“It was a privilege to present our vision for Bonaire’s tourism to this important delegation,” said Angel. “These exchanges are important to ensure that Bonaire’s story, needs, and opportunities are clearly represented in The Hague. We look forward to strengthening cooperation for the benefit of our people, our nature, and our shared future.”

Evelain holds the distinction of being the very first employee hired by TCB, beginning her journey on October 1st, 1991. Over the decades, she became integral to TCB’s growth and evolution, wearing many hats and contributing to numerous aspects of Bonaire’s tourism development.

Throughout the years, Evelain served multiple roles, including providing information to countless visitors who stopped by the office. She also played a critical part behind the scenes by inputting ED card data into the system. Evelain was known for her warm hospitality. She often accompanied international press and influencers on island tours, showcasing Bonaire’s unique beauty and culture. Additionally, she was actively involved in the cruise tourism sector, helping to shape the visitor experience for thousands of cruise passengers over the years. Evelain can be seen as the mother figure of TCB.

Elesiër Angel, CEO of TCB, thanked Evelain for all her years of working at TCB and mentioned that Evelain is a person who is always ready to help in all areas. Furthermore, she said, “We will all miss you, but now is the time for you to enjoy your well-deserved retirement.”

The entire TCB team congratulates Evelain on reaching this significant milestone. We thank her for her years of service, dedication, and friendship. We wish her a joyful, relaxing, and well-deserved retirement filled with happiness and new adventures.

TCB in partnership with the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA), has launched the 2025 FCCA Essay & Poster Competitions for Bonaire students. The initiative encourages creativity, environmental awareness, and critical thinking.

Open to students aged 16 and under, the competition includes four categories: Junior and Senior divisions for both essays and posters. Competition Themes:

• Essay Theme: “If I were a cruise passenger, what would I like to see or do in my country?”
• Poster Theme: “How to Protect the Marine Environment from Land-Based Activities”

Three lucky winners from Bonaire will receive prizes such as laptops and smartphones, and be recognized at the Seatrade 2026 conference. Entry forms and guidelines are available from TCB, with submission details to be announced soon. For inquiries, contact marketing@bonaireisland.com.

These are Leslie Schwartz and Walt Brodrick, who have been visiting Bonaire for 10 consecutive years. Jozef Priller received the highest award for his 30 years of visiting Bonaire.

“We come to Bonaire every year with our diving group from the United States, and we are very impressed by the crystal-clear sea that surrounds Bonaire. The people of Bonaire excel in friendliness, and every time we enjoy the excellent gastronomy of Bonaire,” according to our new ambassadors.

The honoring ceremony of Leslie Schwartz and Walt Brodrick took place at the Sand Dollar Condominiums, and that of Jozef Priller at the Plaza Resort Bonaire. Helen Mercera of TCB performed both ceremonies.