How We’re Helping Protect Paradise

Bonaire is more than just a beautiful island—it’s a place with a deep commitment to sustainability and environmental protection. Over the years, the island has worked hard to preserve its natural beauty, from the vibrant coral reefs to the diverse wildlife that calls Bonaire home. As a family, we’ve always felt a responsibility to do our part in protecting this paradise, and we’re proud to align our properties, Villa Vos and Kas Vos, with Bonaire’s conservation efforts.

Here’s how Bonaire, and we as hosts, are contributing to sustainable tourism, and how you can help protect this incredible island during your stay.

Bonaire’s Commitment to Conservation

Bonaire has long been at the forefront of environmental protection in the Caribbean. In fact, the waters around Bonaire and Klein Bonaire were declared a protected marine park over 40 years ago. The island is also home to Washington Slagbaai National Park, which protects the northern part of the island and provides a sanctuary for over 500 species of plants and animals.

The Bonaire National Marine Park (managed by STINAPA) is one of the best examples of how the island is dedicated to sustainable tourism. The park not only protects the coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds but also ensures that visitors can enjoy Bonaire’s natural wonders without causing harm. Before diving, snorkeling, or swimming in the marine park, visitors must pay a nature fee, which directly supports the conservation and management of Bonaire’s marine and terrestrial ecosystems.

Our Sustainability Practices at Villa Vos and Kas Vos

At Villa Vos and Kas Vos, we’ve made sustainability a priority. We believe that small changes can have a big impact, and we’ve implemented several eco-friendly practices to ensure that we’re doing our part to reduce our footprint:

• Energy Conservation: We encourage guests to use air conditioning mindfully, ensuring that windows and doors are closed when the AC is on. Our properties are designed to take advantage of the natural breeze, so you can enjoy the fresh air while keeping energy use down.
• Waste Reduction: Bonaire is a small island, and waste management is a critical issue. We provide recycling options at both properties and encourage guests to minimize waste by using reusable water bottles, shopping bags, and containers.
• Water Conservation: Water is a precious resource on Bonaire. We ask our guests to be mindful of water use, whether it’s taking shorter showers or reusing towels during their stay. The island’s water is produced through desalination, so every drop counts!
• Local Partnerships: We’ve partnered with local businesses like Dive Friends Bonaire and Carib Car Rental—both of which are committed to sustainable practices. By supporting these businesses, you’re contributing to Bonaire’s eco-friendly tourism efforts.

How You Can Help Protect Bonaire

As visitors to Bonaire, there are several ways you can help protect the island’s natural beauty:

1. Pay the Nature Fee: The STINAPA Nature Fee is required for anyone diving, snorkeling, or swimming in the Bonaire National Marine Park. The $40 fee helps fund critical conservation work, and by paying it, you’re directly contributing to protecting the island’s reefs and wildlife.
2. Respect the Coral Reefs: Coral reefs are delicate ecosystems, and it’s important to avoid touching or stepping on the coral when snorkeling or diving. Make sure to use reef-safe sunscreen to prevent harmful chemicals from damaging the marine life.
3. Support Local Conservation Efforts: Bonaire offers several opportunities to get involved with conservation. Whether it’s participating in a reef clean-up or visiting the Donkey Sanctuary, there are plenty of ways to give back to the island during your stay.
4. Choose Eco-Friendly Activities: Bonaire is full of eco-friendly activities, from kayaking through the mangroves to bird-watching at Gotomeer. Opt for tours and experiences that prioritize sustainability and environmental education.

Why It Matters

Sustainable tourism isn’t just about preserving Bonaire’s natural beauty for the future—it’s about ensuring that visitors today can enjoy the island responsibly. As a family, we’ve always felt a strong connection to Bonaire, and we want to make sure that future generations can experience the same sense of wonder and tranquility that we do every time we return.

By staying at Villa Vos or Kas Vos, you’re already taking a step toward responsible travel. Together, we can protect this paradise and keep Bonaire as beautiful as ever for years to come.