After several days of reading comments in regard to my initial post I felt compelled to share with BT’s something I had not shared earlier. At that time I did not believe that it was pertinent but as time went on and noticing that some of the responses were getting away from the real issue at hand, I made the decision to do so. However, when I went to add this I noticed that the thread had been closed and understandably why. I would appreciate it very much if you would post this if possible. It is not try and generate more comments but rather share the reason for the post went further than just reporting a burglary and robbery. I believe that it may be the proper way to close the thread…since I started it, please allow me to close it.

As stated in my earlier post, I had traveled to Bonaire for the first time in July of 2002 and was completely taken back by the island, its diving, the inhabitants and the island as a whole. Thirteen of us stayed at the Caribbean Court and I’ll never forget that as we returned from a dive on the 4th of July the maintenance man at the condos was running the American flag up one of the flagpoles out front. He made the statement that his country was still indebted to the U.S. for being its ally during World War II and it was only right that they share in helping us celebrate the day of our independence. This display was pretty awesome and touched all of us tremendously. It was also my first diving of ocean reefs since becoming SCUBA certified in 2000. After that first trip and even after a trip last year to Grand Cayman anyone who talked to me instantly knew how I felt about Bonaire and that it was always my first choice for a dive vacation. This year’s dive trip was also my youngest daughter’s first reef diving as well and I had already thought of returning in 2006 for my middle daughter’s first ocean dive as she just received her SCUBA certification this past month. It was also my fiancés first trip to the island and despite what happened Bonaire is where I proposed to her.

Bonaire has always been very special to me…so special that approximately five months ago I researched the police department in order to see what it would take to get hired. I have been eligible for retirement since 2000 and had decided that I would like to live there and work there if possible. I found a website, Bonaire.net and found a short article titled reorganization of the police force and a business plan as well dated May 2001. Although I was concerned with my lack of knowledge of the Papiamentu and Dutch language I still sent a request for information regarding the qualifications and requirements for becoming a police officer and my resume to the Bonaire Police Department via e-mail. I felt as though if I had rose to rank of Captain within department of 280+ personnel in a city of more the 150,000 persons I surely had some skills and knowledge that would benefit the country of Bonaire. I must say that I kept a positive attitude toward hopefully achieving this goal.

The burglary and robbery that occurred while on vacation was discovered on the morning of July 11th and despite what happened I still turned my resume in. However I did not turn it in the Chief of Police as planned, but to the Minister of Justice’s Office for two local business men stated that I might get better results by turning it in there. This caused me some concern as to why they suggested that but I read between the lines that maybe as far the police department went, there was a lot left to be desired. I have not gotten to where I have in my career by doing nothing and it was extremely disappointing for me to experience and see the events unfold as they did.

I would like for all BT’ s and others to understand that I did not write the first post to discourage other’s from traveling to Bonaire for they will have to make their own choices in that regard. This I would never do. I posted my story to make people aware of what could happen and encourage them to take the necessary precautions and measures to ensure that they have a safe and enjoyable vacation. This applies to wherever they may travel. What is apparently is becoming a frequently occurring problem places several extremely important things into jeopardy, the tourism of Bonaire, its reputation and the welfare of the tourists and how they perceive the island and its inhabitants. These are vital elements which must be preserved at all cost. It was apparent that a large percentage of the responses to my first post feel the same. This is a positive and if these comments and concerns are repeated enough to the right places and persons, demanding more positive actions to these type incidents then we have done our part. The responses that I will refer to as “jaw jacking and unrelated” deserve no comment and I think you were right for closing the thread at that time for the focus of the thread had been lost. I encourage all who are concerned with the future of Bonaire and these incidents to write to every government office and representative available and make your concerns known. Last but not least do ask for action to be taken, demand it for it is not intended for citizens to answer to the government but for the government to answer to the people.

In closing let me add that I am not naïve enough to believe that crime is not going to exist in every part of the world but I do know that failure to acknowledge to what extent it does exist is the greatest mistake that can be made. This is the area that I firmly believe that can be controlled and needs to be done so at once. Lets all hope for the future of Bonaire and what I still consider the most awesome dive site that I have ever visited, this happens quickly and without fail.

Bonaire is a place I fell in love with and regardless of what has taken place still means a great deal to me and am very concerned with its’ future.

Thanks so much,

Neil Godbee

__________________________________________________
I felt as though if I had rose to rank of Captain within department of 280+ personnel in a city of more the 150,000 persons I surely had some skills and knowledge that would benefit the country of Bonaire.
__________________________________________________

I think whoever is hired as a police officer or police chief will be dumb as a stump and easy to control. Thats just how it is in small places. The ones in power want things the way they are or they wouldnt be that way, right? You are probably overqualified and would bring more problems (read that: solutions) than the island can afford.




__________________________________________________
demand it for it is not intended for citizens to answer to the government but for the government to answer to the people.
__________________________________________________

Were talking Holland here, not the USA. I dont know how the dutch feel about it.
Good luck to you Neil. Thanks so much for your concern, were all worried about Bonaire.

