Hi-

My wife and I are planning our first trip to Bonaire, probably in November. My wife does not dive and isn't likely to start, though she does love snorkeling. I'm a new diver, just got my Open Water cert this summer. All of my dives have been in the Caribbean, with the exception of a pair of muck dives in a lake here in Colorado. We'll probably stay at the Bellafonte based on great reviews we've read and the fact that it doesn't cater solely to divers, which is a plus for my wife. So I'm looking for advice on a few things:

- What's a good dive shop to go with, given that the Bellafonte itself isn't directly affiliated with any one shop (as far as I can tell)? I've read good things about Dive Friends/Yellow Submarine.
- How easy is it to find a buddy to dive with, especially with me being a newbie? I'm not opposed to paying for a guide, but not sure how common that is or how pricey it would get for a week. I figure shore diving will keep me plenty busy most of the trip, but I'd be open to a few boat dives too if the opportunity arises.
- Any good deals on a rental car/truck?
- Anything else you think might be useful in my situation?

Thanks,
Sean

Welcome to Bonaire Talk Sean

Contact Ann at www.bonairecaribbean.com

She got me a great deal on truck rental, unlimited air package with Dive friends and she can help you with a great place to stay.

It's easy to find a dive buddy's because the are so many divers here.

Sean,
For the best time get a guide. Contact Bas Tol on this site at looneybin. I spent a week with my daughters and he showed us the sites under water and on land...can't wait to get back and get "Bassed around the east" again

I would suggest you find an operation with a "house reef" like Carib Inn Captain Don's Buddy Dive and there are more. (go on line and google diving in Bonaire) The reason is that most have marker ropes in front of the property and for a new diver this is very important. It takes the worry out of finding your exit point. Also, most have boards that you can solicit another lone diver for a buddy. Most have unlimited shore dive packages combined with boat dives. Captain Don's has a restaurant (Rum Runners) and they have a nice breakfast buffet. Anyone at the breakfast tables will gladly give you and your wife advice. E mail me and I will do what I can to steer you in the right direction.