One of the Caribbean’s great undiscovered destinations is open again.
The Dutch Caribbean island of Statia (also known as St Eustatius) has officially reopened its borders to fully vaccinated travelers.
And most importantly, fully vaccinated travelers don’t need to quarantine. They just have to comply with the island’s health and safety protocols, which include mask-wearing, social distancing and frequent hand washing.
All travelers need to fill out the island’s Electronic Health Authorization System (you can do so here), and take and receive a negative PCR test within 72 hours of travel.
The island, known for its eco-tourism and anchored by the majestic Quill mountain, has embarked on a very strong health protocol amid the pandemic.
“It is said that tourism will not bounce back but bounce forward,” said Charles Lindo, Director of the St Eustatius Tourism Development Foundation. “The island government of Statia has done a tremendous job in not just keep the virus under control but keeping it out as well. Statia is one of the few islands in the region that can boast of hosting a week-long carnival during these times. We look forward to welcoming all vaccinated and non-vaccinated travelers to our shores. And we ask them to adhere to all the protocols in place so we all can continue to enjoy a safe and Covid-free Statia.”
Long a sought-after diving destination in the Caribbean, the island has been coming into its own in recent years, buoyed by its historic downtown and charming small hotels.
It’s also made news of late following a recent historical investigation that found that American Founding Father Alexander Hamilton spent a significant portion of his childhood on the island, leading Statia to be called Hamilton’s “forgotten Caribbean island.”
A major new luxury resort is also set to come on stream in Statia in the next month, with the imminent launch of the Golden Rock Dive and Nature Resort, which will open its doors in September (and has already opened its signature eatery, Breeze).
Statia is served by regular flights from neighboring St Maarten.
For more, visit Statia.
— CJ
