Dia di Boneiru–Bonaire’s Flag Day

Last Wednesday, September 6 was a holiday in Bonaire. Dia di Boneiru or Flag Day in Bonaire. The day is a legal holiday so businesses and restaurants are closed. The capital, Kralendijk, hosts a parade with scouts, marching band, military, dignitaries, etc. The flag is reverently carried in a processing and raised while the national anthem is sung. The festivities also include speeches from leaders, awards to citizens for their work promoting Bonaire’s culture and customs, musical performances, dancing and lots of fun.

Somehow, I managed to find myself in some pretty decent spots to observe the ceremony. There was a moving speech from Lt Governor, Reynolds “Nolly” Oleana. While I don’t know exactly what was said, as it was in Papiamentu, I could tell it was moving as we must have been asked to share a kindness as people started turning around and hugging each other…friends and strangers alike. It was a very lovely vibe. Yes, I joined in on this with lots of random hugging as instructed (presumably). There were appearances from Deputy Gov, Miss Tourism Bonaire, several musical performers and many dancers. The awards portion recognized several Bonairians for their efforts on behalf of the island.

There was a lovely couple who performed several times. I’ve searched the internet to find out who they are to know avail. They must be dignitaries or representatives of Bonaire or Flag Day. Regardless, they were dressed in a lovely white, green and pink flamingo print matching ensemble. They danced effortlessly and were my favorite performers! Such flamazing attire!

To close out the ceremony, dancers representing various countries performed. Some of the countries represented included, China, Venezuela, Colombia, United States, Bonaire and a few others. The songs for the United States were Cotton Eyed Joe and Electric Slide! When Cotton Eyed Joe began, I must admit I looked around waiting to see if it was a joke. It wasn’t! I’m not sure what song(s) I think they should have used but it sure wasn’t those two! I’d love to hear what song(s) you think represent the U.S.

The park downtown also had art, craft and food vendors to celebrate flag day. I enjoyed wandering around and looking at the goodies. I also enjoyed a delicious lunch from a local vendor. It was so neat to witness Bonairian pride and a lovely Dia di Boneiru celebration. Someone even gave me a Bonaire flag! My first national flag day celebration…check!

Later in the week, I took some time to drive around the island and do some exploring. I found a nice bay where I could watch people kite sailing and/or windsurfing. This area had concrete picnic benches with beautiful Bonairian inspired mosaic tops. I also went to Jibe City, the windsurfing mecca, on Bonaire. It was awesome to watch folks do their thing here. This place has a very fun, funky vibe which I very much enjoyed. The views and water are amazing. Who knows, maybe I’ll take a lesson while we’re here. Yolo, right?!

David and I also had an opportunity to dine at a local favorite, Karel’s Beach Bar and Restaurant. I don’t think I’ve ever had such delicious calamari! It was scrumptious and I look forward to feasting on it again. We also ran into a couple from the States we’d seen a week or so prior and enjoyed some visiting with them for a while. A very relaxing, delicious and enjoyable evening. :)

This & That:

• There is a large iguana that lives in, or frequently hangs out in, a tree outside our balcony. I’ve included a few pics. Please appreciate the one where a ‘razzle dazzle’ pose is on full display.

• There is a store here with flamingo chandeliers. It's simply flamazing!! ;)

• ‘Aardappel bolletjes’ in Dutch translates to “potato balls” NOT tater tots! Lesson learned.

• I’ve made it to 10 of 53 snorkel sites.

• I’ve included a picture of the sharptail eel. I still think it looks like a sea snake. I’ve seen several now…and they still spook me.

• David saw a seahorse and mini shrimp on a recent dive and oftentimes sees moray eels. This is super exciting (the seahorse sighting)!! I long to see a seahorse myself but they are difficult to see when you're on the surface.

• I learn more and more about our 'wasmachine' each time I use it. There is one symbol that still remains elusive.

• A "feels like" temperature of 98 degrees on a consistent basis is truly something to behold. I thank the heavens above for aircon in the bedrooms and auto as well as beautiful water to jump in whenever I like. :)

• The sunsets continue to remain spectacular. I don't think we could ever tire of them.

#bonaire

#bonaireisland

#bonairetourism

#dia_di_boneiru