Sint Eustatius

Tiny, laid-back Sint Eustatius or ‘Statia’ is a Dutch island (where English is spoken too) in the northern Leeward Islands of the West Indies. Centered on the Quill Volcano, enrobed in a lush jungle of fruit trees and wild orchids, this destination is serene and has only basic (while wonderful) restaurants, making it an idyllic escape for the world-weary. Parts of the sea here are very rough, but visitors can swim from the calmer Caribbean side of the island at Orange Beach and will enjoy searching for the distinctive blue beads in the sands on Crook Castle Beach. The marine life offshore is spectacular, with beautiful wrecks and the buried remains of the Lower Town adding intrigue. Delve further into local heritage with a visit to the Sint Eustatius Museum, and the majestic Fort Oranje, (which also provides jaw-dropping views).