My boyfriend and I will be making our first trip to Bonaire in just 4 short weeks. We've booked a villa at the Plaza Resort, and we plan to cook some of our own meals instead of going out in order to save money. We'd appreciate advice about the food markets in Bonaire,,,i.e. location of the best markets, quality of food and best prices. Also, has anyone had trouble with bringing non-perishable food items into Bonaire from the United States? Please advise.

There are at least 6 good markets on Bonaire and it really is not necessary to bring food and at times it is even cheaper here for some items not to mention the pain of having to carry it. The only thing we encourage you to bring are fresh bagels and Krispy Kremes, eh Jake?

Robin,

Michael is correct. Do not bother packing in foodstuffs. I did the first year I went to Bonaire - what a pain. The only thing I take now is Gorp and hard candy for between dives.

I now use my second piece of luggage for transporting goodies to island friends and bringing gifts home to friends and family.

Enjoy!!

I brought down coffee (I am very particular about my coffee) and breakfast cereal (without the box, just in the bag. Milk was pretty expensive on Bonaire, but everything else seemed to be very reasonably priced.

OOOOOPPPPS, Sorry Robyn!

Johns post reminded me of the other thing I take EVERYWHERE - my own blend, 3/4 French Roast 1/4 Columbian Supremo.

Have to admit though, the morning lady at Bongo's makes a decent cup of coffee.

Tom,
I did have some excellent coffee while in Bonaire, but since I am a raging caffiene addict, I can never be too sure. Better to have my own stash with me.

I am right there with you John. About 8 years ago I ran out of my stash while on Bonaire. I went to Cultimara and bought a bag not realizing it was not ground (did not have my grinder with me).

Two of my traveling companions were awaken at 5 a.m. by my trying to smash beans with the butt end of my old dive knife. They informed me I might have a "Problem", those guys still pick on me about that.

Michael ... no KK in our town (or state!)but I can certainly pick up some bagels to bring next week. I can get them fresh on Friday but they then need to travel to the airport Friday night, leave very early Sat, spend the day in San Juan and arrive in Bonaire Sat evening. I can get them to you on Sunday morning -- is that still fresh?? Favorites? Personally I do not like any of the ones with fruit!!

Tom ... my coffee also is about the only food that travels with me! Along with lemon drops for between dives!

Robyn ... I would echo all above about food. You might want to bring a fabric shopping bag or backpack as in the past there has been a charge for plastic grocery bags.

I agree...no fruity bagels! Ugh! Please, do bring me what every you like..I seems our taste runs in the same direction. I can be found every day from 9am until 6 pm at Chat N' Browse, the islands only barefoot internet service (shameless plug) at the Sand Dollar Shopping Plaza!

Michael,
9:00-6:00 EVERY DAY!
WOW!
Now for the question: Can we use your place, Chat N' Browse, to post updates to any planned Feb/Mar BT'er events? If so, I could give you another "shameless plug" by adding a note to my next 'list' update to stop in at Chat N' Browse and check for any new or changed activities.

Michael, It will be a pleasure to bring you bagels and to see your new place. We will also bring you our Sat am copy of the New York Times -- hope you won't mind a copy that has been read on the plane. Looking forward to meeting you. Susan

Michael, you will become an Island legend/icon again now that everyone will know where to come visit with you! Since you moved to your new place last year, I'll bet some folks were unable to locate you again. This is nice...now everyone can go see you and deliver the goodies and also utilize your facilities and pick up some great artwork....and also some great ice cream all in one swoop! We wish you the best of luck on your new venture. Can't wait to see it and patronize the new place. Oh boy...bagels, Folgers and NY Times...here they come!! Carole