Mélange Travel & Lifestyle Magazine July 2018 | Page 558

Dutch Reformed Church Taste the Cultures Golden History Fort Oranje St. Eustatius is a tiny island located in the Lesser Antilles. The petite Dutch Caribbean destination is well known for world-class diving, nature in all its glory, historical sites and ruins as well as tranquillity. The Golden Rock, as she is widely known has a population of about 4,000 inhabitants. In the population mix, resides a chain of approximately 40 different nationalities. Visitors to Statia will be impressed by the wealth of history that lies within this small island. “Discovered” by Christopher Columbus in 1493, it was owned by different countries no fewer than 22 times. Since 1816, however, it has been continuously a Dutch territory and, although small, was the first nation to officially recognize the new United States of America in 1776. Visit the Museum and take a tour around the Golden Rock to learn more about its Golden history. Among the 40 different nationalities is the concept behind the event. This living on St. Eustatius, one of the most eye-catching extravaganza is for all to anticipated cultural events on the island enjoy. Besides tasting, there is also a is Statia Taste of The Cultures (TOTC). The program put in place monthly which event is a real community experience, includes: Dancing, band performances, a cross-cultural event, skits, documentaries, DJ . . . dishes are exhibiting multiple Entertainment, games etc. nationalities. served in small TOTC was made with people, portion sizes and Every last Thursday of food and fun in mind. Creating the month from 6pm are sold at set an atmosphere where all to 9pm folks can look prices, a maximum cultures on the island can unite, forward to enjoying taking you away from your busy of only 5 dollars. schedule to just unwind, mix the nice, warm and cozy atmosphere that This gives guests and mingle with like-minded is set-up at the Mike people from all walks of life. the opportunity van Putten Youth One of the most attractive parts to taste as many of the event is the price factor. Centre. TOTC, which started in May of 2016, dishes as possible. All dishes are served in small continues to grow portion sizes and are sold at set and has become a local’s favorite place prices, a maximum of only 5 dollars. This to be. The event is hosted monthly by gives guests the opportunity to taste as the St. Eustatius Tourism Development many dishes as possible. Foundation (STDF) in close collaboration with the St. Eustatius Business How best to enjoy each other, than Association (STEBA). bringing various cultures together, a combination of food, art and traditions, Engaging in conversations, while having a great way to learn from each other a snack or a cold local drink with like- and above all, taste each other’s national minded people from all walks of life dishes.