Blachi Koko Apartments, Joke's minimarket. Bigger supermarkets such as Cultimara and Warehouse are a 10 to 15 minute walk from the apartments.
You will find most shopping stores, restaurants and bars located in town, a short 5 minute walk.
What should I not bring?
Blachi Koko Apartments will provide you with linen and towels. We provide sheets, blankets and extra blankets in all the bedrooms. We provide towels as well as beach towels. The kitchen is fully equipped: kitchen towel, full range refrigerator, microwave/oven combination, stove, coffeemaker, toaster and complete cooking supplies and utensils.
Essentials to bring + Airport customs declaration?
Visitors over 15 are allowed 400 cigarettes, 50 cigars, 250 grams of tobacco, 2 liters of distillated beverages, 2 liters of wine.
Departure Tax for all international destinations is USD $36.00 per person, payable in cash or debit/credt card (American Express is not accepted). Must be payed prior to check-in. Departure Tax for Curacao and Aruba is less.
U.S. and Canadian citizens need proof of citizenship, a passport or certified birth certificate with a photo I.D. are required. All others require a valid passport. A return or continuing ticket is also required along with sufficient means to support yourself during your stay. Maximum stay: 14 days with the possibity or extending the visit to 90 days.
Taxes: Bonaire has agovernment tourist room tax of $5.50 per person per night. There is a 5% tax on car rental, meals, services and general purchases.
Can we drink the water?
The water is distilled from seawater and is perfectly safe to drink. Imported water is available.
What is the voltage on Bonaire?
127 volt, 50 cylce. 220 volt is also available. We can provide you with adaptors.
What about the Banks?
ABN/ AMRO Bank, Antilles Banking Corporation Bonaire, Banco de Caribe and Maduro & Curiel's Bank.
How much is it to use the swimming pool at the Plaza Resort?
To use the pool at Plaza Resort:
10 entries card = $30
(May be used with more than one person, 1 entry is deducted per person)
1 day pass = $5
Includes pool, tennis court, lounge chair, shower and chair.
