We're looking for a Caribbean destination for a 50th wedding anniversary celebration Thanksgiving week 2005. Two grandparents, three children and spouses, seven grandchildren (ages 6-16). Bonaire looks great because we have enthusiastic divers and snorkelers, but...do we run too big a risk of a rainy vacation? We've read about the heavy rain and flooding last November. Is that typical for Bonaire over Thanksgiving? Are there better islands in the Caribbean at that time, in your experience?

Dave,

Welcome to Bonairetalk! November is typically not like last November. Normally "rainy season" is from November until January. Bonaire is located right on the outside of the hurricane belt. We usually go to Bonaire in the fall, November and yes there have been a couple of rainy days here and there, but nothing like a tropical forest rain (with the exception last year). Bonaire is normally an arid deserty type terrain. A lot of people describe it similar to Arizona (I've never been so I cannot tell you if it really is or not...any one else?)
Regardless, I would definitely consider Bonaire in November, you will love it!

Liz

Dave,

We were on Bonaire for 2 weeks in late November, 2003. Yes, there was more rain than during our previous trips, which had been at other times of the year. However, it seemed that all of the rain was in the middle of the night, long after we had "packed it in." Daytime was just as wonderful as the other times of the year, and not once did we have to alter any plans or activities because of the weather. We wouldn't hesitate to go back in November.

Don