Vacation Rentals by Owner

Home Away From Home

Guest: Emily (Barrie, Ontario, Canada)
Date of Stay: 05/05/12 Review Submitted: 05/25/12

This was our second stay at Oceanscape Bonaire and what a fantastic time we had - again! The first time we visitited Bonaire we decided to do Discover Scuba Diving with Dive Friends and loved it so much that we came home and got certified in the balmy 44 degree waters of Georgian Bay, Ontario. Since then we have completed our Advanced and Nitrox certification so this trip was a diving trip for us. When we arrived in Bonaire there was someone at the airport to meet us and take us to pick up our rental truck then we drove back to Port Bonaire. The next day we woke up early and stocked our fridge from the Warehouse grocery store - everything you need! Having the Dive Friends shop on the property was great - and so easy! Just load up your tanks and go. Jamal and staff there were so friendly and always came to talk to us about what sites to visit and where we had been the previous day. The condo itself truly feels like home away from home! It is SO comfortable with a great kitchen, comfortable bed and all the ameneties you could ever want/need. Our favourite part of the day whas returning from a full day of diving and sitting on our private balcony overlooking the ocean. This is when we would indulge in shrimp, delicious local cheese and a cold glass of wine. The sunsets were unbelievable! We love cooking so we only ate out twice. We drove to the southern end of the island to go to Jibe City for our favourite seafood salad. If you are looking for serious chill time on the water, this is the spot. Friendly staff, laid back, cold beer and delicious food. We wondered in in our wetsuits and were almost overdressed! Norca's Deli Cafe in town is one of our favourites and that is because of Norca herself. She is such a great lady and always has something daring for my husband to try - this time it was iguanna stew. He loved it! We struggle with travelling somewhere different but we love Bonaire and Oceancape because it is so easy there - especially as divers! You can dive when you want, as much as you want. The Port Bonaire complex is relatively small and quiet and the few people that you do run into are very friendly. There was always a chat by the water about what people had spotted that day. One of the best dives we did was right off the ladder in front of the condo. Thank you Connie for being such a great hostess once again. You are so helpful and provide so much information. Book us in for 2013!!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Great Condo

Guest: Carol P. (Philadelphia)
Date of Stay: 04/14/12 Review Submitted: 05/01/12

Not only was this vacation condo everything it was described as - it was lovely! The photos were accurate, the property was very clean and well-maintained. The owners provided detailed descriptions for the operation of the appliances, and condo rules as well as very helpful information on snorkeling sites, grocery stores, dining recommendations, and more. This was our 4th visit to Bonaire, but first stay at Oceanscape, and we learned new information! What could not be described in print or photo was the lovely deck - we spent much of our time at the condo on this deck with its lovely expansive view, constant trade breezes, and interesting small boat passings. The property is immaculate, has lovely gardens, and the pool was wonderful. The airport was not an issue as the runway is situated in a different direction. One of the best snorkeling spots on the island is directly across from the condo with a stair entry - doesn't get much better than that!! We stayed 2 heavenly weeks, snorkeled 2 different sites every day. I cooked in (like to cook and grocery shopping was fun here!) so we only ate out once - restaurant 'At Sea' which was just terrific if a little pricey. The property manager was always available and very helpful. The owners provide a cell phone and internet for use during your stay!! We used AB car rental and were very pleased with their service. We will definitely be back to this lovely condo in Port Bonaire.

