Technology on Bonaire
While Bonaire is a small island, we have a large number of modern-day amenities, including a modern telephone system, several Internet service providers, cable TV, terrestrial digital TV, and a number of radio stations.
Electricity
Bonaire, Curacao, and Jamaica have two things in common. The first is that they are all located in the Caribbean. The second is that they share the same electrical current with the same power characteristics. The default power from an electrical outlet here on Bonaire is 127 Volts AC at 50 Cycles (or Hertz or Hz). This doesn’t really match either the power requirements of most European appliances (220V, 50Hz) or American appliances (110V, 60Hz). Both European standard and U.S. standard outlet connections are visible in just about all Bonairean structures, it’s not always clear what voltage the outlet is running at, so it’s important to check this with whoever operates the house, hotel, apartment, etc. that you’ll be staying in. Additionally, some properties do not have both, so double-check with your accommodation.
Electrical Outlets
Some resorts may have transformers available for rent for your more sensitive plug-in appliances, such as battery chargers. Such transformers can also be bought in local stores such as Kooymans or Playa Trading for between $50 and $100.
Some things may be plugged into a 127V socket directly without a transformer, as long as you understand that some U.S. voltage-specific devices may run warm, and may burn out if left plugged in for a long time. Note that many notebook computers already have universal power supplies and should work fine plugged into any outlet (check with your manufacturer or your notebook power supply for details).
However, it is also said that Bonaire is occasionally “generous” with its power, and surges and brownouts are not uncommon. If you plug anything electronically delicate into a wall outlet, it might not be a bad idea to have a small surge protector in between. These are available at most consumer electronics stores.
Internet Access
The Internet first made it via dial-up to Bonaire in 1997, and in the last decades, has blossomed into ADSL, Cable, and HDSL wireless services. Speeds are not nearly as high as in the U.S. or Europe, but they are still very workable for the average user.
ADSL is available through Telbo, the island’s telephone company, and you can contact Flamingo TV for “Broadband” Cable Internet. Other connections are also available locally. In some cases, you can be set up for short-term usage or monthly and yearly plans.
Additionally, many resorts and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi while you are a customer. Check with your hotel or resort to see what they offer.
| Internet Service Providers |
|---|
| Digicel (cellular technology) +599 717-4400 |
| Flamingo TV (cable) +599 717-8512 |
| Telbo +599 715-7000 |
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