CMWA Bonaire 2010 – May 2 to 23 (depart Toronto May 1)

If you like to windsurf, snorkel or dive, this island has it all. The trade winds blow consistently from the south which brings warm winds and keeps the water a comfortable 80+ degrees Fahrenheit. We are going to make this an annual pilgrimage for three weeks each spring forgoing the Hatteras unpredictable spring weather. For those that are interested in joining us, there are a number of places to stay and different methods of travelling to the island. Check out for travelling to Bonaire at www.bonairepros.com. We found the most comfortable was to go as direct as possible by Toronto/Newark/Bonaire using expedia.ca. It is an overnight flight but you can windsurf the day you arrive.

We stay at Lac Bay Villa (www.lacbayvilla.com) which is owned by our friends from England but managed by and next door to the KonTiki Beach Club. www.kontikibonaire.com  There is also Villa Trepanier. Go to www.youtube.com and search for “villa trepanier a Bonaire”. It is on the other side of the island not more than 10 minutes from the windsurf rental places. If you contact Edith directly she will give you special rates. If you like to go natural, there is the SOROBON next door to Jibe City and Bonaire Windsurf Place. Renting equipment is much easier than trying to transport your own and the equipment at both Bonaire Windsurf place and Jibe City is excellent. Bonaire Place is run by three excellent post Olympians. One of which continues to race at the World Cup level. Their instruction is beyond great. Roger Juriens has offered to give the CMWA membership a discount on Board rental and lessons if you rent from them. He also has deluxe accommodations in the downtown area. www.Bonairewindsurfplace.com

Most places have kitchens so you can opt to make your own food which is a great cost saving vs. eating in restaurants. There are many grocery stores on the island but remember that it is a desert so nothing is grown on the island itself. The total cost varies depending on your flight route, where you stay, how long you stay and how many days you windsurf. 

For more information on trips to Bonaire, see the photos at www.windsurf.ca or contact Stephanie at surfit@sympatico.ca.