Archive for October, 2012

Kontiki – Windsurf Heaven

October 31, 2012

Lunch at Kontiki

In 2001 I forged a partnership with Kontiki Resort. After a site inspection and short stay, I knew it was the ideal spot for discerning windsurf clientel. The rustic property is nestled in the Bonaire Kukuku with sweeping views of the vast mangroves. In the distance the windsurf highway can be seen with sailors blasting on the blue sea. The steady trades onshore provide a cooling experience. Since 2001 I have had the privilege of sending hundreds of windsurfers to Kontiki. Managers, Martin and Miriam are ably assisted by Carla to care for my clients needs.

On site is a lovely al fresco restaurant featuring sumptuous local and regional cuisine with some Dutch influences. This is my favorite lunch spot in between sailing sessions. The Dutch Kibbling (fish and chips) and fish soup are my favorites.

Some of Kontiki’s rooms were recently refurbished including Lac Bay Villa, the properties 4 bedroom oceanview escape. Lac Bay Villa is a client favorite featuring a gourmet kitchen and roof top deck for star gazing. I have enjoyed many social visits at this villa including several Stand Up Paddle sessions from the beach (SUP).

I have steep discounts for off season dates and repeater incentives. Room choices are selected based on client’s preferences. Please contact me today to discuss this amazing property. When booking Kontiki, I can arrange windsurf gear and clinics to compliment their stay. Contact ann@bonairecaribbean.com today and mention this blog post for free Concierge and bar credits at Kontiki.

Lac Bay Villa

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Posted in Where to Stay, Windsurfing | 3 Comments »

Raining Cats and Dogs in Bonaire

October 21, 2012

October through March is our rainy season. Compared to islands on the Eastern Caribbean chain, our rainfall is paltry, about 16 inches a year. Still, when it rains, I get quite excited. I am a New Englander so am accustomed to weather change. We need the rain for our parched landscape, for the feral animals and wild donkey population and our gardens. Soon, the trades return and the rains dissipate making perfect windsurf weather.

I am entering my 26th season booking trips to the Caribbean. I wish I kept track of the numbers of amazing clients I sent to paradise. So many stand out for various reasons. My honeymoons are favorites. As a windsurfer, I enjoy when lovers of the sport go to Bonaire for the first time and come back ready to book for the following year. The 20+ years of booking Antigua were some of my best years in the industry. I also have bittersweet memories of the 5 years I booked villas in Montserrat. That business came to a screeching halt in 1995 when Soufriere woke from a 400 year sleep.

I love the Caribbean and love the weather. A few of my favorite weather sites include http://www.stormcarib.com and as well as local weather site http://www.meteo.an/index.asp and WindFinder http://www.windfinder.com/forecast/bonaire_atlantis&wf_cmp=7

Some folks ask will it rain every day in Bonaire. It’s very rare but October tends to be the wettest month in my recollection. Soon, end of November the Christmas trades start to build and by mid Dec. we are back to the lovely winds Bonaire is best known for.

To book your windsurf vacation or talk weather, email me at ann@bonairewindsurfing.com

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Den Leman DEMA Group Special

October 12, 2012

Photo Courtesy of Freddie Bonaire


Den Leman is a favorite getaway for my dive clients. The property is on Bari Reef, one of Bonaire’s most diverse underwater dive sites. I am pleased to offer book 7 divers, the 8th stays and dives for free. The rate can be divided between 8 for a super discount OR the group leader can stay/dive free. Rates start at 691.00 per diver based on a quad. This includes truck, 6 days unlimited air and free Nitrox. For more details email ann@bonairecaribbean.com

Photo Courtesy of Tribs

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Bonaire Singles Windsurf Week March 9-16 2012

October 12, 2012

Each year I organize Singles Weeks for solo travelers who love to windsurf but don’t love traveling alone. The group meets for dinners at night and participate in Andy Brand’ts ABK Windsurf Camp by day. It’s a great opportunity to learn to sail, hone your skills or take it to the next level. Join me at the beach for the clinic. Wednesday afternoon is free day where we go snorkeling or hiking. There are 3 organized dinners including the group BBQ Thursday evening at Jibe City. Traveling alone is fun the ABK- Caribbean Wind & Sun way!

Email ann@bonairewindsurfing.com today!

http://www.bonairecaribbean.com/windsurfing.html

Ask me how! Prices start at 1500.00 pp for a single studio with kitchen, 6 days gear at Jibe City, 5 day ABK camp, and a vehicle rental.

The ABK Crew and Moi

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Airline Alert- Insel Airlines

October 12, 2012

TCB Inc. has advised me that Insel Airline’s non stop from Bonaire to Miami has been discontinued. There is now a layover in Curacao and then a non stop flight onwards to Miami. For details please contact Insel direct at 1-800 386-4800.

Safe Travels

Departure on Saturday Insel 907 at 7 am Bonaire – Curacao – Miami

Arrival on Saturday Insel 908 at 6 pm Miami – Bonaire.

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