On January 21st, BONHATA launched the year with its first networking event of 2026: the Tourism Sector Speed Meet. This session provided a structured opportunity for participants to create new connections and strengthen existing ones within Bonaire’s tourism sector. Unlike our regular networking events, this event featured 8 rounds of focused networking, allowing attendees to … Read more
On 14 January, the Vision 2050 Committee presented its preliminary findings to BONHATA. Appointed by the Executive Council, the Committee is developing a comprehensive long-term vision for Bonaire, providing a structural framework for sustainable development across key areas such as the economy, demographics, environment, society, and public finances. The presentation highlighted recent developments and outlined … Read more
The Bonaire Hotel and Tourism Association (BONHATA) reports that Bonaire reached an important recovery milestone in stay-over tourism in 2025. The average hotel occupancy rate reached 66%, equal to the pre-COVID level of 2019, though still below the Caribbean average. This is shown by recent analyses based on performance data submitted by accommodations affiliated with … Read more
This holiday season, BONHATA was happy to support local primary schools by donating children’s books to classrooms across the island. Written by former primary school teacher Angliet Baidjoe, the stories — Kaki the Cactus 🌵, Lío the Iguana 🦎, and The Journey of Bonnie the Fish 🐠 — reflect island life through the eyes of … Read more
BONHATA met with De Nederlandsche Bank to discuss key challenges affecting payments and financial access on Bonaire. The meeting addressed barriers to modern online payment solutions, high transaction costs, complex banking compliance procedures, and the impact of cash-only operations on fair competition and safety within the tourism economy. BONHATA emphasized that reliable, affordable, and inclusive … Read more
BONHATA Annual General Meeting 2025 at Delfins Beach Resort On November 5th, BONHATA hosted its Annual General Meeting at Delfins Beach Resort, reviewing the achievements, challenges, and activities of the past year and presenting the vision and priorities for 2025–2026. Chris Opgenoort, President of BONHATA, shared his reflections and key lessons from his presidency over … Read more
On October 9th, we hosted our final Masterclass of the year, in collaboration with Gamma IT Solutions and special guest HR expert, Disaeny Molina. This session focused on Gamma IT Solutions’ HR software, Payroll Pro HRM, and explored practical solutions for HR-related challenges in the workplace. The Masterclass began with an introduction to Gamma IT … Read more
On Thursday, August 28, 2025, we hosted our fourth Masterclass of the year. In collaboration with CBS, this session focused on Data-Driven Strategies for the Tourism Industry, offering participants practical insights into using data effectively in the tourism sector. The Masterclass covered key topics such as data collection and sources, how to access and navigate … Read more
A Stronger Quarter, But Caution Ahead The key performance indicators for Q2 2025, compiled data received from resorts that are members of BONHATA. The numbers show notable gains year-over-year across occupancy, rates, and revenue per room. However, a closer look reveals that much of the growth remains cost-driven, raising important questions about long-term sustainability and … Read more
On Thursday, June 26th, BONHATA, in collaboration with Profound Projects, hosted a highly successful and well-attended Digital Marketing Masterclass at Corallium Bonaire. The session was led by Chris Geluk, Profound’s online marketing manager and brought together tourism professionals eager to enhance their online marketing strategies and learn from industry experts. The masterclass focused on key … Read more