Tourism Corporation Bonaire (TCB) together with 15 island partners were present at the Duikvaker diving fair in Houten, in the Netherlands, on February 3rd and 4th, 2024.
This year, the new “It’s in our nature” Bonaire pavilion look and feel shined throughout the 2-day fair. The TCB booth was represented by Marjolein Oleana – Business Manager & Europe Liaison, and Annette Emerenciana – Marketing PR & Project Coordinator. This year’s Bonaire pavilion partners included AB-Dive, Captain Don’s Habitat, Chogogo Beach & Dive Resort, Dive Friends Bonaire, FPA Sports Bonaire, Grand Windsock Bonaire, Oasis Guesthouse Bonaire, Plaza Beach & Dive Resort, Scuba Do Bonaire, Scuba Elite Bonaire, The Hut Bonaire, VIP Diving, Wanderlust Dive Center, and Wannadive Bonaire. Outside the Bonaire pavilion, Buddy Dive Resort was also present with its own booth.
On February 3rd, the Bonaire pavilion organized a happy hour and a network event in which different exhibitors, visitors of the fair and media partners attended. The happy hour and networking event provided a unique opportunity for Bonaire to expend its visibility to co-exhibitors and visitors while connecting with various dive schools, resorts and car rental companies. A variety of delicious local snacks made by Cedric Soleana, were served, highlighting Bonaire’s culinary delights. As part of the gastronomy experience, visitors had the opportunity to taste and enjoy delicious fresh roasted coffee from Bonaire, sponsored by Bonchi Boneiru, and the island’s local spirits, Rom Rincon and Cadushy liquor, sponsored by The Cadushy Distillery.
During the networking event, the TCB team recognized Patrick van Brienen, the head organizer of Duikvaker fair as Bonaire Ambassador, for his valuable support in the diving industry for the island of Bonaire.
On February 4th, the Bonaire pavilion closed the fair with a final happy hour with Bonairian students Alexander Tromp, Jeadan Crestian and Sabine Schleper dressed in traditional folkloric attire and serving a variety of delicious local snacks.
The Duikvaker fair attracted a total of 9.500 visitors, many who are already familiar with the island and its magnificent underwater experience. Others have heard of Bonaire and were looking forward to planning a visit to the island soon.
By participating at holiday and dive fairs in the Netherlands and Europe, TCB hopes to increase the island’s visibility and presence in the key Dutch and Belgium markets.
The next Duikvaker fair will take place on February 1st and 2nd, 2025, in Houten, in the Netherlands.
