Bonaire is well-known for its friendly population, music, diving and windsurfing and its tranquil character. As one of the five island territories of the Netherlands Antilles, Bonaire belongs to the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The island’s economy is dominated by tourism and salt production.
Its southern part is almost completely reserved for the salt production business. Bonaire boasts one of the world’s finest underwater nature reservations, which is why the island has been voted the top diving destination in the world by Scuba Diving Magazine. Bonaire also has the reputation of being one of the best windsurf places worldwide.
| Capital | Kralendijk |
| Other towns | The only recognized towns on the island are Kralendijk and Rincon |
| Language(s) | Papiamento, Dutch and English are understood and spoken by most habitants |
| Population | Approximately 15,500 habitants |
| Political Status | Bonaire is preparing for a new constitutional status as a special municipality of the Netherlands |
| Area | 288 km² (111 sq. miles) |
| Currency | Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG) |
| Climate | Gentle sunny climate with a constant cool breeze and a yearly average temperature of 27.8°C (82°F) |
| Selected Main Attractions | The Nature Reservation Washington Slagbaai National Park, uninhabited Klein Bonaire (little Bonaire), Gotomeer (salt lake and breeding place of flamingos), former slave huts, Sorobon and Lac Bay beach |
| Shopping | Chiefly in the main shopping avenue Kaya Grandi (clothes, jewelry, souvenirs) and in the resorts |
| Electrical Current | 12-127V/50Hz |
Last Updated on Monday, 03 January 2011 20:00
