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- - - 2017 Hurricane Season - - -
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- Bon aña
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- By ann phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Mon, 1 Jan 2018 17:27:43 +0000
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Happy New Year
Wishing you all positive vibes, delightful experiences and abundance in love
and prosperity! Are those still without electricity, I pray it comes on soon.
Annie on Bonaire
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- weather and fireworks
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- By ann phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Sun, 31 Dec 2017 02:34:44 +0000
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Bon Noche
We are night three into the sales of fireworks all over the island. Already, many animals are missing, spooked by the noise. It’s a huge dilemma here. They are so pretty but 5+ days of major fireworks (think like your small home town’s local display and
that happens all over EVERY night).
The second bit of news is, rain. Lots of it. We had torrential downpours last night and for two weeks, drizzle, here and there. Thankfully, the wind is good for my windsurf clients.
Wellness enthusiasts, please take a look at our Bonaire Wellness page. A special thanks to Nature’s Discount Store for sponsoring the locals featured on the site
Cheers from Bonaire. May your new year be blissful.
Skype: caribchakita
Twitter: bonairebliss
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- Photo
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- By ann phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Fri, 29 Dec 2017 15:57:24 +0000
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Skype: caribchakita
Twitter: bonairebliss
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- Bon Aña
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- By ann phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Fri, 29 Dec 2017 15:54:25 +0000
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Bon Aña from the Dutch Caribbean
The Christmas trades are blowing and all is well. We have had some of the typical showers seen in Dec. Everything is green. The island was super quiet but now, is packed with happy tourists. Cruise ship tourism is in full force. I think we filled in as replacements
for ports, closed, due to the fall hurricanes. I love the small boutique lines but the mega ships are not nice. Those in the know say the vibration and activity is impacting the reef from Captain Don’s towards the south of town. I wish our island’s government
consider our fragile eco system instead of the few dollars the cruise ships bring in to the few.
Take a peak at Bonaire Bliss for island updates.
I hope everyone has a healthy and happy New Year! Here’s a snap of me, enjoying some Christmas
bread. Anything wish Marzipan is lovely.
Skype: caribchakita
Twitter: bonairebliss
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- Bon Dia
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- By ann phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Tue, 31 Oct 2017 10:56:04 +0000
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Bon Dia Bon Siman
I am on Cape Cod for a fall respite. The crisp air feels so good. Today is Halloween in the US. Our weather was wild Sunday into Monday. A huge storm passed wreaking havoc with severe winds. Many are still without power. Nothing can compare to the devastation
in the Caribbean. Still, it serves as a reminder as to how vulnerable the people of the islands are and how much easier it is to withstand a storm where infrastructure is sound and repairs are more accessible.
Bonaire has had some decent rain. We are entering into our rainy season. Let’s see how it goes.
From a tourism perspective, I have not seen an increase in bookings but airfares are super high. I suspect the private rentals from Air BnB and VRBO are filling up. Tourism will never be the same thanks to these booking platforms. Like or or love em, they
are here to stay and are huge competition for hotels and traditional properties.
Some news; take a look at part 2 of my Wellness Initiative www.bonairewellness.com A group of locals and ex pats gathered to create a website spotlighting services in areas of wellness. It was a labour of love.
Last but not least, if there is anyone in SXM or the islands who need to getaway, I am happy to open up my home. It’s best for 1-2 people so pop me an email. I won’t be back until 18th Nov.
Pasa bon dushi dia tur hende
Annie
Barbuda Sand…
Skype: caribchakita
Twitter: bonairebliss
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- Rain
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- By ann phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Fri, 20 Oct 2017 11:11:18 +0000
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Good morning
Things have definitely quieted down in the Caribbean and that's a good thing.
Every day, I search the Internet for information on positive updates on all the
recovery efforts. As a US citizen, I'm embarrassed and ashamed at the way our
administration is handling support for our US territories. I am inspired by the
stories on all of the islands, where people are coming together and support one
another.
The Islander of Bonaire had some pretty good rain and some dark skies yesterday
and my garden is very happy.
