/St_Eustatius

Like St Barthelemy/St Barts, St Eustatius is better known by its No. 2 name, Statia. Its relatively dry tropical climate is among the island plusses. Statia is basically a bit of green land dominated by The Quill, an extinct volcano with an altitude of 1,940 feet.

Dutch is the official language and the Netherlands Antilles guilder is the local currency. But you won't be "in Dutch" if you speak English and spend American--US dollars, that is.

The island opened for business in the 1700s and was a bustling freeport and tax haven for French and English traders. As they were wont to do, the English in 1816 captured and looted the island. Statia exchanged hands 22 times over the years, it was just that desirable.

The only city is Oranjestad, named for the Dutch royal family. This unique capital is divided into Upper and Lower Town, occupying land above and below coastal cliffs. Sights include historic Fort Orange, the island's Historical Foundation Museum and the former Government's Guesthouse. The latter was opened formally by Her Majesty Queen Beatrix in 1992.

The small volcanic beaches have such unusual names as Smoke Alley Beach, Banana Bay and Crooks Castle. Hurricanes, abandoned warehouses and shipwrecks have made for interesting underwater ruins rich in marine life.

Despite Statia's "teeny" size, there is no dearth of culinary delights ranging from pizza, hot dogs and barbecue to Italian, Asian and French specialities. Nightlife? Well, you best bring your own.

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