Neil,
Very sorry to hear about your experience. My wife and I were on the island from mid-June to July 11. Stayed just south of you and drove by your place around 6:30 that morning on our way to the airport. This was our 8th year in a row on the island. I don't often post but want to share my opinion. Over the past several years I have stated on this board that it is only a matter of time until some visitor wakes up to find a thug in the room and then takes a knife to them. I have felt that's what it will take to get the authorities to act. I've changed my thinking. I'm not sure even that will cause them to respond. As previously stated on your first posting, the authorities know who these criminals are and this could be cleaned up in short order. However, they are family of the police or friends of the family, etc.; it's a small island. As many suspect, the police may even benefit from these crimes. The year to year deterioration on Bonaire is very apparent and visible by just looking at the young thugs, drug dealers and "wanna-be's" who hang out on main street and the waterfront. Every year gets a little worse. There is an ever-growing influence of the criminal element from Curacao. This could be stopped at the airport if they wanted to. We were warned this year by a restaurant owner who we have become friends with not to walk down a certain steet after dark. This would never have happened 5 years ago. I am confident that in the next year or two we will read of tourists being assaulted and robbed in the downtown area at night or at their hotel or villa. Every year we visit at the same time - June - July. It is clear the last few years that tourism has been impacted. This year in particular there were fewer visitors and divers. Numerous business owners commented about this. It is beyond me to understand why the business owners of Bonaire won't band together and apply their collective influence to pressure Bonaire's government (whether it be in Bonaire, Curacao or Holland) into cleaning this up. Certainly they have the most to lose. We fell in love with Bonaire for the beautiful reefs, diving freedom, friendly people and the laid-back safe comfortable atmosphere that used to exist. The diving by itself isn't enough to put yourself at risk for or to constantly have to be worrying about your safety while on vacation. BONAIRE - WAKE UP BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE!!!!

Neil, I did not read anywhere in your post anything which tried to dissuade others from going to Bonaire. I read a sad account of your experience. Again I thank you for taking the time to make your original post.

Your post prompted me to talk to others who live and work there, either in person or via e-mail. I am still going in October, and as always I hope to be vigilant in observing who is around me as well as assessing my surroundings. Because of your post, I am making sure, should I have a similar bad experience, to be protected (financially).

The diving is only part of the reason I go to Bonaire sir. I am fortunate in that many of people I have encountered on the island over the years have become friends.

Thanks for caring and taking the time to make this post as well.

A little bit off subject, but I still think the best place to write it:
The Extra from tomorrow (I just read it on the Internet) has a big article about a letter from the Bonairean member of parlament Mrs. Gina Elhage to the Minister of Justice on Curacao.... for Antillean standards a real sharp letter ... in the line that the citizens of Bonaire have enough of crime, it is damaging tourism, it makes live difficult... there is no functioning police force on Bonaire, it is a chaos since years and none of the problems have been solved etc....
Have there perhaps been not only locals but also a lot of BT's writing e-mails to the government ???
Let's now hope that they see it as a beginning to end up to ask the DutchMP to come to Bonaire .... I like to be optimistic !!!

Otis,

Your message is eloquent and to the point. I am deeply saddened by development of this kind of activity-petty theft in an unoccupied vehicle is one thing, intrusion and assault another. Bonaire has been my favorite island in my somewhat limited experience.

I was also saddened by the posts placed by some on the closed thread. While everyone is entitled to their opinion, I didn't find it humorous and I hate when this happens on this board-I've experienced some similar things on other boards, and always have felt, for the most part, the BT folks were above that.

I hope you are recovering and that you experienced a catharsis in telling your story. I think it was an important one, and I didn't find that you misused your experience at all to try to bash Bonaire.

Niel, I am saddened by your experience as a tourist on Bonaire and regret the lack of concern exhibited by the police. They don't exhibit any concern towards citizen either, but I'm sure that is no consolation. As a former resident of the island, I look at the non-confrontational nature of the culture and seriously wonder if there will be a day when there is truely a state of law enforcement. And although I'm sure they need your skills, I'm not sure they will want the resources you offer as an outsider.... Local people taking measures into their own hands (a la wowo di bario not vigilanty-ism) is what I see making a difference.....or, sadly, the hoteliers taking the all-inclusive-walled-in-complex approach seen on so many other islands. That would spoil the charm of a quaint place. I hope that the government wakes up to the danger of ignoring this problem before there is a collapse in tourism; the government could care less about it's own people being victimized.

I hope that allerting tourists to the need for hyper-vigilance is enough for the short term. That's part of the role this board plays - knowledge is power and hopefully empowering. Thanks for sharing your experience and I wish you happy times on Bonaire in the future.

Dara

---"I hope that allerting tourists to the need for hyper-vigilance is enough for the short term. That's part of the role this board plays - knowledge is power and hopefully empowering."---

This statement is SO much hitting the nail on the head! The fact that we are blessed with this forum and can talk about all our experiences, both good and bad, can only be a good thing! I know some less than perfect trip reports have gotten my wheels turning and DH & I have very much reconsidered purchasing property on the island, for now. However, we will probably continue to return, at our own risk, for our annual dive getaways.

Let's pray that a solution will come and swiftly...........