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Great vacation condo

Guest: Carol P. (Philadelphia)
Date of Stay: 04/14/12 Review Submitted: 05/01/12

Not only was this vacation condo everything it was described as - it was lovely! The photos were accurate, the property was very clean and well-maintained. The owners provided detailed descriptions for the operation of the appliances, and condo rules as well as very helpful information on snorkeling sites, grocery stores, dining recommendations, and more. This was our 4th visit to Bonaire, but first stay at Oceanscape, and we learned new information! What could not be described in print or photo was the lovely deck - we spent much of our time at the condo on this deck with its lovely expansive view, constant trade breezes, and interesting small boat passings. The property is immaculate, has lovely gardens, and the pool was wonderful. The airport was not an issue as the runway is situated in a different direction. One of the best snorkeling spots on the island is directly across from the condo with a stair entry - doesn't get much better than that!! We stayed 2 heavenly weeks, snorkeled 2 different sites every day. I cooked in (like to cook and grocery shopping was fun here!) so we only ate out once - restaurant 'At Sea' which was just terrific if a little pricey. The property manager was always available and very helpful. The owners provide a cell phone and internet for use during your stay!! We used AB car rental and were very pleased with their service. We will definitely be back to this lovely condo in Port Bonaire.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway.

Bonaire Dreamers

Guest: Linda (Cleveland TN USA)
Date of Stay: 03/10/12 Review Submitted: 04/04/12

We have been going to Bonaire for 10 years now and so glad we found this condo. Love the property and have recommeded it to several friends and family who now call it their vacation home. Headed back again in September.

Recommended for:Tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Ocean Scape

Guest: Barb (Mass. USA)
Date of Stay: 01/07/12 Review Submitted: 02/07/12

Wonderful condo. Beautiful views and easy entry to sea. Rainbows almost every day. Everything in kitchen available. Will return. We are divers and did dives right from property.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway.

Great condo, super location

Guest: Mary G. (Mentor, OH)
Date of Stay: 12/03/11 Review Submitted: 12/13/11

We were delighted that Mark had the condo ready by 11:15 A.M., especially since the rain hampered most outdoor activities on Sat. & Sun. Still managed to snorkel every day though, with some of the best just steps away from the condo. The unit is extremely well maintained--spotlessly clean, and with all the amenities listed. Bed was very comfortable; Internet service quick and reliable; safe in bedroom closet large enough to hold our netbook and assorted other stuff. The kitchen is super well equipped, allowing us to cook most of our meals. It was great having spices and some condiments available. We occasionally heard flights departing or arriving, but nothing that was bothersome. It worked out great being so close to the airport, as we returned the rental car Friday night to avoid Sat. A.M. lines, then just walked across the street to check in for our flight on Sat. Windsock & 18 Palms both had nice snorkeling and we tried many other sites around the island as well. Best by far though was Klein Bonaire--we took a water taxi (Kontiki di amor) with Captain Henk. He first took us to a spot to drop off our stuff (towels, water, snacks), then dropped us off down the coast so we could drift snorkel back to where the stuff was. He then came back to pick us up there about 2-1/2 hours later, which worked out perfectly. LOVED dinner at At Sea--right up there with the best meals we've eaten out. Thought the prices were quite reasonable considering the quality of the food, the little extras they throw in, and the superb service. Also enjoyed ribs at The Ribs Factory and fresh catch of the day at City Cafe. Overall, we were very happy with the condo and with all of Connie's in-depth information and suggestions. She is very responsive to questions, and goes out of her way to make sure everything goes smoothly. We would definitely stay here again if we return to Bonaire.

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Oceanscape Is A Perfect Getaway

Guest: Ken & Carol (Loudon, TN)
Date of Stay: 08/13/11 Review Submitted: 08/28/11

We just returned after a two week stay at Oceanscape. It was a great vacation and the facilities met all our expectations. The Oceanscape condo is a one bedroom unit in a small condo complex across from the airport. The proximity to the airport was not a problem. The condo is positioned so that runway noise is barely noticeable. There are very few large planes that land in Bonaire and these are the only ones that you can hear even slightly. The smaller planes can not be heard at all. The condo is well kept with everything that you need for your stay. The location of the condo provides one of the best views on the island. We enjoyed sitting on the balcony that overlooks the bay and the island of Klein. The condo is at the mouth of the marina and this adds to the interest. The dive boats come and go past the condo. Not too busy but it interesting to watch the boat traffic. We were entertained every day by the pelicans that fed right off the front of the condo. They would glide around until they spotted something and dive for fish. Quite entertaining. We were in Bonaire for the diving and were not disappointed. We did mostly shore dives with a couple of boat dives mixed in. Dive Friends has a shop at the other end of the condo complex and we worked through them. They were friendly and took care of us very well. The shore dive sites to the south of the island are close to the condo. We would sometimes do a dive and return to the condo for a surface interval before doing a second dive. Windsock and Bachelor's Beach are two very easy dive sites that are close to the condo. We did these sites a couple of times for a second dive because they were so close and easy. We ate in the condo for many of our meals and mixed in some restaurant meals. We had dinner at Chibi Chibi's a couple of times. This is a nice place on the water. The food was good. The bar area at Buddies and Rum Runners was a good place to go to meet people and have a quick meal. Connie is the best owner that we have worked with. She is professional and responsive to any request. I would not hestiate to recommend Oceanscape to anyone looking for a one bedroom condo. You will not be disappointed.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers.