Thanking about tourism from the perspective that I consider on a daily basis
based on my profession, I must say I have not had an onslaught of inquiries for
folks coming to Bonaire however, there must be a supply and demand issue
because airfares are off the roof in fact, I had 10 people last week tell me
they're not returning to Bonaire because airfare is over $1500 per ticket
My heart is still in the Caribbean and my support and positive thoughts for all
of you remain. Your stories are astounding, and I thank you for this form in
this community where we can share and support one another
Annie
Sent from my iPhone
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- Dominica
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- By ann phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Tue, 19 Sep 2017 01:02:17 +0000
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Good evening
I am shocked to learn that hurricane Maria is now category five passing over
beautiful Dominica
I cannot even imagine what people must be going through right now on that
beautiful island. In the morning it will be no doubt complete devastation that
we will be hearing about
I pray that somehow everyone escape from harms way
Ann
Sent from my iPhone
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- website
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- By ann phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Mon, 18 Sep 2017 14:33:55 +0000
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Bon Dia Bon Siman
Eli Fuller from Antigua shared this website.
Be safe, all. May this storm pass quickly and all left in it’s wake, are safe and unharmed.
Skype: caribchakita
Twitter: bonairebliss
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- Animal Welfare
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- By ann phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Sun, 17 Sep 2017 22:30:54 +0000
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Bon Noche
I am touched by the compassion and love for animal welfare on the islands. A lovely group in Antigua are caring for the many abandoned animals on Barbuda. I just read Jennifer’s sharing about her work in the shelter to assist dogs traumatized by thunder.
Jennifer, look for an email. I have a few ideas.
Does anyone know of the plight of the dolphins in Tortola? The dolphins of Anguilla? I pray those horrid Swim with the Dolphin Programs end soon. They are barbaric and inhumane on too many levels.
Be well all during the passage of Maria. Words cannot describe my emotions with yet another storm on the heels of monster, Irma.
Fare thee well…
Ann
Skype: caribchakita
Twitter: bonairebliss
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- More weather
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- By ann phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Sun, 17 Sep 2017 12:37:23 +0000
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Greetings from Cape Cod
I am here for my fall sojourn. My focus today is on Maria. I am praying this storm changes direction, somehow. The islands cannot endure another beating.
The posts here are inspiring. They are also a stark reminder of the fragility of these islands. I read a startling article about global warming and how the Caribbean needs to develop plans for their future considering building codes, emergency planning
and infrastructure. What lies ahead?
I needed to direct my thoughts into some sort of focus so I wrote an article today. It helped me gather my thoughts. I hope you all have a lovely day.
Be well
Skype: caribchakita
Twitter: bonairebliss
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- update
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- By ann phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Sun, 10 Sep 2017 21:38:16 +0000
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Bon Tarde
Bonaire had a day of rain and lower temps two days ago. It was a welcome respite from the days of no wind and heat. Everyone is reading of the utter chaos in the Eastern Caribbean. Each day, more information is released, indicating how dire the situation
is in many of the islands. The civil unrest and violence I am reading of in SXM and US and BVI’s is unconceivable but on the other hand, believeble. During desperate times, the ugliest in people comes out. Yet, there are so many amazing stories of humanitarian
aid. Antiguans made the passage back and forth to their sister island to rescue the people of Barbuda. Some lovely women set up a Go Fund Me for the care of the animals. Sam Branson has been posting on IG his efforts to get supplies from Barbados to the BVI’s.
I am hearing first hand of neighbors helping neighbors.
I believe this; unrest and civil disobedience can happen anywhere there there are desperate times. It’s happened in the US (think Rodney King) and could happen again.
As I watch the situation unfold in Florida I keep telling my boyfriend, the wind and rain they are seeing now as a Cat. 2 storm (at this writing) pales in comparison to what Barbuda, Sint Maarten, St. Martin, St. Barths and others MUST have seen. Imagine
200+ wind gusts? Imagine containers rolling down the road? Imagine a child being blown out of your hand.
As a travel professional, I am mindful how this entire catastrophe will long impact the people of the islands. Cruise ship season is in Nov. Dec. is the start of peak tourist season. Many islands will not be able to rebuild in time. I am trying to remain
optimistic and have positive hope. Somedays, it’s difficult.
Peace
Skype: caribchakita
Twitter: bonairebliss
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- Grattide
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- By ann phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Fri, 8 Sep 2017 18:37:00 +0000
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Greetings
How does one even articulate the many emotions connected to what has transpired the last few days. We are all here as part of a tremendous community with one connection; the Caribbean. Our heart, our soul and our lives are linked to little islands in a
vast sea. Over the years, we have shared trials and tribulations. We have reported on weather woes, shared storm stories and supported each other. Thanks Gert for allowing this forum.
My story started on holiday in January 1987 when my Mom took me to Antigua. I fell in love with the people and later, a wonderful man. Antigua became my home. Later, a child was born, a beautiful Antiguan girl.My connection to Antigua will always be in
my heart but now, I am linked to the other side of our vast sea, Bonaire.
