Mélange Travel & Lifestyle Magazine July 2017 | Page 498

Statia.
Charming
SIMPLICITY
This little Dutch island, affectionately
called Statia, has charmed wanderers
from different nations for many
years. Once the world’s busiest cargo
seaport, Statia’s visitors are now mere
vacationers from scuba divers to hikers,
all seemingly lured by the rugged
volcanic landscape and the charming
off-the- beaten- track ambience the
island offers.
Not far from the craggy mountain tops,
the scenic blue sea of the Caribbean
holds some of the island’s precious
historic blue beads, colourful corals,
vibrant sea creatures, rusty anchors
and shipwrecks that can tell many a
tale.
Away from the coast, you’ll find Sint
Eustatius’ small capital Oranjestad.
The tiny town is rich with history,
although housing only about 1,000
locals, eliciting a warm, cozy feeling
which makes the need for adrenaline
unnecessary.
Leisurely stroll around the cliff-side
fort which protectively shelters
artifacts from a bygone era. Just a
walking distance from the fort, visit the
museum. You’ll get a hint of how the
wealthy lived on the island, centuries
ago.
Don’t expect to find urban fan fare on
this island. What you’ll find is charming
simplicity.