Stephen, Author at Bon Trade Intl. Corp.

Christmas Traditions Around the World

The Christmas period is celebrated around the globe in wonderfully diverse ways, showcasing the rich culture, history, and customs of each region. This season of joy and togetherness is brightened by traditions, festive fun, and community celebrations, no matter where or how it’s observed. Here, we share some of the unique ways Christmas is celebrated in various countries.

Caribbean Christmas

Many Caribbean islands begin celebrating Christmas as early as late November or early December. The streets are adorned with twinkling lights, Christmas trees, and vibrant parades. Seasonal food and drinks are central to the festivities, blending African, Dutch, French, and Caribbean influences, reflecting the region’s colonial and cultural heritage.

Aruba
In Aruba, the festive season begins with the arrival of Sinterklaas at Oranjestad’s harbor by steamboat in late November. He delights children by distributing sweets and presents. On December 5th (Sinterklaas Eve), children place shoes by doors or fireplaces, hoping to find them filled with candy or small toys by morning. Sinterklaas and his helpers also parade through the streets, spreading holiday cheer.
Curaçao
As in Aruba and Sint Maarten, the season start with Sinterklaas and goes on to Christmas celebrations. Islanders celebrate Noche Buena (Christmas Eve) with family feasts and midnight mass in churches across the island. Christmas Day (December 25th) is often reserved for exchanging gifts and enjoying special meals with loved ones. Boxing Day offers relaxation and family time. On New Year’s Eve, Willemstad lights up with the dazzling Pagara fireworks at midnight, symbolizing the end of the year and the welcoming of a new one.

St. Maarten
Christmas in St. Maarten is a vibrant mix of cultural traditions, including Sinterklaas festivities, Midnight Mass, and festive Réveillon dinners. The island comes alive with music, feasting, and community gatherings.

Ethiopia
Ethiopians celebrate the birth of Jesus on January 7, a holiday known as Ganna or Genna. On this day, people dress in traditional white cotton garments called “netela”, often decorated with colored stripes. Religious processions and church services are central to the celebration, reflecting Ethiopia’s deep spiritual traditions.

Colombia
In Colombia, the Christmas season begins with the Noche de las Velitas (Night of the Little Candles) on December 7, honoring Mary and the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. Families light candles and lanterns outside their homes, creating a beautiful spectacle. Over time, these celebrations have expanded to include fireworks, public events, and traditional foods.

Guatemala
Guatemala’s holiday season features unique traditions like La Quema del Diablo (Burning of the Devil) on December 7, the eve of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. Locals burn effigies of the devil, symbolizing purification and the casting out of evil, while fireworks light up the night sky. This is followed by Christian rituals and celebrations.

Iceland
Icelandic children eagerly anticipate visits from the Yule Lads, mischievous troll-like figures who bring gifts (or tricks) in the 13 days leading up to Christmas. Each Yule Lad has a unique personality and name, adding excitement and fun to the season. The celebrations also include warm gatherings with traditional foods and folklore.

Italy
In Italy, the festive season extends into January with the arrival of La Befana, a friendly witch who delivers gifts to children on Epiphany Eve (January 5th). This tradition keeps the holiday spirit alive well beyond Christmas Day. Italians also celebrate with elaborate nativity scenes, Midnight Mass, and feasts featuring regional specialties.

Australia
In Australia, Christmas is celebrated during the summer, making outdoor activities a central part of the festivities. Families gather for barbecues, beach picnics, and carol concerts. Traditional meals often feature fresh seafood, salads, and cold meats rather than the classic roast dinner. Cities and towns are decorated with lights and ornaments, bringing holiday cheer to warm summer nights.

From Curaçao to Australia, Christmas is a time of joy and connection. It is celebrated through unique traditions, music, church services, decorations, food, and fireworks. This special time of year unites communities, sharing love, gratitude, and the spirit of giving as they mark the birth of Jesus Christ.

The origins of Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving has a way of drawing us back to the essentials—family, food, and gratitude. But how did this beloved holiday begin, and how did it evolve into the feast we know today? Let’s take a journey through the history of Thanksgiving, from a humble harvest celebration to the centerpiece of the holiday season.

The story starts in the autumn of 1621, in Plymouth, Massachusetts. The Pilgrims, having survived a brutal first winter in the New World, gathered to celebrate their first successful harvest. They invited their neighbors, the Wampanoag, who had taught them essential survival skills like planting corn and fishing in the local rivers. Together, they shared a three-day feast.

