Our day on this Bonaire Study Abroad experience started off with two dives in the morning, the sites we visited were “Tori’s Reef” and “Aquarius.” Tori’s Reef was an amazing dive, we saw a Loggerhead Sea Turtle swimming at about 80 feet, the Loggerhead is amazing to see underwater in their natural environment rather than at an aquarium. Diving is incredible because you are able to see animals you may have only seen in an aquarium in their natural habitat. Seeing these fish, creatures and other animals in their natural home gives you a greater appreciation for these animals, it makes you realize how truly wonderful these organisms are. Aquarius was not named because of the astrological sign but for when you are diving you feel like you are in an “aquarium.” This Bonaire study abroad experience actually opened a whole new world for me, diving up to 60 feet underwater takes you into an entirely new environment. This experience has increased my love for both science and the environment because I have been truly immersed in the subject I am studying.

We ended the day by going Kayacking in Lac Bay! Lac Bay is special because it has sea grasses which attract Sea Turtles! I have learned from Sea Turtle Conservation Bonaire that the growing sea turtles in Lac Bay mature faster than turtles in any other place of the world. Learning that, and then going to the place I learned about gives me a greater appreciation for the knowledge I have obtained.

During this Bonaire study abroad experience I had the opportunity to learn and enjoy the environment and culture of this beautiful country! I am so grateful to be have been able to hop into the ocean every morning for two weeks! I will be forever greatful to SPC International Programs, my professors and my classmates for this wonderful eye opening program!

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