Kobi

Thanks again Neil for sharing and I hope you don't face a situation of this nature again in the future.

Carl

Otis, I second and third what others have written above. If you read my last post under geologydave, you will see why I am very into this topic. Although my crime experience was nowhere near the extent of yours, I was still violated as a human being by other human beings. As you, Bonaire is a very special place for me. I have Bonairean friends, whom I really consider to be friends. We had a death in my family while on Bonaire, and my man Luty sat with me for two hours while my wife made a night dive. It was already scheduled with her, she was not going to go, but Luty told her he would stay with me. That is a friend. He also cooked a kick a$$ dinner that night as well. As I said before, he has been robbed 5 times. He is just one of my friends on Bonaire. I am deeply worried about this little piece of the world. What really could be almost Utopia is turning into hell. It can be saved because of the size and population. It just needs the right people to do so. Obviously, the present leadership is looking the other way on its citizens. Sound familiar? My friends, and fellow BT'ers, please send emails and concerns to the links that were posted. As in America, politicians will act under pressure of losing their beloved seats.

Gedeputeerde van Tourism: - director of tourism
Burney Elhage
elhage@bonairelive.com
Bestuurskantoor
Plasa Wilhelmina
Kralendijk Bonaire
Phone +717-4020


Gezaghebber Herbert Domacasse: - head of Bonaire police
gezag@bonairelive.com
Bestuurskantoor
Plasa Wilhelmina
Kralendijk Bonaire
Phone +717-5330 tst. 220

Ramonsito Booi ( Statenlid)
rtbooi@bonairelive.com
Ministerraad Bonaire
J.A. Abraham Blvd.
Kralendijk Bonaire
Phone +717-5330 tst 117/118

Extra Bonaire - Bonaire's newspaper
E-mail Address(es):
extrabon@telbonet.an

Dept of Bonaire tourism: info@tourismbonaire.com

Neil ,
thanks again for the way you put your story into words.
How alarming the crime is and will become needs no further explanation . By nature , things go downhill faster than uphill . Let's just hope that many people are willing to make the difference by not accepting these crimes to happen .
Like many more have stated in one form or the other , make them listen!
One of my motto's is :"put a price tag on it ; that WILL make them think"

Jos.

PS : wouldn't it be ironic if indeed YOU would be hired by the Bonairan police to "clean up a bit"

Neil, you should not feel bad about one thing in your original post. Im going to bonaire in august if i could get my $ back from my travel agent i would. My first time in bonaire should be a trip to think about in good terms i dont even want to go now. A least at buddys they have a secerity box in the room i hope that helps. I would'nt have taken this trip if i knew i was this out of control.

Hey Neal..You'd get my vote in a second for a top position in the Bonaire police dept.. And I'm sure many others on this board would second that!!I suspect though it would be VERY different from what you're accustomed to.

Best of luck to you & thanks for your posting.. It provided the impetus for many ideas & suggestions. It's just so dam unfortunate that several bad apples coupled with a non chalant attitude amongst some of the powers that be can create such havoc to the island's reputation & inevitably it's economy. Hopefully, as Bonaire has risen to the occasion in protecting it's reefs they will act in their best interests on this issue. And that interest is to protect tourism which is at least as valuable as her coral reefs.

I have sent off a fairly strong letter to all of the persons listed with links, as above. I only hope there are more and that our attempts to get someone's attention works. It has to. No question about it.

Joe and I will return to Bonaire next year. These incidents have drawn our attention and our ire, as well. We want to see what difference we can make on "this" end of the keyboard now.

Thanks, Neil, for taking the time to talk to us and express your feelings. I only wish it had not happened, but it did. Something must be done, and soon.

Start writing, folks! Carole and Joe

Strongly worded letter sent to all parties listed above by our dive group.

When you count the trips you've made and multiply it by the total dollars you have spent on the island......it adds up! Can they afford to lose those dollars? Their actions will tell....

This discussion got somebody's attention. Today's downloadable Extra has this story, which cites Bonaire Talk, on p. 1:

Si no bini solushon pa kantidat grandi di ladronisia kontra turista, turistana menasando pa no bini Bonaieru mas.

If there is no solution to the large quantity of theft against tourists, tourists say they won't come to Bonaire any more.

I wrote a letter to The Gov. and others and clips and a story were printed the 27th in the local Dutch political newspaper.

How many people here have had their houses or cars broken into where they live? When I was a kid, we had our house boken into twice, and my car has been broken into twice. I live in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada - which really has a relatively low crime rate compared to most US cities.

My point is that you have to keep things in perspective. Bonaire is not an island full of criminals - and neither is the city where you live. No matter where you go there are going to be bad apples.

I found online that the US crime rate in 2001 was 41.6 crimes per 1000 people - this includes all crimes from property offenses to murders. Bonaire has approiximately 13,000 people (found this online - is this correct?) That means if it were to have the same crime rate as the US there would have to be 541 crimes commited each year - and this doesn't even take into account the tourist population. I doubt there are even that many crimes commited. It just seems worse because you're on holidays. . .

