THE STORIES BEHIND BONAIRE
THE SECRETS OF BONAIRE
THE SECRETS OF BONAIRE
Experience
Bonaire is an island with a special character. Behind the water, the colorful culture, and the beaches lie special stories. Stories of people who shape, protect, and contribute every day to what makes Bonaire so unique.
From Plaza Resort Bonaire, we believe that hospitality goes beyond a stay. It also means being involved in the place where we live and work. With Secrets of Bonaire, we share these stories. From inspiring locals and remarkable nature to initiatives that keep the island sustainable and authentic. These are stories that reveal what lies behind the beauty of Bonaire and why this island is so much more than just a vacation destination.
On this page, you will discover some of these stories. Small insights into what makes the character of Bonaire and its people special.
Rated fantastic From 436 reliable reviews
The Reef
The Reef
Secrets of Bonaire
The Reef tells the story of Lola, who was once afraid of the ocean's depth and now contributes to the restoration of Bonaire’s coral reefs through the Reef Renewal Foundation Bonaire. Her mission shows how vulnerable and powerful underwater life is.
From Van der Valk Plaza Resort Bonaire, we support this initiative with our own coral nursery on our house reef, 18th Palms. Because protecting Bonaire’s nature starts with the people who dedicate themselves to it every day.
The Mangrove
The Mangrove
Secrets of Bonaire
The Mangroves tells the story of Blue, who through the Mangrove Center Bonaire allows visitors to discover why the mangroves of Lac Bay are so essential to Bonaire's ecosystem.
As part of the Bonaire National Marine Park, these mangroves protect the coast and serve as a nursery for marine life. At Van der Valk Plaza Resort Bonaire, we believe that preserving this nature is indispensable for the island's future. From Van der Valk Plaza Resort Bonaire, we support this initiative with our own coral nursery on our house reef, 18th Palms. Because protecting Bonaire’s nature begins with the people who commit to it every day.
The Cadushy Distillery
The Cadushy Distillery
Secrets of Bonaire
The Cadushy Distillery tells the story of Eric Gietman, who brings the flavors and traditions of Bonaire to life with The Cadushy Distillery. In Rincon, the oldest village on the island, he processes local ingredients like cadushy cactus into characterful liqueurs and spirits that tell the story of Bonaire.
At Van der Valk Plaza Resort Bonaire, these kinds of family stories feel familiar. Because craftsmanship, tradition, and love for the island are visible in the people who work hard at it every day. At Van der Valk Plaza Resort Bonaire, we support this initiative with our own coral nursery on our house reef, 18th Palms. Because protecting Bonaire's nature starts with the people who dedicate themselves to it every day.
René Brienen
René Brienen
Secrets of Bonaire
Chef René Brienen tells the story of a culinary career that took him from the Netherlands to Bonaire. After cooking at the highest level for many years, he discovered a new source of inspiration on the island. What began as an invitation to cook on Bonaire grew into a deep appreciation for the unique flavors, ingredients, and culture of the island.
On Bonaire, European cooking techniques and Caribbean influences come together. For René, that combination forms the basis of his kitchen. The nature, local products, and the rhythm of the island inspire him every day to surprise guests with special flavors and new culinary experiences.
At Van der Valk Plaza Resort Bonaire, we recognize that passion for craftsmanship and hospitality. Because the most beautiful stories arise when talent, creativity, and the unique atmosphere of Bonaire come together.