Despite a fascinating colonial
history, Statia, as everyone knows
the little island of
ST EUSTATIUS
, is now a tropical but slightly
forlorn outpost of the Kingdom of
the Netherlands. Once a proud and
wealthy "entrepôt" or
trading post between South America
and Europe, the money and people
have slipped away, leaving a
historical curiosity that makes for
an interesting day trip from St
Maarten.
As with nearby Saba , the
main drawback for those
contemplating a trip is the expense
and awkwardness of getting there.
Those who make the effort will find
that they have left the tourists
behind for a tranquil and friendly
spot, with good diving and hiking
opportunities.
The Island
Virtually everyone arriving in
Statia lands at the Franklin Delano
Roosevelt Airport , which sits in
the centre of the roughly
pear-shaped island. A short drive to
the southwest is Oranjestad, the
capital and only town, while the
Quill - a...
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