What was on the first Thanksgiving menu ?

What was on the menu? Likely a far cry from the dishes we pile onto our plates today. Instead of turkey, the meal featured wildfowl such as ducks or geese, along with venison brought by the Wampanoag. Corn, beans, and squash—known as the “Three Sisters” in Native American agriculture—were also likely present, along with dried fruits and shellfish.

Giving thanks and being grateful

Though this feast was a one-time celebration, the idea of setting aside a day for gratitude resurfaced throughout American history. In 1789, President George Washington proclaimed a day of thanksgiving to mark the new Constitution. Then, in 1863, Abraham Lincoln made Thanksgiving a national holiday, urging Americans to reflect on their blessings even amid the Civil War. It was a moment of unity during a time of division, and gratitude became the enduring theme of the holiday.

When did Turkey become the main course

By the late 19th century, Thanksgiving began to resemble what we know today. Turkeys took center stage because they were plentiful, affordable, and big enough to feed a family. Stuffing, or dressing, became a favorite accompaniment, with recipes varying by region—cornbread stuffing in the South, wild rice in the Midwest.

Mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce also joined the table over time. Cranberries, native to North America, were originally consumed by Native Americans, but it wasn’t until sugar became more accessible in the 19th century that they transformed into the sweet-tart sauce we love today.

Do not forget desert !

And of course, what would Thanksgiving be without pumpkin pie? While the Pilgrims may have roasted pumpkins, the creamy, spiced dessert we know didn’t emerge until later, thanks to advancements in baking techniques and the availability of milk, eggs, and sugar.

Tradition is established with room for a personal touch

Today, Thanksgiving is a blend of history and tradition. Families gather to share not only food but also their gratitude for the blessings of the past year. The menu may evolve—some add dishes like mac and cheese, green bean casserole, or even vegan options—but the essence of the holiday remains the same.

An attitude of gratitude on Thanksgiving

Enjoy the meal and remember how we got here and the real reason for the celebration

So as you carve the turkey or pass the stuffing this year, take a moment to reflect. Thanksgiving is more than just a meal; it’s a tribute to resilience, generosity, and the simple act of giving thanks. In a world that often moves too fast, it’s a reminder to pause and savor the moment—grateful for the people and traditions that bring us together.

Even if you do not live in the U.S.A, or you do not celebrate Thanksgiving as a formal holiday, remember the reason for this day of gratitude and be thankful everyone and everything you have in your life.

May God bless you all

Honoring our Heroes: Veterans Day in the United States

On November 11th, the United States celebrates Veterans Day. This holiday honors the men and women who served in the armed forces. Unlike Memorial Day, Veterans Day is for all veterans—those living, those who have passed, and those still in service. It’s a day to remember, reflect, and give thanks for the sacrifices they made to protect our nation’s freedom.

Veterans Day started as Armistice Day. This day originally marked the end of World War I, and when the Treaty of Versailles was signed on November 11, 1918. Later, in 1954, President

Dwight D. Eisenhower renamed it Veterans Day. The new name was meant to honor veterans from all branches and wars, from World War II to the Korean War and beyond.

A day of celebration and reflection

For many Americans, Veterans Day is personal. It’s a time to remember family members or friends who served. Across the country, communities come together in various ways. Some attend parades, others join assemblies, and some pause for a moment of silence. Visiting veterans’ hospitals, volunteering, or connecting with veteran organizations are all common ways to show respect.

Many sacrifices are made by our service men and women

Honoring veterans reminds us of their courage, strength, and dedication. They have served in both combat and peace missions, facing many risks and hardships. Many left families behind to serve our country. They have shown true dedication to our freedom and safety.

How can we help and honor our veterans.

There are many ways to honor veterans on this day. A simple “thank you” to a veteran can go a long way. Supporting veteran-owned businesses, giving to charities for veterans, or hiring veterans can all make a difference. Small actions can show veterans our appreciation in lasting ways.

This Veterans Day, take a moment to think about the service and sacrifices of our veterans. Their commitment to our nation’s freedom deserves our deepest gratitude. Let’s celebrate and honor these heroes who protect our nation. Their dedication and bravery are a legacy we can all look up to.

Bon Trade Intl. salutes all veterans

How did we end up with the name October on our calendar?

It’s all related to the fascinating evolution of our calendar.

