|
Languages: Dutch (English, Spanish, and Papiamento widely spoken)
Currency: Netherlands Antillean florin or guilder
Temperature: Average 82°F year-round
Square Miles: 112
Approx. Population: 13,000
In this former Dutch colony, quaint Old World towns and Dutch-speakers still remain. In the capital, Kralendijk, colorful houses and an arched fruit market contribute to the charm. The inland town of Rincon is the oldest on the island, and served as a hideaway for pirates in the 17th century. Water sports draw many of the island's tourists. While windsurfers flock to Lac Bay, divers and snorkelers are lured by the 111-square-mile Bonaire Marine Park and about 370 underwater species.
Besides underwater critters, many animals live on Bonaire's 112 square miles of land. Iguanas, roadrunners, and birds live in the Washington Slagbaai National Park, where curious rock formations, such as Seru Bentana, add to the landscape. About 5,000 flamingos reside in the southern salt flats, and wild donkeys roam the countryside. Other donkeys reside in the Donkey Sanctuary, where you can meet them up close.
|
