Bonaire

Touching down at Flamingo International Airport (BON), you’re immediately greeted by the warm trade winds and the island’s laid-back rhythm. Before you start exploring, there are a few essentials to handle. Bonaire transitioned to the US Dollar (USD) as its official currency, making it straightforward for many international travelers to manage their budget. To make things even easier, you can use the Hello app to track your spending in real-time as you pick up supplies in Kralendijk.

Most visitors must pay a mandatory Visitor Entry Tax of $75 USD, which is best handled online before you arrive. Similarly, if you plan to enter the water—whether for diving, snorkeling, or even just swimming—you are required to purchase a STINAPA Nature Fee ($40 USD for divers, $25 USD for others). To ensure you can access your digital QR codes for these fees and navigate to your accommodation without hunting for Wi-Fi, activate a Hello eSIM before you land. Having reliable data from the moment you touch down means you can skip the airport kiosk lines and head straight to the beach. It’s the most efficient way to stay connected across the island without worrying about unexpected roaming charges.

Bonaire is world-renowned as the 'Shore Diving Capital of the World,' and for good reason. The island is fringed by a protected marine park with over 85 designated dive sites, most of which are accessible right from the beach. Look for the iconic yellow-painted stones along the coastal road; these mark entry points for sites like 1000 Steps, where you can spot hawksbill turtles, and Salt Pier, famous for the massive schools of fish congregating beneath its pillars.

Planning your underwater adventures is a breeze when you use the Hello trip planning feature to organize your daily dive sites based on wind conditions and location. If you’re traveling with a buddy, you can log your tank rental costs and shared gear fees directly in the app. Beyond the reef, don’t miss Washington Slagbaai National Park. This rugged wilderness in the north requires a sturdy vehicle to navigate, but rewards you with secluded bays like Boka Slagbaai and the chance to see flamingos in their natural lagoons. Whether you’re underwater or trekking through the cactus-lined trails, the island’s commitment to conservation is evident everywhere you look.

The culinary scene in Bonaire is a delightful mix of Dutch influence and Caribbean soul. In the heart of Kralendijk, you’ll find everything from high-end waterfront dining to casual food trucks. For an authentic taste of the island, seek out Kabritu Stoba, a rich and savory goat stew, or grab a Pastechi (a fried pastry filled with cheese or meat) for a quick breakfast on the go. If you’re looking for a unique experience, head to Kite City food truck at Te Amo Beach for fresh fish wraps while watching the sunset.

Dining out with a group is one of the highlights of a Bonaire trip, but calculating the bill at the end of a long day in the sun can be a chore. The Hello app simplifies this by allowing you to split expenses with your travel companions instantly. You can record the total in USD and ensure everyone pays their fair share for that extra round of Bright beers or a decadent gelato from Gio’s. By keeping your budget organized in the app, you can focus more on the flavors and less on the math, making your island evenings as stress-free as your mornings on the reef.

To truly experience Bonaire, renting a pickup truck is highly recommended. The island’s terrain, especially within the national park and along the rugged east coast, can be demanding. A truck also allows you to utilize the 'drive-through' tank exchange services offered by local dive shops like Buddy Dive or VIP Diving. When driving, keep a watchful eye out for the island’s most famous residents: wild donkeys and goats, who often have the right of way on the winding roads.

As you navigate from the pink salt pans in the south to the historic village of Rincon, having a steady data connection via your Hello eSIM is invaluable for using GPS and checking local opening hours. If you find yourself at Lac Bay, a world-class windsurfing spot, you can use your data to check the wind forecast in real-time. Bonaire is a small island, but it is packed with hidden gems that are best discovered at your own pace. With your itinerary organized in the Hello app and your connectivity sorted, you’re free to follow the yellow stones and discover the magic of the 'B' in the ABC islands.