Darryl

Good point Darryl - but you should also include the 30,000 plus visitors in your calculation as well - they are just as much targets.

OK,
So if you include the 30k visitors (I actually thought it was closer to 50k . . ), that means that to have an equivalent crime rate there would have to be 1789 crimes commited per year in Bonaire - that's almost 5 per day . . .

Darryl

I live in Lowell, MA. - very much a "working class" community, not affluent at all - and never have had any breakins or damage done to vehicles in the 12 years I've lived here. As far as I am aware, no one in my condo complex has either, in the time I've lived here. No one who's lived here in this small complex (33 units) longer has ever mentioned experiencing crime.

I have a garage door and occasionally have driven off without closing it, to find nothing missing when I come home hours later.

I feel quite safe going out at night in my neighborhood. I can drive to downtown and park, go out to eat, and come back and my car has not been broken into. "Downtown" is not bustling, particularly at night, and there are areas just a few blocks from there where I would NOT go.

But people have been robbed, molested, broken into, had their cars stolen, etc. etc. etc., in Lowell. They reported it, there were police investigations, often the criminals are caught.

I haven't experienced it. If I were, I'd probably move. I also feel quite sure that were I to experience crime the police would show up, investigate it, and there would be a better than even chance that person would go to jail.

Just because statistics say I'm more likely to experience crime in Lowell doesn't mean I will.

Just because we don't hear about a lot of crime on Bonaire doesn't mean there isn't a lot more going on than we know. I'm becoming more and more convinced, from having spoken with people who live there (and barricade themselves in at night)and from noting the lack of crime reports in Bonaire newspapers vs. the reports we see on-line (that never make it to the news reports) that the police attitude exists in part to maintain that lie - if they don't investigate it, they don't have to report it and it doesn't become a statistic.

That's the attitude that has to change.

Susan,
That argument works both ways though. Just because we hear about lots of crime on this BB, doesn't mean there is lots. It could just mean that everyone who is a victim of crime posts it on this board. If that was the case then the crime rate on Bonaire is unbelievably low.

Just because statistics say I'm more likely to experience crime in Bonaire doesn't mean I will.

Just because we hear about a lot of crime on this board doesn't mean there is a lot going on.
Darryl

Except that reading the people who tell of their first hand experiences here, never show up in the Bonaire Reporter version of a "Police Log". I check, all the time. Nada.

And I spent an evening with Captain Don and Janet the last time we were there. There's a LOT more going on that doesn't ever get in the papers.

I want my travel agent to give me my money back for my trip in august.

I've lived in rural towns and in a big city. In our rural town we have a police force that's quite responsive. While we were away, wind blew open an improperly secured door, setting off an alarm. We received a report from the officers who checked the house and secured everything. When there's an issue, they arrive in minutes.

When I lived in New York, I felt safe too. Certainly there were better and worse places to be, but the police work hard to keep things safe, and to investigate when something does happen.

Perspective isn't the issue. Crime happens everywhere. Response is the issue. When you have something stolen from you, and the locals tell you to not even bother reporting it to the police, that is a really bad sign. Policing is both a proactive and reactive business.

Perception of a police force doing nothing yields higher crime rates. Reality of a police force repeatedly doing nothing results in escalating crime problems.

Will I return to Bonaire? Yes, occasionally. But since we ourselves were victims of petty theft in 2001, we've been back once for vacation (and I was back recently to move the webcam system). The crime situation has definitely affected our choice of vacation destination and likely will continue to weigh in our choices for some time.

I'm mad about this, yes. I used to be one of the people who said, "Yeah, but it's all PETTY crime!" The problem is, it's not that petty anymore. People get hard time for these types of crimes in the US. The fact that the perpetrators are known by the police but not in jail is an insult and disservice to the law-abiding people of Bonaire and the tourists who visit and support Bonaire's economy. It's hard to imagine a more inept and embarrassing police force and public policy.

I'm still going back - at least this October. I still really love Bonaire (again, I haven't been a victim there - if I were, I'd probably change my mind.)

I also have only stayed at Captain Don's Habitat, where we've always felt secure. We've left our wetsuits and booties outside to dry (often down at the dock rather than outside our room) and they've been there the next morning. We've seen a security guard walking around at night. Heck, I'd be a bit worried if Jack Chalk caught me breaking in to one of HIS guest's rooms.

We'd toyed with the idea of renting a villa with a couple of friends, but with this new rash of incidents, that's on indefinite hold. The Habitat is great, thank you just the same.

I sincerely hope that the government of Bonaire and the Netherland Antilles wakes up and smells the coffee soon. I don't want to stop going to Bonaire, but if nothing significant and lasting is done to clean up the police force and make them do their jobs, it may be the only sane decision I can make about this. It's not going to get any better all on its own, and can only get worse if not stopped soon.

I would like thank the Captain for his comments and add my agreement. And my support for someone of his skills to be added to the Bonaire PD.

Off Topic Rant
At the risk of allowing the topic to further stray, a few words about crime statistics. Using and comparing crime statistics is a tricky business.

