Bonaire tourism month: celebrating a thriving industry and island spirit
Bonaire Tourism Month celebrates the island’s rich culture, adventure, and hospitality throughout September. With exciting events like scavenger hunts, and the Taste of Bonaire, visitors can enjoy unforgettable experiences.
Earlier this year, in April, Bonaire’s tourism industry shared exciting developments during the tourism update 2024. This event revealed promising trends for the island’s growing tourism scene.
BONHATA reported that Q1 2024 maintained a 74% occupancy rate, matching last year’s performance. While there was a slight drop in the average daily rate due to more available rooms, Q2 is projected to see an 11% increase in occupancy. Bonaire International Airport (BIA) also noted a significant jump in flights from North America, contributing to a 7.8% rise in international visitors.
In March 2024, Bonaire welcomed 18,169 stayover visitors, with more flights and inter-island carriers expanding services. To capitalize on this growth, the Tourism Corporation Bonaire (TCB) has organized a series of events in September to celebrate Bonaire tourism month.
Bonaire tourism month kicks off
To mark the success of these numbers, TCB has been hosting Bonaire tourism month, a month-long celebration throughout September. Though we’re now past September 11th, there are still plenty of exciting activities on the calendar.
The festivities began with Bonaire by night on September 5th, where Kralendijk came alive with island rhythms and a vibrant atmosphere. On September 6th, Bonaire Day brought the community together to celebrate the island’s rich culture with traditional events.
Additionally, every Saturday in September, starting on the 7th, arriving visitors at Flamingo International Airport have been greeted by Bonaire ambassadors dressed in folkloric outfits. This warm, immersive welcome is a wonderful introduction to the island’s spirit, offering tourists an immediate taste of Bonaire’s vibrant culture.
Source: Tourism Corporation Bonaire
Family fun and interactive events
Coming up on September 21st, Bonaire tourism month will feature a tourism scavenger hunt in downtown Kralendijk. Aimed at kids aged 9 to 12, this event combines fun and learning as participants navigate challenges and earn points to win prizes. It’s a family-friendly way to explore the island and bond with other visitors.
If you’re into photography, the Capture Bonaire Photo Contest is an exciting opportunity to showcase your skills. Running until September 19th, the contest encourages participants to capture the island’s natural beauty and unique moments. The winners will be announced on September 23rd, just ahead of another key event—the Fourth Annual Tourism Summit. Read more about the photography contest here.
Industry insights at the Bonaire tourism summit
On September 27th, the Bonaire tourism summit will bring together stakeholders and partners to discuss the island’s future in tourism. Themed “The journeys we take together”, this summit will cover important topics such as airlift strategies, marketing campaigns, and public relations efforts. It’s an invaluable event for anyone invested in Bonaire’s growing tourism industry.
Where to stay on Bonaire
For visitors coming to the island for Bonaire tourism month, finding the perfect accommodation is key to enjoying your stay. We offer a range of vacation rentals, from oceanfront villas to charming apartments in Kralendijk. These accommodations are perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxing and convenient place to stay. With easy access to all the island’s top attractions, you’ll feel right at home while enjoying everything Bonaire tourism month has to offer.
Wrapping up Bonaire tourism month with a culinary finale
The month-long celebration will end with a bang at the Taste of Bonaire event on September 28th. This food festival highlights the island’s diverse culinary scene, featuring local dishes that showcase the best of Bonaire’s flavors. It’s the perfect way to close out Bonaire tourism month, offering visitors a delicious and memorable experience.
Whether you’re enjoying island festivities, attending the summit, or indulging in local cuisine, Bonaire tourism month is the best time to experience the island’s culture and hospitality. There’s still time to join in on the fun and discover why Bonaire is such a special destination!