Paradise... FOUND!

Guest: flyann (Mississippi)
Date of Stay: 05/28/11 Review Submitted: 06/06/11

Everything was exactly as described. We found the condo and its furnishings perfect. Connie is a fantastic owner to work with. Her detailed instructions were a source of comfort in a foreign land. When I booked, the proximity of the airport was a (noise) concern for me. However, the only plane that disturbed our sleep was the big early Saturday morning one. The other smaller ones are barely noticeable with the A/C running. The snorkeling at Windsock, just through the condo property gate, was fabulous. We saw all of the critters mentioned in an earlier review PLUS a manta ray. How totally cool.

Recommended for:Romantic getaway

Piece of Paradise!!

Guest: Emily (Barrie, Ontario, Canada)
Date of Stay: 02/19/11 Review Submitted: 02/27/11

We are back home now after being in Bonaire and staying at Oceanscape for a week...and what a week it was! Best trip we have been on so far! The condo unit was perfect with everything you could need. We love to cook and absolutely everything is provided...even spices! We ventured off to the Warehouse supermarket our first morning there and filled the kitchen at a reasonable price. We were worried that things might be expensive since everything is imported. We found some amazing tasting shrimp in the meat section and ended up having them with lovely cheeses on our private deck every late afternoon with a cold beer. The snorkeling right off the condo is some of the best we did there. We were so excited about seeing all the divers that we signed up and completed the Discover Scuba Diving with Dive Friends and then did another additional dive. We are defintely going to get certified back at home! We toured all around the island and loved Jibe City at Sorobon beach and all the wind surfers and the fact that you can walk out in the water FOREVER! This is where you find that clear turqois water you see in travel mags! Make sure you try the seafood salad at Jibe! We also did some snorkeling here and the coral is unbelievable! We toured up to the other end of the island and went down at "1000 steps" and got in the water there too - very cool - and totally unpopulated. We didn't eat out much as we love to cook our own fare; however, we did hire a chef to come in one night and she cooked us a Rijstaffel. This is a sampling of many local dishes. This was such a treat and Norca, the chef, was great to talk to to find out all about the island. We loved Bonaire and Oceanscape for SO many reasons but the biggest one, we think, is that it is so quiet!! We did what we wanted, when we wanted and that was what made this trip perfect. We met some other residents of the Port Bonaire complex who told us what a great unit we had and how helpful and wonderful Connie is and it is all true! Connie, you have found paradise and we truly thank you for sharing it with us. We will be back.............next week available???? LOL Emily and Rob

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Paradise

Guest: lb2 (Indiana)
Date of Stay: 11/27/10 Review Submitted: 12/13/10

We have had many wonderful visits to the island of Bonaire, but our visit to Connie's condo the first week of December topped our list of great places to stay. The condo was immaculate, had everything we needed and last but not least and most important to us -- the view was absolutelly gorgeous. We spent many an hour just sitting on the balcony looking out at the water and bay. The condo provides everything advertised and a whole lot more. Connie -- you have this down pat!! We will be return vistors. Thanks for making our rainy week a ray of sunshine!!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Everything we Hoped and so much more