There are at least three major types: a) Victimization surveys (done by phoning random individuals and asking about the past year -- were they a victim, if so of what, etc.); b) Crime rates (which is really the rate at which incidents are reported to the police) and c) arrest rates. Each have their own use and their own limitations.

For example, victimization surveys are expensive and complex so they are done less frequently and rarely (if at all) at the city level. For example, the only routine one I am aware of is a national one. That said, they are the best measure of what is really happening in terms of criminal incidents. This is because much crime is unreported for a variety of reasons (victim sees it as pointless, cultural distrust of police, victim afraid of being arrested due to outstanding warrants, etc.) Of course, the survey cannot accurately address crimes without a victim.

Crime rates are the most frequently cited source as the data is both abundant and available. Different cultures tend to report crimes at different rates (especially if police are distrusted). Different cities sometimes aggregate their data differently (conduct that is assault in one state may not be in another). Perhaps most important, as the incidents of crime increase the rate at which it is reported often decline and vice versa. (I once lived in an area of the US w/marginal LE coverage -- if I had a vehicle prowl that was not insurance claimable, I never reported. They would take many hours to get there and no investigation.) This explains the situation where a neighborhood is better (everyone says so) and yet the "crime rate" goes up.

Finally, there is arrest rate (and conviction rate) data. This is the first time when you are able to sort through and figure out who might be committing crimes -- male/female, juvenile/adult, locals/transients, etc. This is also the first place you get real data on "victimless" crimes. Still, this is way far down the line and is affected by many discretionary decisions.

Finally, a word on exposure. A crime rate is generally x crimes/thousand. That means for 1,000 people who were "at risk" of being victims during that entire year. To add tourists in to the denominator (and you would want to), you would need to determine the average daily tourist population -- not the total number of tourists.

Three final caveats:
a) None of the statistics matter much if/when you are a victim -- that will tend to drive *your* perception of crime;
b) None of the statistics speak very well to *your* chance of being a victim. Are you a gang backed street level drug dealer? Are you a person who takes reasonable safety precautions and lives in a safer part of the same town? Your odds of being a crime victim are very different. Your inclination to report a crime is likely very different as well.
C) None of this should be construed as a comment (either way) about crime in Bonaire. I already said my piece about my perceptions (summary: not as safe as ten years ago, but not really dangerous either)

Putting away the soapbox...
Off soapbox.

It is with sadness that I write this thread to the above message. We will be in Bonaire in September for what will probably be our last trip to the island. Although the gas from our truck was siphoned last October while we did a night dive at the Salt Pier, we couldn't wait to make our return trip reservations - our 15th since 1987! Petty crime is one thing, the extent and escalation of crime is quite another. Where are all the stolen items fenced? How can the police not know who is involved? How do you not find two vehicles on an island the size of Bonaire? How does a locked and padlocked gate open? How do locking gas caps get removed and then replaced? This is not petty crime, it is organized crime. Someone is buying the stolen tires, selling stolen dive gear, giving out keys to locking gas caps, handing over keys to house and gate locks. A beautiful, gorgeous, unique island is at risk because of the thugs that steal from the tourists and the thugs in the police department that refuse to do anything about it. How very very sad.

______________________
it is organized crime
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Its funny. I read somewhere about a diver on a trip to Fiji with an unknown dive-op who saw about 10 BCs with Bonaire Marine Park tags on them. I wonder if divers who used the dive-op sold them their BCs? Or!!, maybe the BCs just washed up on the beach. Hmmmm, yes, they must have just washed up on the beach.

David,
Good point about the stats. If the average stay is 10 days, it works out to about 820 tourists on the island at one time.

Susan and rest,
The problem I have with a lot of these posts is that they are simply spreading rumours, gossip , and theories - very few are fact based. Person A hears a rumour, tells person B, who tells person C, etc. By the time is reaches person D its considered a fact. The internet just makes this so much easier to do. You see stuff like this happen on bulliten boards all over the place, with completely different subjects. People, I think, tend to attibute more truth to something just because they read it.

I still honestly believe this as all being blown out of proportion.

Darryl

As genuinely well meant as all your concerns and offerings are, I would like everyone to take back a few steps and not jump to any conclusions or assumptions. Let's not forget that this is a Bonairian problem first, even more than a tourist problem. We ourselves suffer the most from it. Everyone coming here is a guest in our "house" and you may expect that house to be in order. But only we can demand that it is made in order and take the steps to do so. Most offered solutions aren't even possible on this island; comparing our situation to the US or even Holland is meaningless.
A lot more is going on behind the screens, a lot more difficulties have to be overcome and a lot more progress is being made than you all can and will know about. If you want to help, keep coming to Bonaire and spend money; because in the end, it always comes down to that. You may expect results and new initiatives for the short and longer term soon.

I agree with Darryl; it is blown out of proportion. But lines have been crossed, and we have to stop it now before it grows worse. I'm confident we will.

