Archive for the ‘Activities’ Category

Photo of the Day – Bonaire Bliss

July 6, 2018

Geological Wonders On Bonaire

My favorite hike on Bonaire is the Dos Pos hike near Washington Park. I take friends and tourists on this hike numerous times in the year. We always see pigs, donkeys, ferile cats and more. Contact me at ann@bonairecaribbean.com to learn more about this hike.

Autism Spectrum Vacations

April 17, 2018

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Vacations for Travelers on the Autism Spectrum

April 8, 2018

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Caribbean Wind & Sun Vacations http://www.bonairecaribbean.com/ is proud to reveal their new logo/branding for  Spectrum Adventure Vacations. Ann Phelan, owner will be providing trip planning for individuals on the spectrum to the island of Bonaire.  Ann has over 30 years experience in travel and tourism. Ann’s vision was to create individualized vacations on Bonaire, featuring Discover Diving with her partner, VIP Diving Along with Discover Diving, there will be snorkeling tours, windsurf lessons, mangrove kayaking, yoga, daily mindfulness meditation and therapeutic horseback riding. In conjunction with leisure travel, social communication and pragmatic support is available as well as family coaching, during stays on island.  These services are provided by an island -based speech and language professional. 

Each package will include family- friendly accommodations with pools and sea views. Additional features include airport meet and greet, vehicle rental, individualized itineraries and tours.  Free Concierge services include babysitting and childcare, dinner reservations and spa services. Specialized clinical support in areas of counseling, pragmatics and social communication, are also available. 

Email ann@bonairecaribbean.com for a complimentary trip consultation.

Ann L. Phelan MA CAGS

http://www.bonairecaribbean.com

http://www.bonairebliss.com

Instagram: bonairecaribbean

Twitter: Bonairebliss

Winter Respite in Bonaire

February 15, 2018

 

Klein BonaireAs the winter season continues, do you find yourself contemplating a Caribbean escape? Bonaire is one of the last unspoiled islands where guests can come decompress and escape from the cold.  Caribbean Wind & Sun Vacation specializes in small intimate properties that feature comfortable amenities, stunning views and superior management. Allow us to individualize your vacation planning staying in rustic seaside bungalows or luxury villas.   Welcome to Bonaire Bliss. Contact ann@bonairecaribbean.com today.

Foiling on Bonaire

January 6, 2018

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Photo by Kiyohisa Kuma Hosono – Kuma Movie

The windsurf world is abuzz about the new sport, foiling.  Short for hydrofoil, foiling is not really a fad but one of the biggest talked about news to hit the windsurf world. Some say it’s the biggest news in the sport.  Most sailors are trying the experience. Others are skeptical. What you need to know;

  • you can sail in light winds
  • many companies including Starboard have a line of boards for foiling
  • the rush sailing above water has been described as “wild”, “exhilarating” and “super fun” but the locals on Bonaire

Windsurf pro, Antoine Albeau races with a foil board. Pro sailor and windsurf guru, Robby Nash has developed a line as well.  An explosion in gear choices and pros and amateurs who foil will be witnessed soon. This is the biggest news in what could be a windsurf revolution.

Foiling is not only in windsurfing. Kitesurfing has foiling.  A  Bonaire local, Peter Zweers has been kite foiling for a few years now. Internationally, America’s Cup has foil boats. It’s the sport to watch emerge in many disciplines.

Here on Bonaire, Pro windsurfer Taty Frans is offering foil rentals. He charges 90.00 for two hour rentals. Lessons can be offered as well.  To book your rental contact Ann Phelan, island expert on windsurfing vacations. Email ann@bonairecaribbean.com today.

 

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Photo by Kiyohisa Kuma Hosono- Kuma Movie

 

 

Bonaire Wellness

September 30, 2017

Kralendijk – Recharge and reset on the island of Bonaire. Bonaire Wellness is a web directory of wellness practitioners on the Dutch Caribbean island of Bonaire. The directory allows visitors to locate and book wellness activities to compliment their vacation. Heal your mind and body choosing from  a myriad of restorative services. For those seeking an active wellness vacation, participate in a seaside Tai Chi class or sunset yoga. For those desiring a full immersion, plan a week-long wellness vacation complete with an individualized program.  Bonaire is provides an unhurried and unspoiled destination.  Come find your center. Bon Bini, welcome to Bonaire. 