Guest: The Alaskans (Alaska)
Date of Stay: 10/23/10 Review Submitted: 11/04/10

The Rubeks have outdone themselves in making sure we were wanting or needing for nothing! The condo had more amenities than a luxury hotel suite would offer. Thanks to your clear and concise directions, we really didn't have to think at all on vacation. We tried several snorkel sites around the island, but honestly the very best were right outside the condo, particularily around the point to the left towards Windsock. The 1st day out we saw a Goldentailed Moray Eel, a school of Squid and a French Angelfish. Subsequent days: 3 White-Spotted Eagle Rays together, A school of huge Rainbow Parrotfish, Trumpetfish, Trunkfish,Cowfish,Filefish.....the list goes on and on. On 2 separate days we saw a Southern Stingray fly out of the water in the channel and bellyflop back in. The view was spectacular. Everything said, this vacation was easy, refreshing and relaxing. Bonaire is a gem of an island. So tranquil but not boring in the least. Lots to do and see out of the water as well. So thank you for the lovely place to stay and that Mark is a hero of a guy. We called him for a rookie mistake we made on a Sunday and he was there in a flash for us. Good hand he is. There is much snow already at home and it makes us very sad to leave in 2 short days. We hope to be back and maybe try out your newest addition! (congrats). With Gratitude, Tricia and Jerry

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: Bert & Estela
Date of Stay: 10/02/10 Review Submitted: 11/02/10

Well, well, well, Finally, after 36 reminders to self, I am making time to write. Thank you for sharing OceanScape with us... two weeks was not enough. Loved the snorkeling, caught lots of fish and rested a lot...it won’t be long before we plan another Bonaire. Mark was great. Bonefishing is a great Bonaire secret. OceanScape is perfect. Thanks, Bert and Estela

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Guest: Nancy and Nick
Date of Stay: 09/11/10 Review Submitted: 10/17/10

Hello hope you are well. This is the first chance I have gotten to tell you what a wonderful time we had in Bonaire. Your condo is beautiful and the grounds are great. You made the whole stay easy with clean and precise instructions. Also the advise on restaurants and grocery stores was very helpful. The wireless internet and printer was a great help. You should be running a hotel. You had all bases covered. As for the island and diving, could not have been better. Dive Friends took great care of us and exceeded our expectations. And then there's Mark. What a treasure you have with him there for you. We met him the first day there and he was always asking if we needed anything. Then when we left, he picked me up at rent a car and helped with luggage and drove us to the airport. Thanks again Mark. I only hope we can come back to your beautiful paradise another time in the future. WHAT A WONDERFUL TIME WE HAD ,,,Nancy and Nick

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Beautiful Oceanfront Paradise with Unbeatable Snorkeling within Steps!

Guest: Puppy Lover (Corona, Ca, USA)
Date of Stay: 08/16/10 Review Submitted: 11/11/10

We have never rented a vacation rental anywhere before, nor have we been to Bonaire before. This was defintely one of the BEST decisions we've ever made! I spoke to the owner, Connie, on the phone before we booked this unit and was very impressed with her! She was professional, had a great sense of humor, and was a great source of information on Bonaire! After speaking to her, I was fully convinced that THIS was the condo to book! Her unit is EXACTLY as pictured, so we weren't disappointed. The condo is well equipped and the view is AMAZING! I took some gorgeous sunset shots right off the balcony. On our first day, we saw a pod of dolphins from the balcony, jumping out in the channel, several iguanas on the property, and the beautiful, yellow sugar birds on the railing of the balcony! It was just like a postcard! A true tropical PARADISE! We are avid snorkelers. When we got in the water at the condo, using the convenient step ladder right in front, we were surrounded by colorful, parrotfish, trumpetfish, etc! It was SO gorgeous! Like being in your own private aquarium! In the channel we saw spotted rays, and TONS of parrotfish, and turtles. We snorkelled around the island at different spots, and found that we enjoyed the snorkeling at windsock/donkey beach to be some of the best! You can snorkel there within a few minutes from the condo. We got out there for a few minutes and enjoyed the white, sand beach (very rare in Bonaire). The pool was great too! We had an evening swim one night, and it was so refreshing and pretty at night. The caretaker, Mark, was a tremendous help to us when we needed him. He was there very quickly and did not give up until the problem was solved. His hard work and determination in the Bonaire heat and humidty did pay off, and we were most appreciative. This was our first trip to Bonaire, but definitely not our last! There are so many interesting things to do and see for such a small island. The locals are friendly and helpful, and the island is very diverse, yet still unspoiled and non-touristy, which appealed to us. We were not able to stay the full 10 days in the condo, as it was booked for the last 5 so we had to switch to another condo, BUT we know now to book way ahead when we come back to Bonaire again.....which we hope to do soon! THANK YOU Connie for all your help and tips! Everything worked out great and I will highly recommend you! You're wonderful and so is your condo! We'll be back!

