Car Rental BonaireWhen traveling, I like to have a car rental, Bonaire has so many sights to see so make sure when you begin to make plans to visit the island of Bonaire, that a car rental in your "must have" list. With all the activities you have planned, such as diving that require carrying equipment that gets heavy, you will want to have a vehicle at your disposal. If you plan on doing excursions like shore diving, Washington-Slagbaai National Park, bike riding, bird watching, to name only a few, you won’t want to miss a single thing and having a car rental is the best way to get around Bonaire. With a variety of vehicles to choose from, a four wheel drive vehicle is recommended if you plan to dive. The island can be rugged in some spots (it's not very developed like many vacation spots) and due to the location of some of the most well known spots, many are only accessible by renting a four wheel drive vehicle. If you plan to use the car rental for site seeing, there are a number of rental companies located on the island will be able to provide any number of sedans or SUV’s needed. Of course, a truck or SUV should be considered for any activities that require transporting of items, i.e. a bicycle, scuba tanks.
Important InformationBonaire offers a variety of choices for car rental selections; however, you must have a valid driver’ license and be at least 21-25 years of age. You will also be required to secure the vehicle with a credit card. Each company is different and the type of vehicle rented can be restricted by age. It's not really any different than if you were renting a car at home. Upon rental, your car rental agency will provide a copy of traffic signs located on the island. These are important to know if your going to be driving here, and driving is done on the right side, just as in the U.S., unlike some Caribbean islands who drive on the left. You should also be provided a map of the island. It is a good idea to learn the different areas of the island so you can plan your excursions. While tour operators are available for any activity on Bonaire, having your own transportation is a wise decision. (at least I think so!) With a weekly cost between $150-400 per week depending on the vehicle, you can find an economic car rental on the island and have the freedom to complete activities on your own time.
Driving InformationWhile having the freedom a car rental on Bonaire allows you, being a responsible and safe driver is an important fact. With this in mind, there are important facts to know about car rentals in Bonaire. Most cars or trucks are manual transmission.
Vehicles are not usually covered under your standard auto policy or credit card, so the purchase of insurance will need to be considered. The daily prices average $10-20.
Most auto signs are in International symbols.
You should review your car rental policy for exclusions. Some areas are prohibited in any vehicle except by truck or four wheel drive.
Most car rental agencies require you to have had a driver’s license for at least two years. Most insurance purchased does not include theft of items from the vehicle. If you want to make sure you have all these protections talk to your car rental agent about it.
The Car Rental AgenciesThe island of Bonaire provides a list of recommended agencies. In addition, the island also offers most recognized facilities as well. While rules and prices will vary from company to company, so it is always a good idea to check prices and policies of more than one prior to making your choice.
AB Car Rental BonaireAB is one of the most well known companies for a car rental on the island. They have more than 20 years experience in renting cars. Their Flamingo (BON) Airport location makes it easy for you to get your rental vehicle. You can call ahead for reservations and they also have pick up and leave off service. Their fleet has 11 different vehicle choices and includes: 4 wheel drive vehicles Mazda double cab trucks Hyundai SUV's, Kia Vans and Mitsubishi Cars with automatic transmission Phone: +599 717 8980
Fax: +599 717 3880
info@abcarrental.com
AvisWe all know Avis. They are a world wide company and they offer unlimited mileage. Bonaire has an Avis counter right at Flamingo (BON) Airport. Avis offers 5 vehicle types to choose from including a Daihatsu Jeep with an automatic transmission Tel. +(599-717) 5795,
Fax. +(599-717) 5793
avis@bonairelive.com
BenchoThis family owned and operated car rental agency has been on Bonaire for 10 years. They, like some of the others, have pick up and leave off service. There is not charge for baby seats or for extra drivers. Bencho offers 5 different vehicle groups including the desired 4 wheel drive vehicles. It also offers a Ford Focus with an automatic transmission. Kaya Industria #38,
Telephone: +(599) 717-7185
infoben@benchocarrentals.com
BudgetBudget is another world wide rental agency for vehicles. They have a free pick up service and you can call ahead for reservations. They do charge a fee for baby seats. There is also a requirement that drivers have had licenses for more than one year. I guess 5 vehicle choices is the standard on the island, because Budget has 5 kinds of vehicles too. That includes the 4 wheel drive vehicles and a Toyota Tercel or Yaris with an automatic transmission. Budget Rent a Car Bonaire
Kaya Industria 10 (Lisa Carwash)
phone: (599) 717-4700 fax: (599) 717-3325
reservations@budgetbonaire.com
So make the most of your time spent on Bonaire, rent a car and see even the furthest reaches of the island. I am sure its a decision you won't regret
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