Archive for the ‘Diving and Snorkeling’ Category
Autism Spectrum Vacations
April 17, 2018Vacations for Travelers on the Autism Spectrum
April 8, 2018
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
Instagram: bonairecaribbean
Twitter: Bonairebliss
Romantic Bonaire
March 3, 2018
Besides the sunshine and warm temps, inspired travelers seek romance when venturing south, to warmer climates. Visions of slushy tropical drinks with toes in the sand beckons those who seek to get away. Magical sunsets, swaying palm trees and island music entice travelers. Bonaire is arguably one of the Caribbean’s unspoiled island. Those in the know head to the island for the slow pace. Others seeking a romantic island getaway are treated with lovely tropical vistas, romantic dining spots and a plethora of exotic villas for the perfect escape. Here are my top picks for absolute romance.
Hotel
Delfins Beach Resort – new to the Bonaire scene, this low key low rise beachfront property features stunning European inspired suites with comfortable bedding, sea views and high end amenities. The pool is Bonaire’s largest with romantic sunning beds in the middle of the pool. On the beach, loungers are scattered around the mature palm trees, shaded with massive umbrellas. Bar staff discreetly serve chilled glasses of Savignon Blanc from their impressive wine collection. Wade into the sea, hold hands with your loved one and snorkel the tropical garden, teeming with sea life. Delfins exemplifies pure romance.
Photo Courtesy of Delfins Beach Resort
Dining
Brass Boer – Located at Delfins Beach Resort, is one of the island’s hottest spots on the dining scene. Not only is the menu expansive and the food sublime, the setting inspires romance. Tables are set discreetly apart, allowing for a private dining experience. All face the sea with stunning views and gentle trade winds. Service is slow paced to allow the diners time to savor their cuisine. For those seeking something more private, head into the indoor dining area which features alluring lighting and furnishings reminiscent of a Middle Eastern Tent gone modern. Reservations are a must in this new hot spot
Beach
Wayaka II is my pick for one of Bonaire’s most romantic beach. This pretty secluded cove is located in Washington Park. Plan a day, packing a cooler with food and drink and your snorkel gear. Head into the park taking the short route and meander along the rough terrain, enjoying views of massive cactus and interesting rock formations. Wind along to Wayaka II (not to be mistaken for Wayaka I) and park your vehicle and head down to the cove. There is a sheltered area to leave your belongings while you snorkel amongst the amazing reef. A house Angel Fish will greet you as you wade out. Massive Parrotfish nibble at the reef, providing lively entertainment. The romance is the amazing views, the fantastic unspoiled snorkel experience and the solitude. Tip: arrive early to have the place to yourself. After, head over to Slaagbai to jump off the cliff, pure adrenaline and pure fun. There is a fee to enter the park. Enjoy the amazing museum and take time to chat with the park rangers.
Photos Courtesy of Jeanine Clark Bremmer
If you are seeking a romantic getaway, contact Ann at ann@bonairecaribbean.com today for your custom designed Bonaire vacation. Ann has a collection of lovely villas and bungalows offering a romantic escape. Concierge services include relaxing massage, Bonaire Salt Scrubs, private yoga classes and sunset cruises. You deserve to be pampered and to experience an escape that soothes the soul and inspires passion. Bon Bini, welcome soon, to Bonaire,
Winter Respite in Bonaire
February 15, 2018
As 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.
Diving Bliss
December 9, 2017Bonaire is best known as one of the Caribbean’s best shore diving destinations. Yellow rocks with creative names such as Angel City and Hilma Hooker, dot the landscape along the shore line. They are markers for the over 80 shore dive sites on Bonaire. Divers have been coming to the island for over 30 years to experience some of the Caribbean’s best diving. Scuba Diving Magazine recently released their People’s Choice Awards. Bonaire came in first for Healthy Marine Environment, Macro Diving, Shore Diving and Free Diving. Thanks to a protected Marine Park, managed by STINAPA, Bonaire’s pristine reefs can be enjoyed by the discerning diver.
Repeat clients, Cheryl and Airey Baringer love Bonaire. They have been my clients since 2003. Their mission, to dive as much as they can and to snap amazing photos. Here is my favorite, captured by Cheryl last month.
To book your dive vacation, contact ann@bonairecaribbean.com today. Mention Dive Bliss and earn 5-10% discounts on select dive properties for new bookings in 2018. Bon Bini to Bonaire Bliss. And to read about the awards, click on Scuba Dive Magazine
Lionfish
October 12, 2017
Timmy Lienhardt Photography
In the world of Caribbean diving the word Lionfish sends shivers down the spine of any eco minded dive enthusiast. This venomous creature has no natural predators in the Caribbean and can wreck havoc on the sea life in days. Native to Asia it is thought aquarium owners dumped some Lionfish into the warm Atlantic introducing this villain into the eco system. The Lionfish is a voracious predators feeding on many varieties of fish. The Bonaire Marine Park has a great link to read more. In the meantime enjoy Timmy Lienhardt’s photos of the lionfish he observed (and caught) in Bonaire.
Photo Courtesy of Timmy Lienhardt
Bonaire Loves Kids
September 20, 2017Kids 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.
Donkey Sanctuary Photo by Mike Burns
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.
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.
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, 2017Welcome 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://stinapabonaire.org/bonaire-national/
Bonaire From the Sea – Diving Bliss
July 5, 2017
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.
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!!! ****
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.
Spectrum Adventure Vacations – New Launch
June 28, 2017Caribbean Wind & Sun Vacations is proud to launch, Spectrum Adventure Vacations, trip planning for individuals on the Autism Spectrum to the island of Bonaire. Ann Phelan, owner and tour operator is professionally a counselor. Her specialty is working with young and older adults on the Autism Spectrum. She understands the social and emotional needs of the individual on the spectrum. 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 and horseback riding.
Photo by Casper Douma/ http://www.nature2experience.com
The vacations are organized and individualized to create a stress -free and memorable experience. Each package will include family- friendly accommodations with pools and views. Additional features include airport meet and greet, vehicle rental, individualized itineraries and tours. Free Concierge services are included to include babysitting and childcare, dinner reservations and spa services.
For more information email ann@bonairecaribbean.com for a trip consultation.
Travel Bliss 