Eustatius

Saint Eustatius, commonly known as Sint Eustatius or Statia, is a special municipality of the Netherlands in the Caribbean. It forms part of the Caribbean Netherlands, together with Bonaire and Saba. The island covers about 21 square kilometers and has a population of around 3,000 residents. Oranjestad is the capital and main settlement. The island lies in the northeastern Caribbean, as part of the Leeward Islands.

Geography and environment: The island is volcanic in origin and features a central highland area with The Quill, a dormant volcanic cone and nature reserve. Its coastline comprises rugged bays and a sheltered harbor that has supported shipping for centuries.

History: Saint Eustatius was inhabited by Indigenous peoples before being claimed by the Dutch in the 17th century. In 1776, Fort Oranje fired the first salute to the fledgling United States, an event often cited as a milestone in American independence. The island remained part of the Netherlands Antilles until its dissolution in 2010, after which Sint Eustatius became a public body of the Netherlands.

Administration: It is governed as a public entity of the Netherlands with a locally elected municipal council and a lieutenant governor appointed by the Dutch crown. Dutch law applies, while English is widely spoken in daily life.

Economy and culture: The economy centers on public administration, port services, tourism, and agriculture. Attractions include the historic town of Oranjestad with colonial-era architecture, Fort Oranje, and the Quill Nature Reserve, which offers hiking and crater scenery. The island also offers diving sites and marine life.

Transport: Saint Eustatius is served by Saint Eustatius Airport (IATA: EUX). The main port handles cargo and passenger traffic, and inter-island services connect Statia with nearby islands.