The Bonaire Hotel and Tourism Association (BONHATA) held its annual general meeting on November 1 st at Delfins Beach Resort and welcomed multiple new companies to its network of over 120 members.
The annual event was a moment for members to reflect on shared accomplishments,
acknowledge the challenges faced by the tourism sector on Bonaire, and look ahead at opportunities for the industry to flourish.
During her welcome speech, BONHATA CEO Veroesjka de Windt emphasized the importance of sector collaboration: ‘Our members are not just a mix of players in the tourism industry, they are a powerful collective voice that propels Bonaire towards a more prosperous future’. By bundling support, the association is able to build effective
relationships with key stakeholders on Bonaire–making it possible to find common ground and come up with solutions that balance societal, environmental, and economic development.
The evening also highlighted key advocacy efforts led by BONHATA, addressing issues that affect the island’s tourism industry.
Airlift Challenge
The ratio of airlift to room inventory continues to be an important challenge for the island. ‘Striking a balance between these two variables is critical for the prosperity of the tourism industry in Bonaire. If we do not address this issue, it can lead to a deflationary spiral in our sector and indirectly impact the rest of the island economy’, said Luite Berkenbosch–president of the board BONHATA. In 2023 the association contributed greatly to solving this challenge by contributing over 200 thousand dollars to the United airlift guarantee, which has resulted in extra flights from New Jersey to Bonaire.
Central Dialogue
BONHATA represents the interests of the tourism sector as a member of the Central Dialogue, a consultative body of employers, unions, local government, and Chamber of
Commerce. One of the key developments was the adjustment of the statutory minimum wage, along with the establishment of a social minimum for residents of Bonaire. BONHATA, along with Business Federation Bonaire have sought to represent the sector’s view on the matter and advocate for resources to be directed to employers to accommodate the drastic changes.
Stakeholder Involvement
To get ahead of future issues, BONHATA proactively advocates for the involvement of
relevant stakeholders in the process of policy formulation. Effective policies can only be achieved when there is proper input from all sides, and 2023 was a critical year in which
BONHATA held many sessions with stakeholders such as STINAPA, TCB, Central Dialogue, Bonaire’s executive council, and many other organizations on the island. During the annual meeting, members were able to give input on topics they would like to see addressed in the coming year.
Looking ahead, the association now counts on the support of Arnd Chirino and Omar el Hage as two new members of its staff. Their arrival marks a new chapter for BONHATA and coincides with a healthy addition of new members to the association. The board of BONHATA also saw some changes in 2023 with the addition of Delfins Beach Resort Bonaire, represented by Chris Opgenoort; and Vincent van der Valk joining the board to represent the seat held by Van der Valk Plaza Beach & Dive Resort Bonaire. Lastly, Tom Peeters stepped down as a valued board member representing VANEPS Bonaire. BONHATA extends its gratitude to Tom Peeters for his many years of service and dedication.
The Bonaire Hotel and Tourism Association (BONHATA) is recognized by the National and island Governments and the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA) as the official hotel and tourism association of Bonaire. Founded in 1980, BONHATA has been at the forefront of the island’s tourism industry for four decades. For more information, please email info@bonhata.org.