I'm sure that as soon as the government starts taking real action, the situation will definitely take a turn for the better. Actions do speak louder than words and promises. Coach Izzy

Darryl
'blown out of proportion' - I agree totally, some of the posts verge on the hysterical, an example of which was the responses to the 'sleeping gas theory'. In such situations apply Occam's razor - the simplest solution is usually the correct one - I use the same principle when dealing with conspiracy theorists. Just to raise a potentially somewhat controversial point - I notice that most of the more 'exciteable' posts in terms of boycott's, 'we'll go somewhere else' etc etc tend to come from our American brethren. I know Bonaire is principally a US divers destination (never heard another Brit voice when we were there last) but is there perhaps an element in this of the US citizens desire for max security beyond what is perhaps realistic. I'm prepared to be shot down on this...........

Marc,

When, and if, there are useful things that we out here can do to help make progress there on Bonaire, please then do come to us.

As they say here in the US, non carborundum est, translated as 'don't let the bastards get you down'.

Andrew, last summer as I was on my way off the island, I picked up one a paper that was published in English on the island (don't remember what it was), and apparantly, Holland and England have more folks coming to the island than folks from the U.S...they had the statistics listed, and clearly Holland and England were higher in number...

Marc, glad to see you chime in, and ditto to Glen's remark...

[I posted this as its own thread - not seeing Neil's second post]:

Although the thread has been closed, I would like to take a moment to comment on Neil’s “Burglarized and Robbed, Vehicle Stolen and Aftermath” post.

MY EXPERIENCE ON BONAIRE

I thoroughly empathize with Neil’s situation. Indeed, in 2001 (on only my 3rd trip to Bonaire with my father), a rock was thrown through the window of our vehicle and my rather expensive 35mm Canon SLR camera (with 2 lenses) was stolen. Although we filed a police report, we were candidly informed that the likelihood of recovering the camera was slim.

It was explained that it is very easy to remove stolen items from the island by boat to be brought to Curaçao for “hocking”. It was what it was. Was I angry? Yes. Was I disappointed? Yes. However, when I returned home, I filed a claim with my homeowner’s/renter’s insurance carrier and it was paid.

Conversely, I find it somewhat comforting that most crime on Bonaire is just theft. Bodily crimes are indeed rare. (And, yes, I fully recognize the slight increase in murders on the island; however, these rarely involve tourists.) Thus, it is fortunate indeed that, despite gaining access to Neil’s home – including the bedrooms, no one was injured.

“KNOCK-OUT” GAS

Turning to the “sleeping gas,” I have also apparently been a victim of this. One commenter on the previous thread suggested that this “technique” (for lack of a better word) has been used in Europe for some time. In 1992-93, I was studying in Europe. Over the Christmas holiday I traveled through Spain. I was returning to France on an overnight (“red eye”) train on a Sunday for classes resuming on Monday. When I awoke, my “fanny pack” was missing. I found a conductor and reported the theft. Mind you: I thought I was being careful. I wrapped a portion of the strap around my wrist and used the fanny pack as part of my pillow. It was nonetheless stolen. The conductor & I searched the restrooms from car-to-car. We found my pack in the garbage in a men’s room. The only thing missing was my U.S. passport. everything else was intact: my wallet, my train tickets, my credit cards and, yes, even my cash. The thief only wanted my U.S. passport which, I am told, at the time could fetch up to $8000 on the black market.

I was, of course, held up at the French border since I did not have my passport. I was required to return to Barcelona (the closest consulate), having my father fax me my birth certificate, etc., get a new photo and obtain a new passport (after spending the night in Barcelona – after all, it was a Sunday).

When I filed my report with the police at Port Bou, I was informed that thieves often used a “knock out” gas to ensure their victims would not wake up. I was given the name of the gas at the time, but have since forgotten. Thus, I believe (and have on good authority) that such gases do exist, are inexpensive and are frequently used.

GENERAL COMMENTS

While I thoroughly empathize with Neil and his travel entourage, the fact remains that crime exists everywhere. It is not limited to Bonaire. I live in a relatively wealthy suburb of NYC. There is crime there. It is a fact of life.

In my opinion, it is infinitely worse to suffer crime while on vacation or when outside of your home country. Then again, that’s often where it happens. Tourists are always easy targets. You go away in search of the proverbial “rest & relaxation” only to suffer more stress than you would at home. Reprehensible!

Based on Neil’s experience as well as my own, it is clear that the Bonaire police are unable to effectively protect from and investigate crimes. This is unfortunate. That being said, in speaking with locals, it is a small island. Often those who commit the crimes have relatives or friends within the police department or in other political or influential positions. This is no different than major U.S. cities except that the population on Bonaire is much smaller. Undoubtedly, this is a disincentive to investigate and prosecute local criminals.

I own property on Bonaire. I visit at least a couple times a year. My parents likewise visit a couple times a year. My only personal experience with crime is that described above. However, the house contains a safe. All valuables – when not with me – are kept in that safe. If you travel to Bonaire, you should ensure that your local residence has a safe. If it does, USE IT.

Some tend to recommend not visiting Bonaire. I disagree. Why do people keep going back? The diving is great. The trip is relatively short compared to other destinations. Best of all: the shore dives. You do not need to take a boat to experience great diving. All of the reefs a protected as national parks. This helps preserve them. It is outside the hurricane belt. You can travel there in the fall and be virtually assured you will not experience a storm. These are all great reasons to visit Bonaire and keep going back.

