Scoring Island Hospitality: Inside the Bonaire Friends Review Committee
When a moment of kindness turns your trip into something unforgettable, you want to honor it the right way. That’s exactly what the Bonaire Friends Review Committee helps you do—by fairly scoring visitor nominations and recognizing locals who embody the island’s warm, welcoming spirit. In this guide, you’ll learn how the Bonaire Friends Review Committee evaluates entries, what “story uniqueness” and “local passion” look like in practice, and how to craft a standout nomination that gives your Bonaire Friend the best chance to win.
What Is Bonaire Friends?
Bonaire Friends is an island-wide celebration of the people who make Bonaire special. Visitors are invited to submit a written or video story about a local who enhanced their trip—whether by sharing insider tips, helping them discover a new experience, or lending a thoughtful hand when it mattered most.
- Winners receive a US$250 prize (via bank transfer).
- All permanent residents of Bonaire are eligible to win.
- Visitors can submit through the official page: https://bonaireisland.com/bonaire-friends/
Beyond recognition, the program uplifts the island’s culture of hospitality and forges lasting connections between visitors and the community. You can also discover more local perspectives on Bonaire’s culture and nature by exploring the island’s Blog.
How the Bonaire Friends Review Committee Scores Nominations
The evaluation process is designed to be clear and consistent.
The monthly short-list
- Each month, Tourism Corporation Bonaire (TCB) short-lists the top 3–5 visitor stories.
- The Bonaire Friends Review Committee then scores those entries and selects that month’s winner.
The two scoring criteria
Entries are judged on:
- Story uniqueness
- Passion demonstrated by the local person featured
Here’s what those criteria mean in practice:
| Criterion | What it means in your nomination |
|---|---|
| Story uniqueness | A specific, memorable encounter that stands apart—details, context, and outcomes that show why this moment could only have happened on Bonaire and with this person. |
| Local passion | Clear evidence of enthusiasm, care, and commitment from the local—sharing knowledge, going the extra mile, and creating a positive, lasting impact on your visit. |
Why these criteria matter
- Unique stories highlight the authentic ways hospitality shines across the island—from spontaneous tips to above-and-beyond service.
- Demonstrated passion shows how locals actively shape the visitor experience with warmth, knowledge, and pride in their community.
What Makes a Standout Nomination
You don’t need to be a professional writer. Focus on clarity, specificity, and heart.
Tell a focused, detailed story
- Who helped you, and where did you meet?
- What exactly happened—step by step?
- Why was it meaningful to you?
- What changed because of this person’s actions?
Tip: Include place names, timing, and small but telling details. These add authenticity and help the committee understand the full context.
Show the local’s passion through actions
- Did they anticipate your needs or follow up later?
- Did they share local knowledge—like cultural insights, nature etiquette, or hard-to-find tips?
- Did they display patience, creativity, or resourcefulness?
Add supportive visuals (optional but powerful)
- You can upload a photo or video with your story (maximum file size: 15MB).
- Choose media that reinforces your narrative (for example, a quick clip from the tour, a snapshot of the helpful moment, or the location where it happened).
Keep it authentic and respectful
- Use your own words—honest, direct, and specific.
- Focus on the person’s impact rather than generic praise.
- Avoid adding personal data about others that isn’t needed for the story.
Do’s and Don’ts
- Do: Name the local person and their role (if applicable).
- Do: Explain what made this experience different from a typical interaction.
- Do: Share how the moment made you feel and what you’ll remember.
- Don’t: Exaggerate or include unrelated details.
- Don’t: Copy other stories or use hearsay.
Step-by-Step: How to Nominate Your Bonaire Friend
Confirm you’re eligible
- Nominations are open to visitors aged 18 or older.
Go to the official page
- Submit at: https://bonaireisland.com/bonaire-friends/
Complete the form
- Share your story in text or video.
- Optionally upload a photo or video (max 15MB).
- You can opt in to receive marketing emails from Tourism Corporation Bonaire.
Acknowledge key policies
- Confirm you’ve read and understand the Privacy Policy and Bonaire Friends Rules.
Submit and watch for updates
- TCB short-lists top entries each month; the Bonaire Friends Review Committee selects that month’s winner.
Prize and claiming details
- The highlighted Bonaire Friend receives US$250 via bank transfer.
- Winners must present valid ID to claim the prize and have up to three months after announcement to do so.
- All permanent residents of Bonaire are eligible to win.
Why These Criteria Reflect Bonaire’s Values
Bonaire’s hospitality thrives on genuine, person-to-person moments—locals who share their knowledge, care for visitors, and protect the natural and cultural richness of the island. By elevating stories that are both unique and passion-filled, the Bonaire Friends Review Committee helps spotlight the people who embody the island’s welcoming character and set a standard for meaningful, sustainable visitor experiences.
If you’re interested in broader community initiatives and stewardship, consider exploring island conservation efforts featured across the site’s content. These shared values of care and connection underpin the kind of hospitality the program honors.
Recent Highlights: Bonaire Friends in Action
These recognized stories capture how everyday moments become lifelong memories:
- Ronald Bernabela — Honored for exceptional service and dedication to tourism. With decades of experience (including as a taxi driver since 1997), he’s known for private tours, thoughtful recommendations, and exceeding visitor expectations.
- Quincy Booi — Recognized for warm, attentive service as a waiter at Rum Runners. His quick, caring response to a guest’s sunburn (personally preparing fresh aloe vera and following up) turned a small act into a lasting memory.
- Pastor Marc, Dianne Pourier, and Rene Sedney — Highlighted for compassionate support during a difficult time, reflecting the island’s empathy and strong sense of community.
These stories illustrate both uniqueness and passion—the very qualities the committee looks for each month.
Quick Answers (Great for Featured Snippets)
How are Bonaire Friends submissions judged?
- TCB short-lists the top 3–5 stories each month. The Bonaire Friends Review Committee scores them for story uniqueness and local passion to select a winner.
How often is a winner selected?
- Monthly.
What does the winner receive?
- The highlighted Bonaire Friend is awarded US$250 (via bank transfer).
Who can nominate and who can win?
- Visitors aged 18+ can submit. All permanent residents of Bonaire are eligible to win.
Where do I submit?
- At the official page: https://bonaireisland.com/bonaire-friends/
Practical Tips to Strengthen Your Nomination
Use this checklist before you hit submit:
- [ ] I clearly identified the local person and, if applicable, their role or workplace.
- [ ] My story includes concrete details (where we met, what happened, and when).
- [ ] I explained what made this encounter different or unexpected.
- [ ] I highlighted how the local’s actions showed passion and care.
- [ ] I attached a photo or short video (optional, up to 15MB) that supports the story.
- [ ] I kept my tone authentic, respectful, and focused on impact.
For Local Businesses: Help Spread the Word
If you’re a Bonaire business, you can help guests recognize outstanding locals by promoting the program in your channels. The asset toolkit—including a promotional poster and nomination card—is available on the Bonaire Friends page under “Download the asset toolkit.” Add it to your website, booking confirmations, newsletters, or on-site signage to invite thoughtful nominations.
For more island stories and planning ideas, you can also point guests to the Blog.
Conclusion: Share Your Story, Celebrate a Bonaire Friend
Great hospitality deserves to be seen. Now that you know how the Bonaire Friends Review Committee scores entries, you’re ready to submit a clear, compelling story that spotlights a local who made your trip extraordinary.
- Nominate your Bonaire Friend today: https://bonaireisland.com/bonaire-friends/
- Businesses: find the “Download the asset toolkit” link on the same page to promote nominations.
Your story could be the next to celebrate the best part of Bonaire—the people.