A group of three divers are headed to Bonaire in May. We are looking at Travellers Inn Bonaire, Happy Holiday Homes, and Bonaire Town Homes. I would like opinions on where you recommend we stay and why. They all have good prices, but I really know nothing about location or which offer the best lodging/amenities (including helpful staff).

Thanks!

Do keyword searches for the three places. There are plenty of comments in threads under the names. Do a search for 'budget' for other places. For recommendations, it would be helpful to know just what you are looking for besides price.

Welcome to BT. A word of advice in advance, there is no cure for PBD.

Cathy, Linnea's right about the key word search...and the PBD (Post Bonaire Depression). I have met Benny who owns Bonaire Townhomes a couple of times, and he is a real jem and sweetheart. I brought an ink cartridge down to him on one trip and as a thank you he brought me dutch chocolates (which my husband immediately devouered!) Last July he and Ellen (my underwater photography idol), stopped by for a visit where I was stying to say hi and catch up. He and his wife Ester make the stay there very comfortable and aim to please. Josie a board regular stays there every year for a couple of months and absolutely loves it. Maybe she will chime in. Have you been to the Bonaire Townhome website?

I also know that Happy Holiday Homes are owned by folks that live on the property as well. Good luck!

Cathy,
Just returned this week from our first Bonaire trip. We stayed at the Black Durgon Inn. It has a hot water shower, AC and cable TV. Free breakfast in morning. It is on the water with diving right off the dock (small wall, a popular site) Al the owner is helpful, but he won't fall all over you. Nothing fancy, but clean and on the water. The website is pretty representative. (see infobonaire.com)
Joe

Cathy, I agree with Joe above. The Black Durgon Inn is the absolute the best bet for your money and having a very good time. I have stayed there many times for a number of years and would not consider another place. It is small(10) rooms, very clean. The rooms 60' from the water and have tv, airco,and a really good free breakfast each morning. Most of the guests are repeat customers, comming back time after time. It is directly on top of the small wall and has a great pier streaching 25' out into the water. In fact when you look at the web cam north beach shot, you are looking at the spot where the black Durgon is located(only four doors north of Jake and Linda). Al, the owner is very knowledgable about the island and a scuba pro. The grounds are well kept with sand, shade, hammocks, horse shoes, table tennis and a great dive locker between the rooms and the sea. Best of all, there is a common large covered patio area with kitchen for guests. The patio extends right up to the waters edge. you can literally have morning coffee sitting under the canopy on the patio only 7' or so from the water. The view is really magnificent. Whether you are going for diving, snorkeling or just relaxing, I think you will have a good time at the Durgon and you will be blown away by the ocean view. Also,(as a side note) JAKE, if you are reading this, would you PLEASE giggle the north cam a few mm back to the right to once again take in a shot of the Black Durgon Inn Pier? I think it adds perspective to the shot, and, I miss seeing the pier. A portion of the pier was in the shot for years, and I would really appreciate seeing it again.Thanks. Lonnie

Just back from a trip to Cuba (wonderful) and had to put in my recommendation for Bonaire Town Homes. As Cynde said, I stay there each year (for five weeks this year) and LOVE it. I couldn't ask for more -- the place is lovely, has everything I need (including shaded hammocks for those lazy hours!), is very clean and tidy, and Benny and Ester have one goal --- to make their guests comfortable and happy.

If they have room (they just have a one-bedroom and a two-bedroom bungalow), I can't think of a better place.
Josie

For Mr. Maslowsky
Sorry for my english. I have readed your message about Black Durgon. I was in B.K. in 1996. I remember happily my holiday and the owner Mr. Al Catalfumo if I remember good his full name.
I would come back with my wife and my child soon in snorkeler paradise.
Now, how much cost a room at B.D.?
Thank
Roberto Mayerweg
Trieste Italy