To those who lament the crime situation, I urge to take Brigitte’s advice and write letters to those identified asking or demanding more security on the island. It’s all well and good to “hope” that the powers that be are monitoring this board. However, a letter directly to the powers that be is much more effective. If you own or are seeking to purchase property on Bonaire, you must do this. If you are a regular visitor, express your concerns. Tell the powers that be that you may not be back until the crime situation is addressed. After all, other than salt, tourism is the mainstay of Bonaire’s economy.

As you may guess, I am a firm believer in taking action. I equally believe that there is power in numbers. Once I have an opportunity, I intend to write the individuals identified by Brigitte. I, again, urge you to do so as well.

I’d love to know that you all will continue to visit and I would love to feel more secure when I visit.

GMLII, I removed your new tread to keep the discussion focused on one tread.

Martin de Weger
Co-moderator

GMLIII, well said. I sent my letters (emails)off last week...haven't received a response from anyone to date. Just in case there has been a telbo problem with the Internet connections on the island I will resend them this evening when I return home. Join in, everyone. Carole

folks,
I have read with great concern about your posts over recent burglaries on Bonaire. In fact, I got robbed twice while living on Bonaire til April this year. Im reading now with great concern how deeply these thefts threaten this precious little islands tourism, which Bonaire DEPENDS on. I know a lot of extraordinary people on Bonaire who try with good heart and intense effort to solve this problem.
Neil's report about his experience in how it got handled by officials is in fact just a proof of how hopeless the situation is at the moment.
The police department knows their black sheeps, it is just a huge problem to find witnesses or evidence of their thefts.
I have nothing to add about AB Carrental, Neil is right in mentioning to read the small stuff written in a rental contract. I guess, they were not really concerned to act customer friendly or maybe they just lost their good manners.
But for every tourist I would like to clear up this $512 void they put on a credit card: They will not use it! It is used like a credit card statement! (actually so that they can see that you are able to pay the car rental afterwards)
About Tourist accommodations and burglaries, in this case SunRentals, I would like to add: This is the very first time, that I ever read that a rental property, rented out by SunRentals got robbed. I heard about robberies in the Resorts of Bonaire and I can assure you, they even have a lot of security guards! I got robbed twice in the house I rented, and I even had barriers in front of my windows! If they wanna get in, they find a way, it doesn't matter how much alarm you have or how many locks or barriers. Being a tourist on Bonaire once myself, I always rented over SunRentals and always had outstanding service from Josie and Muys and their assistants. For every tourist who wants to visit the island I would like to advise to use traveller cheques, most of the restaurants, dive shops accept them, just take with you, what you really need on your vacation and leave jewelleries and such at home. Bonaire, its inhabitants, the Board of Tourism, the PD is handling this problem as effective as possible, of course, much more has to be done, to secure safety again. Let's face it frankly: out of my own experience, I can say that I was furious about it and helpless and angry, but as much as these burglaries have caused me troubles, I have never stopped loving this wonderful island and its inhabitants.
silvie

Unfortunately this post has been talked to death, but I would like to add my 2 cents also being a victim of crime recently on Bonaire. I too rented with sunrentals and was burglarized. The theives went into rooms with children sleeping and my parents awake on the back porch. Neil, your experience was worse than mine but it has effected me as well. I have over 200 dives on Bonaire and I will go back but I am sad that I may not stay in a rental house. I think before anyone rents a house you should ask SunRentals to provide a standard of security measures.

This is quoted from Linda Richter after my post:
"You can get some security features that work when the house is occupied. The alarm I have chimes when a door is opened. So at night you would hear a chime if an outside door opens. You can also put similar gadgets on windows. A chime on the gate would be a nice option.

A panic button would be great if someone does break in while you are there that calls the security service for help and sounds an alarm.

Another simple thing is motion detector lights in the yard many of which can be set so cats and iguanas don't set them off. If someone is sneaking around the yard, you would notice the lights springing on.

Another set of simple things are pins for windows and sliders so they cannot be forced open or popped out. This may sound too easy but it saved our house from being broken into while we were home about 6 years ago.

Certainly, potential landlords should provide some sort of lockbox/safes for stashing passports, plane tickets, extra cash, and such."

See my account here: http://www.oldbonairetalk.com/newsgroup/messages/24/168148.html?1089586470

I have brought a group to Bonaire for the past several years and have seen things changing. We have experienced petty crime, but thank God our group has not had any major problems. In saying this though, I am really concerned about the changes I've seen in the past few years.
I have a group coming down in September. If it wasn't to late to cancel, I would seriously think about doing so.
The groups that I personally brought down, have added many tens of thousands of dollars of revenue to the local economy, and it's almost like the powers to be on the Island are totally ignoring what's going on, and don't seem to care.
We'll see how our upcoming trip goes, but unless I see some ray of hope for things getting better I will not be back, sad to say.

<deep>

If you're gonna go overboard, it's much more fun to do it from a dive boat...

