Marcel van Gaalen and Richard Ruiter, together with Frank and Marissa van der Heijden were recognized as Bonaire Ambassadors

Tourism Corporation Bonaire (TCB) has recognized four more visitors as Bonaire Ambassadors for October.

This includes Frank and Marissa van der Heijden from the Netherlands, who were honored for visiting Bonaire over the past 12 years. The couple has been visiting Bonaire since 2012. “What attracts us most to Bonaire is the island’s culture and the friendly people. We also love Bonaire’s krioyo (local) food and the many diving spots the island offers,” said Frank and Marissa van der Heijden.

Marcel van Gaalen, also from the Netherlands, was honored for 15 years of visiting Bonaire. Marcel shared: “My love for Bonaire began in 2011 when a good friend moved to the island. We agreed to meet at least once a year in the Netherlands to have a beer together. This became a tradition we still maintain to this day, but now on ‘Dushi Boneiru’.” Marcel received a silver pin to commemorate his 15 years of visiting the island.

Richard Reiter from the United States was also honored. Richard has been visiting Bonaire for 40 years and has led a group of divers made up of dentists for at least 30 of those years. Over the years, the group has stayed at various accommodations around the island. “I remember getting certified in 1985 at the old Bonaire Beach Hotel, which no longer exists,” said Richard, who continues to visit the island every year. On this occasion, a plaque was presented to Richard Reiter.

On behalf of the management, Helen Mercera presented the certificates, pins, and plaques to all the visitors who received recognition.