In ancient Rome, calendars looked different. They started with a ten-month calendar. March, named after Mars, the god of war, marked the year’s beginning. Following March were April, May, June, Quintilis, Sextilis, September, October, November, and December. Months were initially based on the lunar cycle and the agricultural year.

Winter was a time Romans didn’t bother to count in their calendar. This changed when they realized the need for a more systematic approach. Around 713 BC, King Numa Pompilius reformed the calendar. He added January and February, making it a 12-month system, aligning more closely with the lunar year of about 354 days.

Still, discrepancies persisted, leading to further reforms. Julius Caesar made a significant change in 45 BC, introducing the Julian calendar. This calendar extended the year to 365.25 days and added a leap day every four years to keep seasons aligned. January became the first month of the year, cementing October in its new spot as the tenth month.

Despite these improvements, the Julian calendar wasn’t perfect. Over centuries, minor inaccuracies accumulated. By the 16th century, the equinoxes and solstices had drifted significantly. In 1582, Pope Gregory XIII enacted further reform. This led to the Gregorian calendar, which we use today. He introduced rules for leap years, correcting the drift by omitting three leap years every 400 years. This made the calendar more precise.

In this evolved system, October retained its name despite shifting to the tenth month. The name comes from “octo,” the Latin word for eight. So each time October rolls around, we embrace centuries of history, reflecting an ancient past and the legacy of reforms that shape our lives today.

It’s fascinating how these changes have all culminated into the modern calendar, grounding us in the rhythm of the Earth’s seasons and the cycle of time itself. Pretty cool to think about, isn’t it?

Besides this interesting history, October is also important for being breast cancer awareness month and Halloween, which is celebrated on October 31st.

Why does the maritime shipping industry need to reduce emissions?

In 2021, about 90% of global trade goods were transported by sea, according to the International Maritime Organization (IMO). It translates to around 11 billion tons of freight. That is an impressive amount of cargo. However, the environmental consequences are that the shipping industry accounts for almost 3% of CO2 emissions worldwide. It also produces other pollutants like sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides and volatile compounds which cause environmental damage. Without intervention, these emissions could increase by as much as 50% by the year 2050.

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In response to the need to reduce these numbers, Industry leaders are exploring alternative methods to power vessels. These range from adopting cleaner technologies to optimizing operations and aligning with international regulations aimed at creating a greener future.

With global warming being such as critical issue, Bon Trade is pleased to see the maritime industry’s progress in reducing emissions through innovative technologies.

Adoption of Alternative Fuels

The good news is that shipping companies are now exploring ways to replace aging fleets. They are shifting away from traditional fossil fuels by introducing alternatives such as liquefied natural gas (LNG), biofuels, and hydrogen, while integrating wind power.

One of the most promising developments is the use of ammonia (NH3), as a fuel of the future. It produces no carbon emissions. However, it’s scalability and infrastructure costs need to be addressed.

Electrification and Renewable Energy

Electric ships are on the horizon, particularly for short-distance routes. These battery-powered vessels can reduce CO2 emissions significantly and use renewable energy sources like wind and solar power to recharge the batteries.

It is good to see that Drift Energy, a UK-based startup company, is developing a fleet of sailing ships that will produce green hydrogen through renewable energy. The ships will harness wind energy using underwater turbines to power onboard electrolyzers, generating and storing hydrogen. Construction of the first vessel is expected to begin in 2025.

Efficiency in Ship Design and operation

Improving the energy efficiency of ships is a key focus for reducing carbon emissions. The IMO’s Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) sets standards for new ships to be built with energy-saving technologies.

One example of a forward-thinking company is Höegh, which is aiming to cut carbon emissions, per vehicle, by up to 58% as part of its 2040 net-zero goal. Their latest vessel design, the Hoegh Aurora, is the largest car carrier. It has innovative features designed for sustainability and a capacity of 9100 units. This vessel is equipped with LNG, biofuel, and lower-sulfur oil engines, and ready to transition to ammonia by 2027.

The push to decarbonize is heavily influenced by international regulations. The IMO has set a goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 50% by 2050 compared to 2008 levels. Standards like the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) and Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP) are helping drive change.

Regulatory Push for Change

The European Union is also playing a role with its upcoming Emissions Trading System from 2024 that includes shipping.

Operational efficiency is equally important. By optimizing routes, reducing speed, and utilizing digital tools like predictive analytics and artificial intelligence, shipping companies can significantly reduce fuel consumption.