Today, as I consider the devastating impact of Irma, I am in utter shock. I saw the wrath of Hugo, Gilbert, Luis, Marilyn, Floyd and a few others. There has been NOTHING like this. I am overwhelmed pondering how everything will come back to order. I know
everyone will rebuild or relocate and in time. All will be well. But for now, like so many, I sit in the comforts of my home feeling paralyzed.
I have such gratitude for my life. I have a roof over my head. Water flows from the pipe. I can turn on the fan or TV. I do not take any of this for granted.
Today, my emotional focus and attention is on Antigua. I am waiting to see what I can do to help. An internet friend, Eli Fuller posted a video and suggested everyone wait before sending money. They are working arduously, going back and forth to Barbuda
with supplies and passenger transport. Eli is one of many, helping their neighbors.
My thoughts have gone to the animals impacted by this story. I am worried about the dolphins in Anguilla. They were relocated to a hotel pool until the next plan is made. I won’t discuss my views of such “Discover Dolphin” programs. I am just focused
now on the plight of these mammals. The same situation is in The BVI’s where that program was severely impacted. There is no word on the plight of those lovely mammals. What I do know is, there are lovely people mobilized to help the many animals who will
be left behind on Barbuda, to fend for themselves. They include cattle, pigs, cats, dogs and donkeys.
In the past, I have asked you all to contribute to Gert’s website. Today, I am asking for your help again. I know many of you who are not impacted by Irma are contemplating how you can help others. If you would, if you love animals, could you kindly consider
donating to this amazing effort to help the animals of Barbuda? It will be a VERY long time before people will be able to return to their homes.
I love the Caribbean. I love Bonaire. And, I love Antigua and Barbuda, my first island home. Here is the link
Thanks for reading
Skype: caribchakita
Twitter: bonairebliss
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- Anguilla Alert
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- By ann phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Mon, 4 Sep 2017 10:54:53 +0000
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Bon Dia
I just saw the latest updates and see there is a similar scenario as Luis back in 95. I was set to move back to Antigua and Luis hit. The village my then husband’s family is from did not have current or water for 2 months. The situation was quite serious.
I hope the vulnerable dolphins at the Discovery Program (AKA Dolphin Prison) at Blowing Point are not relocated to swimming pools as they were in the past.
Batten down the hatches, SXM, Saba, Statia, Anguilla…Keep us posted when time allows.
Annie
Skype: caribchakita
Twitter: bonairebliss
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- Irma
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- By ann phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2017 11:41:40 +0000
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Greetings
I am dating myself but Gilbert, Marilyn, Luis and a few other storms come to mind when I think about the potential for Irma. Hurricane preparedness has come so far from the 80’s when I first lived in Antigua.
It’s time to stock up now..get your plywood, board up slowly. Consider your animals and livestock. Hopefully, this will pass leaving all unscathed. But, it could be devastating…
I had a lovely staycation at Aventure B&B on Bonaire. So lovely. Take time for you, life is short…
Skype: caribchakita
Twitter: bonairebliss
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- Harvey
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- By ann phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Fri, 25 Aug 2017 11:21:11 +0000
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Wow, look at TS Harvey, ready to hit Texas. Rob from Crown Weather called it and the coastline of Texas is at risk for a serious weather event. I have a group of windsurfer client and friends in the Houston area who are hunkering down. My dear friend,
Jim, is in Houston visiting family. He was meant to head down to Bonaire tomorrow but we are doubtful United will fly. This is a storm to watch.
Here on Bonaire, the wind is non existent. The donkeys are searching for water all day, so I keep replenishing their water bin. The sun’s out and it’s a new day filled with gratitude. On tap today, gym time, a meeting at Tourism Corp. of Bonaire, work
on my Bonaire Wellness initiative and more Kombucha brewing. Am addicted to this stuff. Here is a photo of my brew
Skype: caribchakita
Twitter: bonairebliss
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- rainy drizzle and an eclipse
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- By ann phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Mon, 21 Aug 2017 17:29:04 +0000
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Bon Dia Bon Siman
My 12 year old neighbor and I were outside watching the sky. We anticipate the partial eclipse at 2:15 AST. Unfortunately, it’s rainy and cloudy. We have a little less than an hour so perhaps the sky will clear. For now, watching the eclipse coverage
on CNN is pretty darn cool.
On a sunnier day, Bachelor Beach, a minutes walk from my home
Skype: caribchakita
Twitter: bonairebliss
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- nada aki
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- By ann phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Sat, 19 Aug 2017 15:35:52 +0000
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Bon Dia
Nothing here to report. No wind, extremely muggy and no rain. The air is very still. I read the reports from SVD and BGI. Wow, incredible rain. We have a few more months to watch and be alert.
