Going above and beyond to highlight Sint Eustatius as a key contender in Caribbean destination holidays, Statia Tourism ensures that travellers discover all there is to offer on this unique island.
Maya Pandt, Product Development Manager, opens our eyes to Sint Eustatius’ fascinating ties to colonial and Jewish heritage and explains how the board promotes sustainable tourism across the island.
Q&A WITH STATIA TOURISM
Firstly, please introduce us to Statia Tourism – what is your vision and mission?
Maya Pandt, Product Development Manager (MP): Our vision is for Statia to be recognised as an authentic and sustainable destination. It is an island of memorable and unique culture and nature-based experiences in a peaceful and tranquil setting amongst friendly people who take pride in their identity, cultural heritage, and natural environment.
How do you promote Sint Eustatius as a destination, and what makes it different from other Caribbean islands?
MP: Statia is promoted in various destination marketing publications, on social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, and in collaboration with neighbouring islands’ tourism entities.
Statia does not have the white sand beaches to attract beach lovers, however, we do have amazing diving experiences with several wreck dive sites, breathtaking hikes for nature lovers, and well-maintained historical areas that tell the story of Statia’s past.
As an island teeming with heritage, what historical attractions await travellers to Sint Eustatius?
MP: Statia has various historical sites that give travellers a sense of what occurred on our little island, including the Honen Dalim synagogue and Jewish cemetery, both opened in 1739; the Dutch Reformed Church built in 1755 that has ties to President Roosevelt; and Fort Oranje, where the ‘First Salute’ to the US happened.
Simon Doncker House, an 18th century mansion built by wealthy merchant Simon Doncker, is now a museum that chronicles Statia’s history with exhibits of colonial trade and slavery, its Jewish community, and the famous ‘First Salute’. In the basement, there are also artefacts from the pre-Columbian era.
What other unique landmarks and activities can visitors enjoy on the island?
MP: Zeelandia Beach is a unique landmark as it’s the location where leatherback turtles arrive to nest. Although it’s not safe to swim there due to the strong Atlantic currents, the beautiful stretch of sand is ideal for picnics, beach sports, and, at night, beautiful star gazing with bonfires.
How can travellers also embrace sustainable tourism and nature on their visit?
MP: Travellers can assist in sustainable tourism by reducing plastic usage, respecting the island’s nature laws, such as not breaking plants or feeding animals in the wild, and not touching the coral reefs or taking archaeological artefacts when diving. Visitors can also engage more in local and cultural heritage.
Why, in your opinion, should someone visit Sint Eustatius in 2025, and are you optimistic about the future of the tourism industry going into next year?
MP: Statia is a unique, safe destination with friendly people, great diving spots, an interesting history, and relaxing nature hikes.
We always have to be optimistic, and with increased marketing efforts, we can put Statia in the spotlight for visitors who will appreciate what we have to offer.