"If you're gonna go overboard, it's much more fun to do it from a dive boat... "

Couldn't have said better myself Marc

Hey, where did my sigh go? Are sighs censored on this board?! <g>

I found it Marc, here it is <sigh> (and no, sighs are not currently monitored...LOL!)

(Message edited by cyndelee on August 5, 2004)

from September 23-24,1999

Lt. Governor Richard Hart explains the new
crime prevention efforts the police will be making to reduce the incidence of petty
theft at remote shore dive sites.

http://www.bonaireenews.com/19990930-Marketing.html


Does anyone remember the "new" efforts the police were to undertake waaaay back in 1999? Are they the same superior law-enforcement techniques used today?

Jason, believe me, this governor is not the same as the previous one.

Wow, I am staying at Crown Courts 44a in a couple of months. While I would not cancel my reservations based on this story, I am a bit worried and will be checking with SunRentals to see if the alarm has been installed. Luckily, one of my housemates is a martial arts expert. I just hope we could get our hands on these criminals - guarantee they wouldn't come back!

See now, i'm different from all of you: i am not a frequent traveller, and am looking for that first time golden experience with the least possible chance of failure. so, the terms "peace and quiet" mean exactly that. i have lived near detroit, lived in seaside ca when crime forced people to bar the windows, and have been burglarized in korea. i have done a lot of tough things in my life, and don't like to.
i made my reservations here with my wife for our 20th before i read this thread. i've just spent two hours catching up. j---s, f-----g, c----t. i've been there, done that. not on vacation. i hope the security guard at sorobon is on his toes, i do not like travelers cheques, and i guess i'm stuck with the $200 extra insurance. any other surprises?

Joe:

I aware of exactly three residential burglary type incidents being reported recently (i.e., last several months) that occurred while people were there. I believe all three occurred in stand alone villas (i.e., not in a resort per se).

As human beings, I think we all tend to emphasize whatever has changed recently (either bad or good). That is one reason why the perception of crime is often very different from reality. (An economist whose name I cannot recall at the moment has observed that things are rarely as bad -- or as good -- as we perceive them to be.)

This *is* a change in Bonaire and so seems especially jarring. It is also very frustrating to residents and tourists alike that the government has not, in the past, pursued the problem more aggressively (an understatement).

Those three incidents were very real and deeply affected those involved. IMHO, the government has an obligation (both to those it governs and to its guests) to do a much better job on the police front. I hope the current government does that (only time, and their actions, will tell).

Still, I would argue that by almost any measure Bonaire is safer than Belize, Mexico, Curacao, Guatemala, many medium size cities in the US, Jamaica, much of the UK, etc.

Will this be a "first time golden experience" for you? I both hope so and suspect that it will -- although I do not know what all of your expectations are. For example, if you are thinking about great shore diving or windsurfing you will not be disappointed. If you are expecting lush jungle vegetation covering steep mountains, well...

If you don't like TCs, why not just take and use an ATM card?

Dave

Joe, I'm with Dave, just don't take much cash and use the ATM's or credit cards. We took WAY too much cash and traveler's checks our first time to the island, and ended up using our American Express or MC for 99% of our purchases. The only time we used cash was for extra tipping or a couple of places that don't accept plastic. Take little cash, and if you need more, go to the ATM...oh, and leave the expensive toys at home (computers, stuff like that).

I hope your vacation is wonderful, and I'm sure it will be

Oh, and Dave is right about the non-lush terrain...desert and cactus...but it IS laid back and relaxing...no streetlights, just a few stop signs (all the traffic signs are in dutch, you may want to brush up...I once didn't "yield" when I should have and almost got hit!)

David, Cynde, thanks. i don't think i counted to ten after having read the two crime threads before writing the post. also, i live in the boondocks where there is no crime other than drinking; i know 'cause i'm in the court system business. this is no small part of why i am here. so, hearing the crime thread kinda put me off.

it also shattered the illusion a bit. i was hoping to become a regular like many of you, without looking elsewhere first...like the Grenadines(where is that atlas?)

now i know what i need to know thanks to the Board. thanks. i will take a couple of minimal precautions: stow the spare and valuables, use a safe at least at night, minimize cash, and inquire into safety and crime history at my resort. within 10 minutes of arrival i should have covered these issues and be completely relaxed and oblivious to the efforts of any criminals that may be around. hopefully this info will become easy second nature and will be buried in my subconscious.

we want to snorkel and dive and love all forms of terrain. we also want some sun. tough winter crappy summer here.

each time you folks have jotted a note, i have learned something pretty helpful and not overburdening. not too much, just enough to smooth out the trip a little. thanks a bunch.

Joe, glad you are a little more relaxed Keep ALL of your valuables in the safe at ALL times...i.e., passport, extra cash, wallet, jewelery (I usually leave that at home when I travel outside the country)...only have it with you if it is on your person...don't leave it in the car...in fact, don't leave ANYTHING you can't live without in the car...we take cheap flip flops, scrubby shorts, shirts, and sunglasses....leave the dive bag at the resort as well, just take what you are going in the water with.

Again, Sorobon is very very quiet and relaxing and I'm sure you will have a great time. You are on the other side of the island from Kralendik, where all of the other resorts, restaruants, and hustle and bustle