Bonaire Proud of Recognition
Bonaire really is a special place. Those of us that live here recognize just how lucky we are to live on one of the most pristine islands in the world. Not only is the island beautiful, but we are surrounded by the most amazing seawater teeming with fabulous and unique sea life.
In the spring, the island was fortunate to receive the prestigious Islands Magazine/Caribbean Tourism Organization’s 2008 Sustainable Tourism Award. The island received this award as recognition of the longstanding commitment and leadership role in marine conversation and for the proactive measures taken to protect the marine environment.
It is gratifying that the work done by committed groups, volunteers and private citizens is being recognized. To receive this award, a panel of judges from Islands Magazine and the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), reviewed all the entries submitted by CTO countries. In addition to the 2008 award, Bonaire was also recognized in 2007 when three of Bonaire’s eco-programs were honored in the Islands Magazine Hot 100 Blue List.
Worldwide, Bonaire continues to receive accolades for its commitment to the marine environment and for sustainable tourism. In fact, National Geographic Traveler Magazine (March 2004) and Islands Magazine (December 2007), both gave accolades for this sustainable tourism commitment. In addition, Bonaire was voted as the Top Diving Destination in the Atlantic/Caribbean for six years in a row in the Scuba Diving Magazine’s Reader’s Choice Awards (2003 through 2008).
Also in 2008, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) designated Bonaire as having the most pristine coral reef environment. Bonaire’s coral reef continues to set the standard upon which all other coral reefs are compared. In addition, an official study found that Bonaire houses more species of fish than any other Caribbean island.
All these accolades are gratifying and hopefully they will encourage those from other countries to follow the conservation lead of the dedicated islanders. Anyone interested in visiting Bonaire for snorkeling, diving or other water sports can rest easy knowing that they will be visiting one of the most pristine islands worldwide!