Starlink

We got Starlink! They recently got their permit to provide services on Bonaire and all of us are ordering it.  We are happy to have consistent and high quality internet services.  

The local internet is really weak, slow and inconsistent.  Worst of all, the island internet companies don't care that their service is poor.  They have not invested in upgraded infrastructure.  I think the whole system is held together with duck tape and bad cable hanging from the power poles. I think Starlink will hurt their business because many of the expats have made the shift.

We hope Starlink will add telephone services as well.  That will solve many of our communication issues.  We currently use eSims to get service on the island and when we travel.  In addition, we have a local telephone with service and Google Fi. It would simplify our communications if it could be through one source. 

It took only 10 days to get shipped to us.  It came through DHL.  When we went to pick up our order, the entire back room of DHL was loaded with Starlink boxes. Everything came in two boxes.  It included cables, a flat panel receiver, instructions, router and mounting equipment.

Rick (and a sailor friend of ours) evaluated the house for the best location to mount the flat panel.  The panel must face north-northeast. and have a clear line to the sky.  I expected a dish but Starlink uses a flat panel. Since we have trees, a tall roof and various other obstacles it took some time to identify the best location to mount the equipment.  

Starlink makes hook up and connection easy. There is a phone app to determine the right direction for the panel.  They provided picture diagrams to connect all the pieces and the cabling to the house. 

We are slowly becoming self sufficient with our utilities and lessening our food insecurity.  Our solar is up and running so we don't have to totally depend on island electricity.  Our freezer is humming along making food storage possible and we are less dependent on local grocery stores on a daily basis. Now we have consistent internet services which improves both the quality and quantity of our communication. 

Life on the island keeps getting better and better.