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By Kristina Smith
You’ve heard of Blue Zones—however what about Blue Destinations? A Blue Destination “makes sustainable use of ocean resources for growth, wellbeing and jobs while protecting the health of the ocean ecosystem.”
Nestled within the Dutch Caribbean, Bonaire isn’t just an island paradise—it’s the world’s first designated “Blue Destination,” a testomony to its dedication to sustainability and ocean conservation. With one of many final thriving coral reefs on the planet and new accessibility through continuous flights from JFK, Bonaire is an unparalleled escape for travellers who worth each journey and accountable tourism.
A Commitment to Sustainability
Bonaire’s Blue Destination designation signifies its dedication to utilizing ocean assets sustainably to assist the wellbeing of its folks, economic system, and marine ecosystem. This ethos is embodied in The Bonaire Bond, a vacation spot pledge inviting guests to decide to respectful and accountable journey practices.
Beyond phrases, this pledge has tangible impacts: the island adopts a coral tree by way of the Reef Renewal Bonaire Foundation on behalf of holiday makers who signal, straight contributing to coral restoration efforts.
Dive Into Conservation
Bonaire’s vibrant marine life and crystal-clear waters make it a haven for diving fans and marine life lovers alike. At the Harbour Village Beach Club, visitors can witness coral restoration in motion. Its non-public seaside options an underwater nursery with 10 coral bushes the place fragments are grown and transplanted again into the home reef. Visitors can simply entry this residing lab by merely selecting up snorkelling gear from the on-site dive store.
For those that need to dive deeper—actually and figuratively—the island affords the prospect to turn out to be an authorized Reef Renewal Diver, volunteering to assist in coral restoration tasks throughout their keep. Not in Bonaire but? You can nonetheless admire its underwater wonders by way of Harbour Village’s 24/7 live-streaming underwater digital camera.
Why Visit Bonaire Now?
In December 2024, Bonaire’s first continuous flight from New York City launched, opening the door for extra travellers to expertise this distinctive island. The timing couldn’t be extra important; as one of many final sanctuaries for thriving coral reefs, Bonaire’s pure magnificence is a reminder of what’s at stake in a altering world. By visiting, you not solely take pleasure in a slice of paradise but additionally contribute to its preservation for generations to return.
Beyond The Reef
Bonaire isn’t only for scuba divers. From its quaint Dutch Caribbean attraction to vibrant native tradition, the island affords one thing for each traveller. Stroll by way of vibrant streets, take pleasure in farm-to-table eating infused with Caribbean flavours, or unwind on pristine seashores. Every expertise is enriched by the information that your go to helps Bonaire’s mission to maintain its pure magnificence.
Your Turn
Whether you’re an avid diver, a nature lover, or just looking for a serene escape, Bonaire affords an unmatched mix of journey and objective. As the world’s first Blue Destination, it units a brand new normal for the way we are able to journey—with care, respect, and a imaginative and prescient for a sustainable future.
Pack your baggage, signal the Bonaire Bond at bonaireisland.com, and uncover the magic of an island that’s main the best way in sustainable tourism.