This delightful, intimate Dutch island of Bonaire is an ideal getaway for people in pursuit of peace and nature, especially the peace and nature to be found below the surface of calm waters that give divers a dependable visibility of 100 feet (30m).

Bonaire is one of the world's premiere scuba-diving destinations. There are more than 80 marked sites attracting divers from all over the world.

The island's reefs are part of the Bonaire Marine Park and there are tough laws to conserve all sea life, the coral and fish in the offshore waters. Further out, the sea is rich in bonefish, tarpon, permit, snook and marlin – these can be fished.

There are 350 miles (560Km) of nature trails to be explored.

Kralendijk
Fewer than 2000 people live in Kralendijk and the main street is a stone's throw end to end. Follow the recommended walking tour and you will wind your through the town's modest attractions.

Flamingo Sanctuary
The vast salt pans at the island's southern end are home to one of the largest flamingo breeding grounds in the western hemisphere. The Flamingos flock 10,000 at a time to the sanctuary 135 acres.

Washington-Slaagbai National Park
Created out of the grounds of two former plantations on the northwestern part of the island, the park contains 13,500 acres of scrub covered hills, lakes, hiking trails and 100 avian species.

Playa Slagbaai on the western coast has bright yellow 19 th century buildings and good swimming.

Klein Bonaire
This uninhabited islet is a short boat ride from Kralendijk. Surrounded by reefs, it is a popular spot for picnicking and diving.