Since this message board helped me tremendously in planning our 1st, but not last, trip to Bonaire, I wanted to say thanks and give a quick report!

Flew AA out of Houston with husband, 2 adult children and in-laws. Long day, but all went smoothly.

Stayed at Divi in 2 waterfront rooms. Clean rooms, 1 had a fridge and the view could not be beat. Just looking into the water... so many fish including huge parrots and tangs. Loved the convenience of walking distance to town and ease of getting in and out of water. (My in-laws are 76 and 82)

Diving: I don't dive, but husband, son and daughter did only shore dives from the Divi and loved the quantity and quality of sea life. Everyone at Divi Dive was pleasant and professional.

Snorkeling: We all snorkel and got into the water at least 3 times a day. Some of us even did a night snorkel... so many lobster! Bonaire is the best place for snorkeling (in my opinion). In the past, we have been to Cozumel, Grand Cayman, Belize and St. Maarten. One day, we snorkeled with Renee'. This was a highlight of the trip. She pointed out things we would have missed. Finally, saw juvenile spotted drum! We rented a van 1 day, and toured the island. We stopped and snorkeled at 1000 Steps. Saw lots of squid and a huge octopus here. Also, took the water taxi to Klein our last day. Saw turtles here. Had a picnic lunch on the beach.

Restaurants: Had breakfast and lunch in the room most days. We bring a collapsible ice chest for lunch fixings and cold drinks. Had dinner at Donna and Giorgio's, Will's Tropical Grill, El Fogon Latino,Cactus Blue, and La Guernica (for tapas). All great meals, and visited with the friendly owners at each of them. Killer dessert at Will's and of course, fresh fish at all. My husband had steak at El Fogon and loved it. They have a wonderful green sauce there. It was good on steak, fish and the chicken.

The week went by fast and had to get back home. At the airport at 5AM is way too early, and another long day to get home. AA lost 4 pieces of luggage, but these were recovered the next day. We may try the red eye on Continental next time.
A great trip, many fond memories and a place where we will definitely return.

Again, thanks to all for suggestions and helpful comments.

Welcome to BT, Beth. Glad you had a great trip. You'll be back, maybe certified next time.

Welcome Beth. I enjoyed your report. I am so glad you had a nice vacation. I only snorkel right now too. Maybe someday when the kids are older I will get certified to dive. I love looking at everyone's underwater pictures.

Great report, Beth. Glad you enjoyed yourselves. It's an addictive little place, isn't it??

Welcome, Beth

I had to do a double take on your last name....Childers is my maiden name.

Welcome to BT Beth, thanks for a cheery and informative first post.

Welcome to BT Beth! I enjoyed your report. Thanks for sharing. We've used the Continental red-eye flight for both our trips and it's great. We're a little tired, but nothing an afternoon nap won't cure.

A Big Welcome to BT, Beth! Thanks for posting a trip report. Glad you had a great time.

Welcome to BT, Beth
Thanks for the trip report. So you're hooked too

Great trip report and thanks for sharing!!!