Walking Around Kralendijk, Bonaire

Bonaire was populated by the Arawaks for thousands of years before Spain claimed the island in 1499.  In 1634 the Dutch took control and saw a future in salt production which lasted until the 19th century.  The island then alternated between Dutch and British rule for many years and, during World War II, was a protectorate of Britain and the United States.  After the war, Bonaire returned to direct Dutch rule as a special municipality within the Netherlands (sharing this designation with Saba and Sint Eustatius).  The Netherland Antilles was formally dissolved in 2010 and Bonaire is now an independent nation within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

The capital, Kralendijk is filled with colorful buildings, restaurants, cafes, and bars.  We walk over from the dock and explore.

Walking tour

Motto to live by

We first walk past the waterfront, with restaurants and shops on one side and cruise ships and bars and more restaurants on the water on the other.

Town on one side

Harbor on the other

As we walk away from the harbor and then parallel to it on streets withing the town, we encounter fun artwork on the sidewalks and more art and vibrant colors on the walls of the buildings.

Sidewalk art

Colorful buildings

Art on the walls

In the center of town, a time capsule was set up in 2002 to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Bonaire Lions Club with letters and contemporary articles, to be opened in another 40 years:  2042.

Time capsule

Circling back to the ship, we pass along the harbor and return to enjoy an on-deck barbeque as the sun sets and evening descends.

Returning to the ship

Sunset

Dining on deck

Thus comes the fabulous end to another great day on board and on shore!