Does anyone have specific comments on Diverīs Paradise? They offer very reasonable packages and what I gather from some posts on this forum the diving operation is good as well.

Another thing - is it common practise that you have to pay the entire amount for your stay FOUR WEEKS in advance (by credit card) - long before youīve even seen the place?

in a word, DONT...I think paying that much in advance is outrageous and would sound a few bells in my head. Fity percent of one week deposit in advance and the rest of the week before your arrival sounds reasonable. If you do pay by credit card, you can always refuse the payment if you are disatisfied with the accomodation, however. Diver's Paradise is a nice property and you are not in danger of being surprised so on that score you are safe but to make a month committmen before you have seen the place is a bit unfair to you...

Michael and Irmagard bring up a good point. The answer in the travel biz depends on the property.

In hotels and place with many rooms there usually is no need typically to pre pay outside of a few weeks. With villas and houses most guests pre pay anything within 45 days prior.

The main reason is if someone cancels close to arrival there is little chance a homeowner or small property manager can re book the room ($ air ect..).

Renting sight unseen is so hard but thankfully you will learn much here. Also more reason to book with a travel agent that specializes in the area of travel. They know what they sell first hand or should.

I have been a guest at DP and really enjoyed my stay. It is in a lovely location convenient to al and the managers are very attentive and cleaning staff most accommodating.

Irmgard,

Divers Paradise Apartments is right across the street from our house here on Bonaire, and my wife has her private art studio in one of the apartments (which makes us tenants there too, incidentally). When we have guests visit us (my father arrives tomorrow), we put them up at Divers Paradise with no qualms or concerns - nice one-bedroom units, well equipped. The only thing is that you definitely need a rental car to get around, as the apartments are not within easy walking distance of downtown or any publicly accessible shore diving sites.

Jake