My daughter called from Cape Cod. The iconic Beachcomber in Wellfleet had a weather event. Due to over 8” of torrential rains, their dune was washed away along with a car. Incredible weather event on the south coast of MA, last night.
My new friend Kuma Movie came over to pick up some windsurf gear from me yesterday. He loved my outdoor shower and took a nice snap. I love my outdoor shower.
Cheers all
Be well
Annie on Bonaire, over and out
Skype: caribchakita
Twitter: bonairebliss
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- hurray rain
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- By ann phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Fri, 18 Aug 2017 11:36:56 +0000
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Good Morning,
A friend in Barbados wrote that it’s quite stormy and they lost current. Here on Bonaire, it’s been pouring rain for 10 minutes. Super excited for some rain for the donkeys and gardens. Watching east to see what transpires.
Stay well
Skype: caribchakita
Twitter: bonairebliss
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- watching east
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- By ann phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Thu, 17 Aug 2017 20:17:09 +0000
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Bon Tarde from Bonaire
The winds are light and every now and again, they squirrel into a slight wind reversal. Yesterday, the waves/swell on by Windsock Beach area was definitely building. Today, as yesterday, blistering hot.
Watching to the east, I hope the islands are spared any significant damage and as always, hoping for some lovely rain for all.
My gardener brought over some lovely guineps. My own tree never yields a crop thanks to my lovely parrots and birds. Guineps are THE funnest fruit ever.
Have a lovely day
Annie
Skype: caribchakita
Twitter: bonairebliss
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- Sunday Funday
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- By ann phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Mon, 14 Aug 2017 00:14:22 +0000
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Bon Noche,
The highlight of my weekend was watching the meteor showers last night. My friend and I started gazing around 9:30 but had no luck. I live near the airport plus have two outdoor LED auto lights so it was a bit hard to see anything. Around 1:30 AM, I woke
and went out again. This time I saw two long and bright beautiful streaks fly through the sky. It was magnificent.
Last Thur. we had a good dose of torrential rains. Since then, light winds and hot days. The feel like temp today was 98. I took the day for some solitude. My plan was to head over to Lac Cai, a popular Sunday spot I had frequented when I first moved
to Bonaire in 2003. It was really quiet today which was great. I saw lots of flamingos along the way.
Lots of weather happening, keep the faith. Praying for nice rains and gentle tropical weather. Globally, so much negativity prevails. Hopefully, weather news is more positive
Skype: caribchakita
Twitter: bonairebliss
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- Weather
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- By ann phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Fri, 4 Aug 2017 00:04:54 +0000
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Rainy day on Bonaire!! We needed it! I spoke to Rob at www.crownweather.com and
he shared, the present system will pass into the Bay of Campeche. Hoping for
safe passage for all !!
Annie
Sent from my iPhone
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- rain bliss
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- By ann phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Thu, 20 Jul 2017 01:05:00 +0000
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We had a blissful rain on Bonaire. It’s such a big deal to everyone on island when the rain comes. It’s so infrequent on our dry island. I used to live on Antigua where most had cisterns collecting rain under their gallery. I often wish I had one installed
when I built my house. I am one if the few that collects rain water from the roof to use to water the garden. Let’s see what the remainder of the tropical season reveals.
I am super excited to launch my new business venture, Spectrum Adventure Vacations. I am creating vacations for young and older adults on the spectrum. The emphasis is on Discover Diving. Bonaire’s pristine reefs are some of the healthiest in the Caribbean.
I am partnering with VIP Diving to create individual vacations for individuals and families.
Skype: caribchakita
Twitter: bonairebliss
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- Bonaire Update
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- By ann phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Thu, 6 Jul 2017 11:10:00 +0000
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Good Morning
I woke around 2:30 AM to a light drizzle. It lasted for about 30 minutes. Now, gentle breezes prevail. Yesterday was kite and windsurf heaven. Watching to the east and I see the track brings the newest system away from any direct hit. Hoping for some nice rain
bands for you all, over on that side of our ocean.
I am busy launching a new product for people on the Autism Spectrum. Take a peak.
Have a lovely day in paradise
Ann Phelan
Www.bonairecaribbean.com
Www.bonairebliss.com
Instagram: bonairecaribbean
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- Sunday News
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- By ann phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Sun, 2 Jul 2017 11:44:52 +0000
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Bon Dia Tur Hende
Good morning everyone
The humidity is quite high after some intermittent rain showers. The sky is grey and winds are light.