Visit Bonaire Wellness at http:www.bonairewellness.com

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Bonaire Loves Kids

September 20, 2017

Kids love Bonaire and Bonaire loves kids. Families flock to the Dutch Caribbean island for good reason. Best known as Diver’s Paradise, there are so many other amazing diversions, perfect for families.  With easy air access from the US, Canada and Amsterdam and a plethora of family friendly hotels and condos, Bonaire is the spot to plan a winter family vacation.

Take your pick as to one of the many kid- oriented activities. Every family must visit the Donkey Sanctuary.  Rent a pick up truck, most everyone does on Bonaire, and pack up the kids. Make a pit stop at the bakery or grocery and pick up a bag of day old bread and carrots. The Donkey Sanctuary is located on the Sorobon Road.  Open 10-5 daily, there is a visitors zoo and a self-guided driving tour. The Sanctuary is home to orphaned and injured donkeys as well as a safe haven for others. Donkeys have been a part of Bonaire’s landscape since the 17th Century when Spaniards brought them to the island. Now, it is common to see them on the sides of the street in the countryside, “Kunuku”. Unfortunately, traffic hazards, illness and lack of water and food have compromised the lives of Bonaire’s donkey population. The Sanctuary seeks to provide a home for many of these lovely creatures. Kids can feed the babies or sit in the truck and drive through the car paths. It’s fun for all.

 

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Donkey Sanctuary Photo by Mike Burns

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Windsurfing is big on the island. Some of the world’s top freestyle windsurfers hail from Bonaire. There is a professional team  that has received fame and notoriety around the globe. The windsurf scene is found at windy Lac Bay. Young and old take to the water to sail across the tropical blue. Shallow depths and gin clear water make it perfect. Kids start young on Bonaire, some, right out of diapers. The small kids rigs and expert instruction make Lac Bay, kids paradise.  Parents can take to the water while their kids attend on of the yearly kids camps.  There are two professional shops on the bay and three restaurants. In between sailing, kids love to play in the shallows, searching for sea creatures. It’s a kid’s playground on one of the island’s most picturesque settings.

 

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Under the sea, Bonaire is blessed with healthy coral reefs and diverse sea life.  With two kid oriented dive programs, kids can experience diver’s bliss. The Junior Open Water Diving and Supplied Air Snorkeling for Youth program (SASY),  allow kids as young as 5 to take to the water and experience diving. There are several dive shops on island that specialize kids diving programs. For those that prefer snorkeling, Bonaire has over 50 shores sites that the family can stop and enjoy.

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Photo by Casper Douma

Other activities suited for children include mangrove kayaking, Kitesurfing, beach combing, caving, hiking and stargazing. Along with activities, Bonaire has many family friendly restaurants featuring pizza and burgers as well as pasta and sushi for the more adventurous eater.

With easy air access, family-friendly accommodations and an array of fun filled activities, Bonaire is a top choice for families in the know. For more information or to plan your family vacation, contact Ann Phelan at ann@bonairecaribbean.com today.

Bonaire Travel Tips

August 21, 2017

Welcome soon to Bonaire.  Bonaire is unspoiled with pristine waters, protected by STINAPA as a Marine Park. The island is protected to preserve the beauty and nature that tourists and locals have come to love.  A few mentions to support your visit.

  • Do drink the water. The island de-salination plant provides delicious water throughout.
  • Purchase a Marine Park Tag to access the waterways of Bonaire. 25.00 for divers and 10.00 for others (snorkeler, windsurfers, kites surfers). Available at all sport shops.
  • Drones are prohibited in Bonaire air space.
  • ATMs are located throughout the island. USD is the official currency.
  • Wear sunscreen – we are close to the equator and the sun is very strong.
  • Look but do not touch – it is prohibited to remove shells, coral, sand and sea life from Bonaire.

Sources

http://www.bonaireinternationalairport.com/2017/02/think-twice-before-packing-your-drone-for-bonaire/

http://stinapabonaire.org/bonaire-national/

 

 

 

Bonaire From the Sea – Diving Bliss

July 5, 2017

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Photo Courtesy of Amoray

Bonaire dive enthusiasts have another reason to return to Bonaire. I’ve just discovered Amoray, a splendid 44- foot Beneteau owned and chartered by Richard and Sue Willis. Amoray is equipped for comfort and pleasure for her discerning dive or snorkel guests.  The skies the limit in choosing where to dive. Bonaire offer’s over 100 dive sites almost all accessible from Amoray.   Captain Richard Willis, a Bonaire resident is an elite dive instructor, nature guide and specialist sea turtle conservationist. His wife, Sue works for Sea Turtle Conservation Bonaire and is an excellent first mate. She is also a culinary genius as I learned recently.  Captain Richard and Sue hosted me for a lovely happy hour aboard. What a delightful experience where I learned more about this new dive offering on Bonaire.