Conclusion

Bon Trade Intl. Corp. is excited that the maritime industry is making significant strides in reducing carbon emissions through innovation, cleaner fuels, efficiency measures, and regulatory compliance.

Continued collaboration between industry stakeholders, governments, and technology developers will be key to achieving emission reduction goals and supporting greener logistics in the future, and Bon Trade will be supporting them all the way.

Understanding the Difference in Labor Day Celebrations:

Why We Are Closed for Business Today, Sept 2nd, 2024?

As a shipping business based in the United States, we are committed to providing exceptional service to our valued customers in the Caribbean and beyond. However, today we are closed in observance of Labor Day, a significant holiday in the U.S, that celebrates the contributions of workers to the nation’s prosperity.

I am sure you know Labor Day being observed on May 1st, known as International Workers’ Day or May Day. It is celebrated by many countries around the world. This difference in dates often raises questions. So let’s take a closer look at the history and reasons behind these distinct celebrations.

The Origins of Labor Day in the United States

In the United States, Labor Day is celebrated on the first Monday of September each year. This holiday originated in the late 19th century. It was during a time when the labor movement was gaining momentum, and workers were fighting for fair wages, reasonable working hours, and safer working conditions. The first Labor Day parade was held on September 5, 1882, in New York City. It was organized by the Central Labor Union. The event was a significant success, leading other labor organizations to adopt the idea of a “workingmen’s holiday.”

By 1894, Labor Day had become a national holiday, signed into law by President Grover Cleveland. The choice of September was deliberate. It distanced the U.S. holiday from International Workers’ Day on May 1, which had connections to more radical labor movements. It also considers the Haymarket Affair in Chicago in 1886, a violent confrontation between labor protesters and police. The U.S. government wanted to avoid further association with these events. So it opted for a September celebration to honor American workers in a manner that encouraged national unity and economic progress.

May 1st: International Workers’ Day

In contrast, the International Workers’ Day is celebrated on May 1st and has roots in the global labor movement. It is widely recognized as a day to honor the struggles and achievements of workers worldwide. This date was chosen to commemorate the Haymarket Affair in Chicago. It is a pivotal event in labor history that underscored the fight for the eight-hour workday. Today, May Day is observed in many countries with parades, protests, and various demonstrations advocating for workers’ rights and social justice.

Why We Are Closed Today

Today, as we celebrate Labor Day in the United States, our offices are closed, and our team is taking a well-deserved break to honor this tradition. We understand that many of our customers in the Caribbean and other regions may not observe this holiday on the same date. However, we believe it is essential to recognize and appreciate the hard work and dedication of our employees, who are the backbone of our company.

While we are closed today, rest assured that we will resume our operations promptly and continue to provide the reliable shipping services you count on. We thank you for your understanding and patience, and we wish you a productive and pleasant day.

In observance of Labor Day, let’s take a moment to reflect on the contributions of workers everywhere, regardless of when the holiday is celebrated. It’s a day to appreciate the value of labor and the progress that has been made toward fair and equitable working conditions for all.

Happy Labor Day! We look forward to serving you again tomorrow.

The birth of a Nation

Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July, is a cherished national holiday in the United States, commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. This pivotal moment in history marked the birth of a new nation, free from British rule, and has since been celebrated with fervor and patriotism across the country. The day is not only a celebration of historical significance but also a reflection of American values and identity.

The journey to independence was fraught with challenges and sacrifices. The American colonies, frustrated by oppressive British policies and taxation without representation, sought to assert their right to self-governance. Tensions culminated in the outbreak of the American Revolutionary War in 1775. Amidst the turmoil, the Continental Congress convened, and on July 2, 1776, they voted in favor of independence. Two days later, the Declaration of Independence, primarily authored by Thomas Jefferson, was formally adopted, articulating the colonies’ grievances against King George III and their unalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

A symbol of National Pride

The Fourth of July quickly became a symbol of national pride and unity. Early celebrations included public readings of the Declaration, parades, and festivities. Over the years, the holiday evolved, incorporating fireworks, concerts, barbecues, and family gatherings. The tradition of fireworks symbolizes the “rockets’ red glare” and “bombs bursting in air” referenced in “The Star-Spangled Banner,” evoking the struggle for independence and the enduring spirit of freedom.

