After visiting bonaire last summer the girlfriend and I fell in love with the island. We are already planning our trip back in the summer of 08, and are looking ahead to 09 when we would like to spend at least a month there. we are both teachers and have our entire summers off. That being said we are both teachers and economics are at the forefront. We are looking for someplace economical to stay that puts us in a good central location for diving. I would imagine finding something outside of town might be better for us as far as money goes, but is it a pain to get tanks? Does someplace like Buddies that has the drive through tank pickup offer packages for people not staying with the resort, or is there a resort that offers something like this? Also any tips from people who have done something similar on areas to save money?

Welcome to BoanireTalk Greg.

Suggest contacting Debbie & Greg Babcock. They own Lighthouse Beach #13 where we stayed for a month this past October (our 17th trip to Bonaire, our first - but not last - stay at LBR-13). Their website is http://www.bonairevilla.com/. This place is a 2-bedroom townhouse with lots of room. Even though it was just my wife and me for two weeks (plus her sister and our daughter for a week each), it was as much space as you ever need at a very affordable rate.

We got our tanks (both air and nitrox after our nitrox certification ) through Dive Friends at Port Bonaire. Quite convenient to LBR, considering you usually travel past them at least once a day so with a little forethought, you always have tanks). Debbie & Greg can provide more info, and were a real pleasure to work with.

Enjoy your trip, wherever you end up.

Since our first visit to Bonaire in 1999, we've stayed for between 4-6 weeks each winter -- and found, and love, Bonaire Town Homes. It's not on the water (that really ups the prices!), but is very central and convenient.

The local owners (Benny & Ester) are delightful, totally helpful people who become friends with all their guests -- their house is right next to their 3 rental bungalows.

Prices are VERY reasonable (I understand the need for economy), the property is very clean, well designed, comfortable and fully-equipped. We love it. Will be there in about 3 weeks time again - our tenth stay there! Can't recommend it highly enough!
www.bonairetownhomes.com

Bert at Dive Inn will deliver tanks and I am sure he would do you a good deal for long term diving, as will some other places.

I'm working with Dive Inn (via Ann Phelan - luv ya Annie!). They have some great deals for long term diving. You can contact Ann at ann@bonairecaribbean.com She is a travel agent who lives on island and is a great resource!

I second Josie's recommendation..love BonaireTown Homes and Benny & Esther..the apartments are comfortable and sweet....very close to everything and affordable...good luck and have fun diving