There seems to be a blog passing to our north creating this weather pattern. I wish we’d get another dumping of rain.
Lots of culture and events all weekend on Bonaire. The island is jam packed with dive tourists.
Have a lovely weekend, everyone. Take a peak at this cool video my VIP client sent me. Diver’s bliss on Bonaire
And this little guy has been visiting me lately
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- Weather Update
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- By ann phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Wed, 28 Jun 2017 15:52:13 +0000
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Bon Dia from Bonaire
I am waiting for the rain that the local weather forecasters and www.windguru.cz are predicting. The strong winds have dissipated and the sunny sky has turned cloudy. We need some rain. I desperately miss the rainy season.
Here is a photo from yesterday. It was a glorious beach day.
Ann Phelan
Www.bonairecaribbean.com
Www.bonairebliss.com
Twitter: bonairebliss
Instagram: bonairecaribbean
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- We need rain
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- By ann phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Wed, 28 Jun 2017 01:40:10 +0000
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Well, we definitely need some rain down here in Bonaire. The landscape is
parched. All of the foliage and vegetation in my yard really could use a good
drink of water. It looks like there might be some weather tomorrow afternoon
and Thursday so I will keep you all posted. It seems like there's some system
passing by Trinadad so it looks like a repeat of Bret!
Rest well!
Ann Phelan
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- Storm Update
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- By ann phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Wed, 21 Jun 2017 16:41:47 +0000
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Bonaire was spared significant storm damage. I have heard that a few roofs were
lost. In the Sorobon area, there was some damage to small structures but
otherwise the island seem to do OK. They were scattered power outages a little
bit of rain and quite a bit of wind.
Be well!
Www.bonairecaribbean.com
Sent from my iPhone
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- Oil spill
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- By Ann Phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Sat, 27 May 2017 16:38:27 -0400
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Bonaire's east coast has been littered with sticky tar thought to be from the
recent oil spill in Trinadad. Junior Rangers and STINAPA had a beach clean up
today.
Photo courtesy of Julia Martinus
Sent from my iPhone
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- wicked wind
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- By Ann Phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Fri, 05 May 2017 22:33:59 -0400
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Photo Courtesy of Jibe City
The winds are cranking still. My TX windsurf group left last week but boy, were they happy. They had blistered hands, tans and sunburns but most of all, happy windsurf memories. We had a bit of rain the 30th but nothing since. I am back to filling my cistern with government water for the irrigation system.
My friend and his wife just departed and left me with a few Lionfish filets. Such a tasty fish but oh so bony.
Not much else to report. Come on over to windsurf, it’s great.
Please reply to all as I utilize two email accounts
Skype: caribchakita Twitter: bonairebliss
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- Spring has Sprung
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- By Ann Phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Fri, 21 Apr 2017 05:42:05 -0400
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Bon Dia from Bonaire
It’s been a long time since I posted. We had lovely weather most of the late winter and spring with decent wind for the sailors, some good vis for the divers and rain, here and there. Our lovely Kirbahacha bushes are in bloom thanks to some heavy rain that descended earlier this week. Cruise ship season winds down as well.
I am gearing up for some yard work which keeps me happy. I am hoping our rainy spell continues a bit as it’s much nicer than the previous years long drought we experienced.
I love ready about the weather news of others in the neighboring islands. Keep up the weather chat.
Super excited for Wellness Week, April 30. The Ruiz Brothers (Four Agreements) are on island May 2-3. Take a peak if you are interested. I’d love to welcome my fellow Caribbean neighbors who follow the Toltec Wisdom.
Have a super day! —
Please reply to all as I utilize two email accounts
Skype: caribchakita Twitter: bonairebliss
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- rain sun fun
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- By Ann Phelan <ann at bonairecaribbean.com>
- Date: Sun, 08 Jan 2017 17:34:39 -0500
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Phew, the holidays are over. What a complete whirlwind time. My clean eating went down hill as I enjoyed dining at a new Turkish hotspot as well as my fav Italian spot, Capriccio’s. I also love Blue Garden for the best Caiparinha. As a Social Concierge, I do have to try these new hot spots so I am sure to refer my guests to the best.
For the past two months, rains have been intermittent. Over Christmas, we had a few full days of showers. The rains held back for New Years Eve and as usual, the island was treated to the most amazing fireworks displays, island wide.
The trades are blowing and tourists are flocking to the sea for above and below water adventure. I love my job so much. I head into my 30th year as a travel professional.
—
Please reply to all as I utilize two email accounts
Skype: caribchakita Twitter: bonairebliss
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