Independence Day is also a time to reflect on the nation’s founding principles and the ongoing pursuit of a more perfect union. It serves as a reminder of the democratic ideals enshrined in the Declaration and the Constitution, inspiring civic engagement and a commitment to protecting individual freedoms. The holiday underscores the importance of unity in diversity, as people from various backgrounds come together to celebrate their shared identity as Americans.

Patriotism and Diverse Traditions

Moreover, the Fourth of July has grown to represent not just political independence but also cultural independence. It is a celebration of American culture, from the diverse culinary traditions enjoyed at barbecues to the vibrant displays of patriotism in parades and festivals. The day fosters a sense of community and belonging, as people gather with family, friends, and neighbors to honor their country’s heritage.

An ongoing journey toward Liberty and Justice for All

In essence, Independence Day is more than just a historical milestone; it is a living testament to the resilience, courage, and spirit of the American people. It is a celebration of freedom, a tribute to the past, and a pledge to uphold the values that define the United States. As fireworks light up the sky each year, they serve as a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of July 4, 1776, and the ongoing journey toward liberty and justice for all.

The historic port of Willemstad, the capital of Curaçao, stands out like a gem in the colorful crown of the Caribbean.

It is no surprise that its vibrant inner city and harbor were designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997 for its cultural heritage and architectural beauty.

Standing picture perfect on the southern side of the island, Willemstad has an exceptional blend of rich Dutch colonial architecture mixed with lustrous Caribbean influences. This is a testament to its rich tapestry and highlights its unique urban landscape.

The cobblestoned city is divided into the districts of Scharloo, Punda, Otrobanda and Pietermaai which span 190 hectares and includes the harbor of Sint Anna Bay.

It is easy to understand why the Dutch established a trading settlement in Curaçao’s natural deep-water harbor in 1634 and Willemstad has developed over the centuries on this strategic location into a cosmopolitan city, one which you must visit at least once in your lifetime.

At Bon Trade, we take pride and pleasure in regularly shipping cargo from the US to this historic trading post that has evolved into a bustling, modern hub of activity.

Why was Willemstad chosen as a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Willemstad deserves its status as a Caribbean capital city listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It not only has picturesque qualities. It is also of outstanding universal value.

Original European architecture from the 1600’s

Over 700 of Willemstad’s buildings are protected monuments. They vividly reflect the influences from the Dutch, African, Portuguese and Spanish over several centuries.

The city has many historic landmarks. Included in the list is Fort Amsterdam, built in 1634. Another famous landmark is the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue, which is the oldest synagogue in the western hemisphere. There are also the Museum Kurá Hulanda and the Curaçao Museum. These historical buildings all tell the tale of a diverse, multifaceted history.

What makes Willemstad Special:

The iconic Queen Emma floating bridge that still connects the two halves of Willemstad

Willemstad is a city of two halves. The iconic Queen Emma Bridge links the oldest part of the city, Punda, with Otrobanda. This further symbolizes the unity and connectivity of this community.

UNESCO selected Willemstad as a World Heritage Site because of the town’s planning and architectural qualities. Willemstad is also a prime example of how colonies developed organically in the Caribbean by combining European traditions with influences from the Americas and Africa. This happened over 3 centuries.

The city’s music scene, carnival, buzzing businesses and local festivals highlight the dynamic spirit of Curaçaoan people.

This globally recognized UNESCO status means that Willemstad and Curaçao will be preserved for future generations while tourists and traders continue to flock to celebrate its heritage, cultural resilience and architecture.

Why not be one of them and discover the rich historical details that define Curacao? You will not be disappointed.

In celebration of Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day, Bon Trade shines a spotlight on the special contributions made by women of the Netherlands Antilles to events in history and contemporary society.

Women from the Caribbean Islands of Aruba, Curaçao and Sint Maarten have been trailblazers and inspiring many.

The three people we wish to mention in this article, for International Women’s Day, are remarkable women, whose extraordinary achievements will energise and encourage generations to come.

Curaçao-born swimmer Enith Sijtje Maria Brigitha (born 1955) who first learned to swim in the Caribbean Sea, was twice named “Dutch Sportswoman of the Year” in 1973 and 1974.

Enith Brigitha — Enith Sijtje Maria Brigitha

Her name is etched in history as the first black champion swimmer to win a medal in the Olympics.

Enith moved to Holland in 1970 and represented the Netherlands in the 1972 Munich Summer Olympics and won two bronze medals at the 1976 Montreal, and Quebec Summer Olympics in the women’s 100m and 200m freestyle.

