While still highly ranked, Bonaire dropped out of the top group of islands in the 2007 National Geographic Traveler Magazine Destination Rating Poll. The 2 points it dropped, from 70 to 68, allowed its place to be usurped by Anguilla and nevis. The report published in the November/December issue considers that the world`s most appealing destinations, islands, are the ones most prone to tourist overkill.
The Traveler and national Geographic Center for Sustainable Destinations conducted its 4th annual study survey aided by George Washington University. A group of 522 experts in sustainable tourism donated time to review conditions of 111 selected islands and archipelagos.
Bonaire was hailed for its conservation practices, but was negatively cited for its rapidly growing real estate boom and the government`s intention to expand tourism, minimal sewage treatment, and potential stress on the environment. Bonaire`s coral reef management and sustainable tourism awareness program received special mention.
The article can be viewed online at www.national-geographic.com/traveler/features/islandsrated0711/islands.html