Discover the new Bonaire tourist tax supporting the island’s infrastructure and tourism, its payment options, and the introduction of the Bonaire Bond.
Introduction
Bonaire, our enthralling island nestled in the Caribbean Sea, boasts stunning diving spots, picturesque landscapes, and pristine beaches. These features attract travelers from around the world for a Bonaire holiday. To accommodate the growing number of visitors, the island has rolled out a new Bonaire tourist tax starting from July 1, 2022. This tax supports the island’s infrastructure, tourism, eco-efforts, and education. It ensures a sustainable and fun experience for tourists and residents alike. In this article, we’ll delve into the tax details, its replacement of previous taxes, payment options, and the Bonaire Bond.
Bonaire Tourist Tax Details
Amount and Applicability
Visitors and tourists traveling to Bonaire must now pay a Visitor Entry Tax of $75 per visit. The tax applies to non-residents aged 13 and older coming to the island. However, non-residents aged 12 and younger and former Dutch Antilles residents will pay a reduced fee of just $10 per visit.
Replacing Previous Taxes with the Visitor Entry Tax
The new Bonaire tourist tax replaces the previous ‘kamerbelasting‘ (room tax) and ‘huurautobelasting‘ (car rental tax). The Visitor Entry Tax shifts the fiscal responsibility from providers to non-residents, creating a fair taxation system for everyone involved.
Payment Options
To avoid potential queues and waiting periods at Flamingo International Airport, Bonaire officials advise visitors to pay the tax online in advance on the especially designed website. Online payments also streamline the tax collection process, improving overall efficiency.
Visitors can also pay upon arrival at the airport. However, most travelers will likely find the online payment method more convenient.
Streamlining the Collection Process
The Tourism Corporation Bonaire (TCB) supports streamlining the tax collection process for seamless operations for visitors and island administration. Thanks to their assistance, the tourism sector positively welcomed the new system, which simplifies the tax collection process for businesses within the sector.
By modernizing the tax collection process and emphasizing an improved visitor experience, Bonaire presents itself as a progressive and forward-thinking tourist destination.
Bonaire Bond Introduction and Access Requirements
Bonaire has also introduced the Bonaire Bond, a new destination promise that aims to strengthen the relationship between visitors and the island. During the purchase of their Visitor Entry Tax, guests can sign the Bonaire Bond. By doing so, they pledge to respect the island’s rules and positively impact the local community.
Alongside the Bonaire tourist tax, authorities have removed all access requirements previously in place, enhancing the overall tourism experience on the island.
Preserving the island’s beauty
In conclusion, the Bonaire tourist tax offers multiple advantages and enhancements for both the island and its visitors. With its modern and streamlined perspective, the tax guarantees the island’s infrastructure sustainability and tourism sector growth. Miles B. M. Mercera, CEO of Tourism Corporation Bonaire, encourages visitors to pay the tax in advance on the website for a hassle-free arrival experience.
By adopting the new Bonaire tourist tax and the Bonaire Bond, travelers contribute to preserving the island’s untouched beauty and ensuring its continued success as a first-rate tourist destination. So, plan your journey, pay the tax, and get ready for a memorable adventure on this captivating Caribbean island.