Bonaire
News, entertainment, anthem and a short visitor guide.
Local language: Papiamentu
Anthem
No cleared recording is available yet, so there is no Listen button for this song.
Recording: United States Navy Band · Public domain (U.S. government work) · Source: Wikimedia Commons
Visitor guide
History
Bonaire was settled by the Caquetío, then ruled by Spain and the Netherlands. Since 2010 it has been a special municipality of the Netherlands.
Culture
Simadan, the harvest festival, and a relaxed island pace define local culture. Bonaire is famous for protecting its environment.
Languages & Creoles
Papiamentu and Dutch are official, and Papiamentu is the everyday language. English and Spanish are widely spoken.
Currency
The US dollar (USD).
Popular Attractions
Bonaire National Marine Park makes the island one of the world's best shore-diving destinations. Flamingos, salt flats, Washington Slagbaai National Park and Lac Bay windsurfing are highlights.
Food
Goat stew (kabritu stobá), fresh fish and pastechi are local favourites. Cactus soup (kadushi) is a traditional dish.
Places to Visit
Kralendijk, Klein Bonaire, Lac Bay, Washington Slagbaai National Park and the salt pans.
More of the Caribbean
English-speaking Caribbean
Spanish-speaking Caribbean
French-speaking Caribbean
Dutch-speaking Caribbean
Additional Caribbean Coastal Areas
Colombia—Caribbean coast; San Andrés and Providencia
Venezuela—Caribbean coast and islands
Panama—Caribbean coast; Bocas del Toro
Costa Rica—Caribbean coast; Limón
Nicaragua—Caribbean coast; Corn Islands
Honduras—Caribbean coast; Bay Islands
Guatemala—Caribbean coast; Livingston
Mexico—Caribbean coast; Cozumel and Isla Mujeres