As of March 20, fully vaccinated travelers with a second vaccine or booster shot administered within 270 days of entry are no longer required to take a PCR or antigen test when entering Bonaire. The easing of these travel requirements coincides with the island’s first-ever rum festival, set to take place this summer.
“The safety of our locals and visitors has always been a top-priority and the decline of COVID cases encourages relaxed entry restrictions. Our vibrant local community welcomes the responsible global adventurer and foodie traveler to explore the unsurpassed natural beauty and eco-friendly treasures this island has to offer,” said Miles B. M. Mercera, CEO, Tourism Corporation Bonaire. “In hosting our first annual Rum Week we can showcase to the world another side to Bonaire, one of authentic cuisine, award-winning local rum and colorful island life.”
Fully vaccinated guests who received their vaccine or booster shot more than 270 days prior to entry, as well as those who do not meet vaccination requirements, will still be required to provide an antigen test within 24 hours prior to departure or a PCR test within 48 hours prior to arrival to Bonaire.
© Courtesy of Tourism Corporation Bonaire
The altered travel requirements come just in time for Bonaire Rum Week, June 14–17. Tourism Corporation Bonaire partnered with the Caribbean Journal, the same team behind the annual Caribbean Rum Awards festival, to host Bonaire Rum Week, which will showcase the island’s culinary traditions by exploring the region’s finest rums.
The festival will include signature rum punches, tiki bars and microbreweries. Beginning with an opening party at Rum Runners, this event kicks off the festival with Aruba’s celebrated Papiamento Rum in an oceanfront setting at one of Bonaire’s most popular bars.
On June 15, take part in Rum on the Beach at Plaza Beach & Dive Resort, where guests will indulge in the island’s best rums, as well as enjoy the island’s culinary culture. A cocktail competition at the island’s new bar, Tiki & Co. will take place that evening to allow guests to further enjoy the island’s best concoctions. Witness the island’s best bartenders battle to create the best rum cocktail.
© Courtesy of Tourism Corporation Bonaire
Enjoy a rum-infused lunch at beachfront La Balandra restaurant on June 16. The lunch, presented by San Juan Artisan Distillers, also encourages guests to indulge in the festive bar on hand for premium sampling. That evening, the Caribbean’s top spiced rum, Clifton Estate Rum, will grace happy hour at Blennies Restaurant & Bar at Buddy Dive Resort Bonaire.
The festival wraps up with a delicious, multicourse dinner at the oceanfront Brass Boer, led by renowned Michelin-starred chefs Johnny and Therese Boer. Fans of cigars can extend the festival even more that same night by enjoying Papa’s Pilar Rum and premium cigars at Delfins Beach Resort.
Are you planning a trip to Bonaire this year? Will you be attending Bonaire Rum Week? What are you most excited to experience at the festival? Tell us your thoughts. Email us at letters@globaltravelerusa.com. Please include your full name and location.
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