 

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Sure, you can certainly stay at a hotel or villa but imagine having your own three berth yacht, nestled in one of the Caribbean’s quietest and cleanest marina?  Whether you are a honeymoon couple or three couples, Amoray is built for comfort.

Pricing

Your Sailboat for the Day (8:00 to 17:00)

1 to 2 people $650 includes sailing, diving and snorkelling with an experienced guide, lunch and drinks.
3 to 4 people $700 includes sailing, diving and snorkelling with an experienced guide, lunch and drinks.
5 to 6 people $750 includes sailing, diving and snorkelling with an experienced guide, lunch and drinks*

*Maximum 4 scuba divers, 2 dives per trip, equipment hire and air packages at additional cost. Number of dives possible depends on the chosen sites, weather etc!

Exclusive part day sailing and snorkelling packages are also available (subject to availability) from 08:00 to 12:00 or 13:00 to 17:00.
1 to 2 people $350, 3 to 4 people $400 and 5 to 6 people $450, includes gourmet snacks, hot and cold drinks, towels and the use of a private cabin with en-suite facilities.
Contact us if you have other specific requirements or timings and we will do our best to meet your needs.

Your Sailboat for the Week- Live Aboard

1 to 2 people $3750
3 to 4 people $4000
5 to 6 people $4500*

*Maximum 4 scuba divers, 2 tanks per person per trip, extra equipment hire and air packages at additional cost. Number of dives possible depends on the chosen sites, weather etc.

Price includes:

* 7 nights accommodation onboard “Your Sailboat” AMORAY which has a well-equipped kitchen, comfortable seating above and below deck, three double cabins, all with en-suite facilities
* Daily sailing, diving and snorkeling with an experienced and qualified guide
* Overnight mooring in the secure, intimate Harbour Village Marina
* PADI dive training and specialties up to and including rescue diver are available at special rates. Contact us for a full list of available courses and for further details
* Air/Nitrox for 2 dives per person per day, maximum 4 scuba divers
* Welcome essentials grocery pack
* Captain’s Cocktail of the Day
* One sunset sail
* Taxi service to supermarket to provision the boat

**** For a party of 6 that’s only $750 per person for the week!!! ****

 

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Captain Richard and Sue

When booking Amoray with Caribbean Wind & Sun Vacation you will have free Concierge Services as well. Email ann@bonairecaribbean.com today.

 

 

Bonaire Wellness Retreats

July 5, 2017

Discover a NEW YOGA RETREAT & Wellness Destination on Bonaire

*** Surrounded by Natural Elements, Sorobon Beach & Wellness Resort,

is the Ultimate Eco Wellness Destination ***  Teaming up with Wellness expert, Ann Phelan of Caribbean Wind & Sun Vacations, they are offering special wellness packages to Bonaire, this fall, 2017.DSC_0660

Photo Credit Marc van Swoll 

Welcome to Sorobon Beach & Wellness Resort, a laid back,  ocean front property situated on pristine Lac Bai. The bay is famous as it’s a Mecca for windsurfing. Outside the reef, find the Blue Lagoon which is inhabited by more than 1500 turtles, rays, lobsters, tarpons and other spectacular marine life. The property features rustic bungalows complete with wooden decks and hammocks. Get back to nature. There are no TV or phones but there is WIFI if you need to stay connected to the world.  

This serene spot is perfect for healing. There is full array of restorative services to heal your mind and body. Experience a healing massage or salt scrub. Take a yoga class as the sunsets. Enjoy a rigorous TRX workout. Savor a healthy smoothie after your spa treatment. Dine on vegan or vegetarian cuisines. The options are endless.

Why choose Bonaire? Bonaire continues to be recognized as one of the top destinations worldwide for its pristine marine park. Bonaire has a long history of nature preservation, and always seeks to find the delicate balance between environmental protection and growth, while maintaining nature and culture. Bonaire was one of the first Caribbean islands to collaborate with the Coral Restoration Foundation (CRF) to conserve our reefs. By launching a program to cultivate new corals, specifically the Staghorn and Elkhorn corals, Bonaire will be able to preserve the reef’s genetic diversity.

 

Contact ann@bonairecaribbean.com today. There are special packages for September – Dec. 1, 2017. This is the perfect girls retreat, honeymoon getaway, corporate meeting setting or a mature woman’s “transitional” celebration.  Find your center and find your solace on the island of Bonaire.