Venezuela

We had a little excitement on Bonaire a week ago. The air space around Bonaire was closed for big commercial flights for 24 hours.  This was due to the US extraction operation in Venezuela. As you can see from the map, we are close to Venezuela, about 60 miles to be exact.  We did not see any military activity as we are about 150 miles from Caracas. 

It did cause a food and gas panic on the island.  We stood in the checkout  line for 1 hour.  Of course we were with everyone else on the island that was concerned about cargo ships getting into our port to bring supplies.  We had no information from the Island government which is not unusual.  However, we did have US news and a press release from the US Consulate in Curacao.  Apparently, the news traveled fast and we all showed up at the grocery stores not knowing how long we might be without supplies.  This panic left the grocery stores bare for about 2 days.  They restocked quickly and we have had no food shortages.

We were not totally isolated during the 24-hour no fly time, Cruise and cargo ships came in and the inter-island small planes kept flying. Nevertheless, there was a calm nervousness. Buying food and fuel was our first concern (although we were well stocked with both). We didn't worry about our safety because there is nothing but tourists on Bonaire. Certainly, no military or commercial value.

Flights returned within two days. Many people were stranded trying to get to Bonaire and trying to leave. And before you know it, we were all back to normal.

We are safe and sound in Paradise.