BESeilanden

The BES Islands, also known as the BES-eilanden in Dutch, are three special municipalities of the Kingdom of the Netherlands located in the Caribbean Sea. They comprise Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba, and form the Caribbean Netherlands. Since the dissolution of the Netherlands Antilles in 2010, the three islands have been administered directly by the Dutch government as special municipalities, while retaining a degree of local autonomy.

Geography and demography: Bonaire lies off the north coast of Venezuela and is characterized by a relatively flat, arid landscape. Saba is a volcanic island with rugged mountains and the highest point Mount Scenery. Sint Eustatius is hilly with volcanic origins. The combined population of the three islands is small, numbering in the tens of thousands. Dutch is the official language; English is widely spoken, and Papiamentu is common on Bonaire.

Governance and economy: Each island has its own island council and executive body, with the Dutch government handling defense, foreign affairs, and certain public responsibilities. The official currency is the United States dollar. The economy relies on tourism, maritime services, and public administration, with Bonaire also maintaining historic salt ponds and related activities. Visitors are drawn to diving, snorkeling, and nature experiences across the archipelago.

Transportation and culture: The islands are served by regional air links and maritime connections to neighboring Caribbean destinations. Each island has its own cultural scene, reflecting Dutch and Caribbean influences, with local festivals, music, and cuisine shaping daily life.

Environment and climate: The BES Islands lie in a tropical climate with trade winds and seasonal rainfall. They maintain protected areas, including marine and terrestrial reserves, and face challenges related to climate change and coastal restoration.