CMWA Bonaire 2011 – May 1 to 22 (depart Toronto April 30)
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 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 www.expedia.ca or www.continentalairlines.com. 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 CMWA members from England but managed by and next door to the KonTiki Beach Club. www.kontikibonaire.com There is also Villa Trepanier at www.villatrepanier.com. 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. The SOROBON is now owned by and managed by Jibe City, www.jibecity.com. Another option run by Roger Jurriens if you’re looking for casual elegance for your next Bonaire vacation, Sonrisa Rooms & Apartments http://www.sonrisabonaire.com. Sonrisa Rooms & Apartments is a boutique hotel with units overlooking either a small garden on the windy side or the pool. Sonrisa is centrally located with just a three-minute walk to the small public beach, “Chachacha”, and only five minutes from most restaurants on the boulevard and a supermarket. Eat in or eat out, most places have kitchens so you can opt to make your own food which is a great cost saving. There are many grocery stores on the island but remember that it is a desert so nothing is grown on the island itself.
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.
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.