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Guest: Patrick & Lin
Date of Stay: 07/20/10 Review Submitted: 09/19/10

Connie, Just wanted to say we had a great time. The condo was perfect. Mark met us at the airport, along with Poppy, but as Delta lost our luggage, it took a bit longer to get to the condo (had to fill out all the paperwork). It did arrive at 0600 the next day but we did miss out on diving Sat afternoon. Used Dive-Friends downtown and they were great as well. We are all ready talking about a return trip. Unfortunately we have already booked a Jan 11 trip to Aruba, but Lin has suggested to cut that trip short and go back to Bonaire. Again, thanks for everything and we'll definitely get in touch if /when we go back to Bonaire. Patrick

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Guest: Chris & Tom
Date of Stay: 04/28/10 Review Submitted: 09/19/10

Hi Connie, We loved your unit very much. The interior, the location, everything…We enjoyed the balcony a lot. The snorkeling out front was great. Saw a Southern Stingray, my daughter hasn’t even seen one yet. We enjoyed the boat dives with YS [Dive-Friends} from the port location, so easy . We had a very nice stay at your place, it is now our #1 unit on the island! Chris

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Guest: Ellen & Dick
Date of Stay: 04/10/10 Review Submitted: 09/19/10

Connie, we checked out today. Just wanted to let you know how much we enjoyed it (already miss it) and how wonderful we both think all of you are. Mark was a jewel, the place was everything you said it was…just as advertised… We have been extraordinarily impressed with all you provide with the condo. Way above average. You are wonderful hosts! Ellen

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Guest: Mike & Cathy
Date of Stay: 02/17/10 Review Submitted: 09/19/10

Connie, Just wanted to let you know that Cathy and I had a great time. Your condo was perfect and as you said the snorkeling out in front is some of the best on the island. We want to go back again next year and will probably get certified down there. We also really enjoyed the Roomers Hotel, thanks for getting us in there. The owners made us feel like family, we ate lunch and dinner there. We’ll be in touch about renting again next year. Thanks, Mike

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Guest: Mike & Sara
Date of Stay: 02/06/10 Review Submitted: 09/19/10

Hi Connie, Just wanted to let you know we have returned to the US safe and sound! We had an amazing time. The condo was great, and the weather and snorkeling were fantastic. Your directions and suggestions were very helpful. I should tell you that we acidentally broke one coffee mug, the orange one. The handle just came off as I lifted it out of the dishwasher. Please let me know how we can replace it. At this point we are thinking we would love to go back next year, probably about the same time, but our schedules are not certain yet. We will be in touch later when our plans are more definite. Thanks, again, for helping us have a wonderful time. Mike

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Guest: Robert & Rachel
Date of Stay: 01/16/10 Review Submitted: 09/19/10

Hello Connie, First things first…WE LOVED BONAIRE. We want to come back later this year. We ended up getting our Open Water Scuba Certification. So, this last trip was mostly a set up and discover the island. We really can’t wait to come back (hopefully Thanksgiving week). After looking at the pictures online and reading up on the condo online, we found the condo to be just as expected. The view is for sure way better than the pictures give credit for. We really love the porch! Overall, we had a blast... Hopefully, we will stay at your condo again in November. Rachel

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