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St.
Eustatius |
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Statia. Short for St. Eustatius, Statia remains a relatively unknown and hidden paradise, with beaches and diving as well as a dormant volcano like nearby Saba. In particular, Statia is rich in history as an important port and center of trade back in the days of sail. |
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Once the Caribbean's
wealthiest port and prominent in the slave trade, with
thousands of ships anchored in the bay each year and hundreds of
warehouses on shore, Statia reached its peak during
the British blockade of its American colonies during the Revolution when
trade (and gunpowder) was diverted through the Caribbean (illustration:
Wikipedia). Sacked by
the British fleet in 1781, the waterfront fell into disrepair. With such
a rich history, Statia has
many historic structures, especially
the area around Fort Oranje in the center of
Statia's capital city, Oranjestad ("Orange"). Visit its world-class history museum
(see slideshow). Airport. The Franklin Delano Roosevelt Airport (EUX) is Statia's only airport. Taxis and Rental Cars. Rental cars and taxis are available at the airport. Local Carriers. Winair, Statia's main local carrier, has several daily, twenty-minute flights a day to St. Maarten's Queen Juliana International Airport as well as Saba. Also, Caribbean Sun now connects Statia to San Juan. Passengers with carry-on luggage only (or checked through luggage) may avoid immigration at St. Maarten airport. Luggage may be flown later if aircraft weight limits are reached by the passenger load, so carry on an Overnight Bag. |
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Ferry Service. Statia has no ferry service. |
