Caribbean Holiday
Bonaire, Dutch Caribbean a Work of Art
She looks very alluring to me, “Ruth, take a picture.” Oh how tempted I was to pose with her. Perhaps I am the one she is beckoning? This island mermaid is the beginning of our walk back up the sea shore. We pass boats pulled ashore, fishermen wait to cast off. Runners and walkers greet us with a friendly “Bon Dia!”
Each morning we start out from our Caribbean Hideaway and head for the boulevard. Before the sun is high we are out walking. Flocks of parrots scream through the air. Little yellow birds dance on the sidewalk and sugar birds play hide and seek in the bushes. The night blooming cactus flowers linger open.
before they wilt in the sunlight.
In the distance a cruise ship with almost 4000 passengers glides into port.
Up ahead the island is preparing for a tourist invasion. There is the shore-side market, island tours, scuba lessons, boat rides, even multi-colored water bikes are ready to launch.
Walking along the boulevard, on one side is the sea and big blue parrot fish flash in the coral along with a moray eel or sea snake. Puffer fish and needle nose fish swim with a trumpet fish. Lurking below a small string ray cruises along the sandy bottom.
Across the street, the colorful houses, scuba shops, a sea side bar and other private dwellings and restaurants give life to the city. “It Rains Fishes” and Karel’s Bar are familiar and popular favorites.
After the ship docks the passengers line up and spread out across the island. Perhaps they go look for flamingos.
Maybe they want to visit the piles of sea salt.
Or take a road trip out back, to the “Kunuku.”
We pass by the curious island visitors and continue walking. There are other splashes of color grabbing our attention.
All the while we are being watched.
Blackie announces that we are passing through HIS SPACE!
Island dogs are wonderful. All shapes, colors and sizes, most are friendly and just looking for a treat. But to be safe, I often pick up and carry several rocks. Seems they all have been hit by a flying missile and know what to expect when I get ready to aim and throw. No throw needed.
Bonaire is a special island; it is not crowded like many others. Located in the Southern Caribbean close to South America it is out of the path for hurricanes but blessed with strong Trade Winds that blow the bugs away and keep it cool.
Our bungalow is located in Kralendijk, the main island city.
We have many guests at our house. The lizard
and several friendly iguanas are welcome at our bungalow.
From our place
it is a short walk to the sea where everyday ends with a sunset.