She also gained eight other medals in 100 meters and 200 meters backstroke and freestyle events in 1973 and 1975 FINA World Championships and at the 1974 European Championships.

Enith’s accomplishments stand out as she competed against women from the German Democratic Republic who benefitted from illegal doping practices, so to many, she is considered a gold medal winner.

After retiring from swimming she moved back to Curaçao and opened her own swimming school.

Also noteworthy for her achievements is mezzo-soprano Tania Kross (born 1976) who made significant strides in music.

The Curaçao-born singer was classically trained at the Utrechts Conservatorium and the International Opera Studio in Amsterdam and has performed in renowned operas globally.

.Tania played a pivotal role in bringing Papiamento culture to the forefront when she encouraged Carel De Haseth to adapt his novel “Katibu di Shon” into the first opera in Papiamento, celebrating the cultural heritage of the Dutch Caribbean.

She achieved global recognition representing The Netherlands as a finalist in the 2003 BBC Cardiff Singer of the World competition and for her portrayal of Carmen at Glyndebourne in 2008.

Modern music-lovers might remember Tania best for her performance in the Dutch 2019 edition of “The Masked Singer,” which she won as a robot.

Political Pioneer Angela Altagracia “Tata” de Lannoy-Willems (born 1913, died 1983) will be remembered for being the first female member of the Estates of the Netherlands Antilles in 1949.

Despite failing to be elected initially, Angela successfully secured her position and contributed significantly to the political landscape, holding office until 1954.

In 1951 she was also appointed to the Council of Ministers and was also elected to Curaçao Island Council.

She spearheaded the way for future generations of female leaders in the region.

These women’s exceptional feats not only celebrate their personal successes. They have also managed to leave behind a lasting legacy that will shape the future by creating opportunities for the women for generations to come.

We celebrate their lives and their accomplishments at Bon Trade. And we hope this article brings their enduring accomplishments to light for people around the world and even those living in the Netherland Antilles who may be discovering them for the first time.

Nothing captures the exuberance of the Caribbean better than carnival season.

Both locals and tourists are captivated by these vibrant festivals that usher in a kaleidoscopic tapestry of colourful sights and sounds across the islands.

For those of us at Bon Trade and our esteemed clients, who use our NVOCC services, we delight in the hues, rhythms and jubilations of these cultural celebrations in Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao and Sint Maarten.

Every island has its own flavor

Each island offers its own unique carnival experience, infused with local traditions, rituals and global appeal. And Carnival 2024 will be no different.

The atmosphere in the streets vibrate with the sound of the Tumba and the Road March of the year. The music is played by steel drum and typical Caribbean groups. In some islands it is the calypso, and soca music. Regardless of the island you will see flamboyant processions of dancers in elaborate costumes wind their way through the streets.

The celebrations usually start in January and climax in February

During carnival season many resorts in Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao and Sint Maarten are booked to capacity with holiday makers. After all, most of us love an opportunity to relax, dress up and dance the hours away.

A glimpse into history

The celebrations are often considered an opportunity for islanders to let their hair down, as the carnivals have their roots steeped in a fusion of colonialism, Catholic traditions and African heritage.

Carnival 2024 will attract visitors from across the globe to participate in these cultural celebration of music and dance.

Boom time for business

Carnival time offers island businesses the perfect opportunity to promote their businesses. Especially for those who cater to the festivities providing food, drink, costumes, and transport, helping to boost the local economy.

Our Caribbean container and freight forwarding services are often booked up well in advance of Carnival. And we also have the privilege of transporting some of the materials and vehicles needed to put on these extravaganzas for local tradesmen.

Advice for overseas visitors

For travellers seeking to immerse themselves in the Caribbean culture, there is no better time to visit the islands than during carnival. However, it is a good idea to book your transport and accommodation in advance to guarantee your place at carnival events. We would advise you to check local websites for full details and exact dates.

After all, you don’t want to miss out on the beauty and pageantry of these festivities, along with the sunset cruises, cuisine and rum cocktails.

Why Carnival matters

For clients of Bon Trade many of whom are global citizens with a penchant for the Caribbean’s rich culture, the Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao and Sint Maarten Carnivals offers more than entertainment. They are celebrations of heritage, a showcase of cultural diversity, that encapsulate the spirit of the islands’ rich history and are a testament to the resilience and creativity of the islanders, something we at Bon Trade cherish and encourage everyone to explore.