Raja Daou: A Pioneer of Bonaire and the Spirit of TeKiBon

Xp Bonaire IslandLife feature Story

From Lebanon to the World

When you meet Raja Daou, you meet more than just a man—you meet a storyteller, a dreamer, and a true pioneer of Bonaire. His journey is one that spans continents, cultures, and decades, culminating in a product that embodies the heart of this Caribbean Island: TeKiBon, a handcrafted spirit made from the native Yatu cactus.

Born in Lebanon, Raja’s life was always destined to be unconventional. At just 18, he left Beirut for Paris, backpacking and hitchhiking across Europe in search of adventure. Later, he found himself in Caracas, Venezuela, where he spent over 40 years immersed in the vibrant culture of his adopted home. He ran clubs, restaurants, and bars, managed a large farm filled with mangoes and limes, and enjoyed what he describes as a “romantic, passionate life.” But Venezuela’s political and economic turmoil eventually changed everything.

“I loved Venezuela,” Raja says, his voice carrying both fondness and sorrow. “My young life was there. But things became difficult, and I wanted to do something different.”

Finding Home on Bonaire

That desire for change brought Raja to Bonaire nearly 60 years ago. Initially, he came to create marketing materials for the island, helping promote Bonaire to the world at a time when it was still largely undiscovered. Later he became a resident and one of Bonaire’s early entrepreneurs, opening the Garden Café—a Lebanese restaurant that quickly became a beloved local spot—before eventually closing its doors in 2008.

Yet, Raja wasn’t done creating. In 2005, inspired by Bonaire’s unique landscape and determined to build something truly local, he turned to an unlikely source: the Yatu cactus. “I asked my wife, Esperanca, ‘What do we have here? We have cactus. Let’s see if I can make alcohol out of it.’” The experiment worked, and by 2006, he had registered Bonaire’s first-ever distillery.

The Birth of TeKiBon

TeKiBon was born—not from a business plan, but from passion.

Unlike many modern ventures focused solely on profit, Raja’s approach has always been deeply personal. He does not cut down entire cacti; instead, he harvests sustainably, allowing the plants to regenerate. His production remains small and carefully managed, with each batch handcrafted in his distillery, Spirits of Bonaire N.V., in Kralendijk.

The result? A line of spirits that reflect the island’s soul. The original offerings were a cactus-based tequila in white, gold, and silver, as well as white and gold rums. Today, TeKiBon boasts over 20 flavors, including fruit-infused varieties made from regional sourced ingredients, all fermented and processed in small batches.

“I don’t need more money,” Raja says with a shrug. “I’m happy to live on Bonaire. What matters is quality and creating something that is truly from this island.”

A Taste of the Island’s Soul

This philosophy is evident in every aspect of TeKiBon. The spirits are vibrant, bold, and authentic—much like Raja himself. They are sold at the cruise market at Wilhelmina Plein, and can also be found in shops like Van den Tweel’s local product section, El Tumbo (Kaya Grandi #11), and The Place Souvenir Shop (Kaya Grandi #8). Prices range from $25 to $60, depending on size and product, making them both accessible and special.

But TeKiBon is more than just a drink. It’s a living testament to Bonaire’s past and present—a bridge between the island’s early days of survival and community spirit, and today’s more modern, tourist-driven world.

“People don’t always understand how different Bonaire was,” Raja reflects. “In the beginning, it was basic. Small Caribbean houses, no big developments. But there was a strong sense of community—people relied on each other, respected each other. That’s something I still try to keep alive in my work.”

Raja, The Free Spirit of Bonaire

Raja remains a fixture in the local community, known for his sharp mind, free spirit, and willingness to speak his truth, no matter the circumstances. His story is one of perseverance, creativity, and love—for life, for people, and for the island he calls home.

So, if you find yourself on Bonaire, take a moment to meet Raja at the market or visit one of the shops that carry TeKiBon. Taste the cactus-based tequila, the rum, or one of his many fruit-infused creations. In doing so, you won’t just be savoring a drink—you’ll be experiencing a piece of Bonaire’s history, crafted by one of its true originals.

TeKiBon – Quick Info

Founder: Raja Daou

Established: 2005 (registered 2006)

Specialty: Handmade cactus-based tequila, rum, and over 20 fruit-infused liquors

Distillery: Spirits of Bonaire N.V., Kralendijk

Where to Buy:

Wilhelmina Plein Cruise Market,

Van den Tweel (local section),

Tambu (Kaya Grandi #11),

The Place Souvenir Shop (Kaya Grandi #8)

Contact: +599 7877348 / +599 7862686

Website: www.tekibon.nl