The Statia shoreline at Lower Town. Photo courtesy of St. Eustatius Tourism Development Foundation.
ST. EUSTATIUS--St. Eustatius Tourism Development Foundation (STDF) in collaboration with stakeholders is urging residents to vacation at home in a special “staycation” promotion at several of the island’s hotels.
Participating establishments include Statia Lodges, Papaya Inn, Old Gin House and Knippenga Villa Rental.
The staycation offer is open only to residents of Statia and proof of residence on the island must be presented at the time reservations are made, to receive a voucher. For the package, guests must reserve a minimum two-night stay at one of the participating hotels. The stay is offered at a reduced rate for the first night and guests will enjoy the second night free. Guests must be 21 years and older to qualify.
Reservations can be made between March 15 and June 30, 2021, for stays between March 15, 2021, and March 15, 2022.
The staycation voucher is not transferable, cannot be used outside of the dates specified on the voucher and is applicable per room, not per person, STDF Product Development Manager Maya Pandt said. Businesses participating are legally recognised hotels, motels, inns, home-stay and guest houses, registered at the St. Eustatius Chamber of Commerce, the Statia government, STDF and the local Tax Office.
The initiative is an attempt to stimulate the tourism industry and assist the hotels economically, Pandt noted. “It also presents the opportunity for locals to live like tourists and enjoy the facilities and amenities that we offer to guests on our island.”
STDF aims to encourage local tourism and create an appreciation and understanding of the island’s tourism product amongst residents. Pandt said this opportunity will allow Statia residents to treat themselves to a staycation and live like a tourist.
“We strongly recommend prior to booking your reservation at any of your favourite establishments to contact the Tourist Office for additional information. Certain restrictions apply to this promotion,” Pandt said.
Additional information can be obtained by contacting Shanettie Carty at the Tourism Office between 8:00am and 4:00pm.
