I am trying to plan a trip for my friends and I. We are looking to travel to Bonaire for spring break in march of 2001. As none of us are divers, we are looking for some place that offers quick access to the beaches, downtown and dining areas. We should be able to rent scooters, so distance is not a great problem. Where would everyone recommend staying at a reasonable price??? Thanks so much!

Not to send anyone away from Bonaire but, I'd be curious about how you and your friends settled on Bonaire for Spring Break? There is not much to do on the island if you don't dive. Pretty much the entire tourism industry is geared towards divers. There is not much night life, only one disco and not many beaches. The most beautiful beach is by far Sorobon. It is a private naturist (nudist) beach of the north side of the island, most resorts are south side, I think it costs around $20 a day to go if they let you in. They are very selective. The only two other beaches I know of are Bachalors and Pink Beach. While both are beautiful they are very small strips of sand. You will not find any sort of "boardwalk" on Bonaire. That being said, Bonaire Carribean Club has by far the cheapest deals but is way out of the way. Buddy Dive and Sand Dollar are more luxurious and closer to town.

Not to diasagree with tom, but less than 45% of our visitors are divers. If you want to know what the other 55% do, e mail me and I will send you list of over 50 activities. There are more than two beaches as well and there are also lots more places to stay in the "economy range" They can be found on this web site as well. There is pleenty to do and see. Bonaire is not an island for people who want discoes, casinios and non stop nitht life. Yes, you will find hot spots, but most folks are too tired to stay up much past midnight!

It really depends what is your idea of holidays. If you want luxury hotels, shaded beaches with drink service, crowds of beautiful topless starlets, exclusive shopping, refined gambling - then Bonaire is not for you.
If your idea of holidays is beauty, and rest (without isolation), a great diversity of natural life, comfortable settings, a very friendly atmosphere, and an overwelmingly beautiful sea - why not try Bonaire?
Bonaire has a lot of good things from different worlds. It gives us most of the modern comfort we grew used to - but then it gives us contact with an exotic and bewildering Nature. I think Bonaire is for Nature lovers, and at that, it is difficult to find a better place!
My wife and I are not divers (we are dedicated snorkelers) and ever since coming the first time to Bonaire, a sizeable part of our time is spent planning our next trip there!
(By the way, it less then two months away, now!)

well said!

I agree with Tom, If you're not diving or have a specific "adventure" in mind, kayaking, windsurfing, biking, birdwatching or of course Diving, then I don't believe Bonaire is the place for you!

It may be true that only 45% of the visitors are divers (though it seems impossible to me), but I think you'd be much happier in Aruba.

As for perspective, I've been to Bonare at least 20 times, Aruba 10 times and Curacao 3 times.

I know it is hard to believe that figure, but it takes into account our European visitors. While 70% of our American arrivals dive, the figure is less than half of that for Europe. Considering that our arrivals are about 45% from each area, the numbers make sense. Of course, many do become certified while here...

for diver or non-divers alike, Lighthouse Beach resort is a great and inexpensive place to stay. Contact me anytime ibs@bonairelive.com

OK, Glynn, we get the picture! Thanks for your input, but I think one single posting in the appropriate category would have sufficed in this instance.

It's not that we don't appreciate your assistance, because we do, but please limit it to one single posting, if you can. Thanks!