21 sq km (8 sq miles).
Population:3,900 (2013).
Population density:185.7 per sq km.
Capital:Oranjestad.
Government:The National Office for the Caribbean Netherlands acts on behalf of the Government of the Netherlands. The Representative for the public bodies of Bonaire, Saint Eustatius and Saba represents the Government of the Netherlands on Saba.
Head of state:King Willem-Alexander since 2013, represented locally by Governor Jonathan Johnson since 2008.
Head of government:Prime Minister Mark Rutte since 2010, represented locally by Kingdom Representative Gilbert Isabella since 2014.
Electricity:110 volts AC, 60Hz. North American-style plugs with two flat pins (with or without grounding pin) are used.
St Eustatius, popularly known as 'Statia', was a thriving port during the 17th and 18th centuries, becoming known throughout the Caribbean as 'The Golden Rock'.
The subsequent decline of the island has only recently been halted by an influx of tourists. The foundations of the Dutch sea walls are now sunk beneath the clear waters of the bay. Scuba divers and snorkellers can see many of the submerged ruins. Other attractions on the island include walking up The Quill; surfing off the northeast coast; and fishing trips.
The nightlife is centred on the main hotels and restaurants, including dancing and local live bands, which may play one of the two different indigenous blends of reggae and calypso - 'Pim Pim' and 'Hippy'.
St Eustatius became a special municipality of the Netherlands following the dissolution of Netherland Antilles in 2010.
Most visits to St Eustatius are trouble-free but you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate international terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners.
Be aware that the islands of the Dutch Caribbean are sometimes used as a drug passageway from South America to Europe and North America. Never leave bags unattended nor agree to carry a package for anyone.
Officially, tourists may enter for only 14 days but extensions are easily available.
This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK. It is correct at time of publishing. As the situation can change rapidly, visitors are advised to contact the following organisations for the latest travel advice:
British Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Tel: 020 7008 1500.
Website: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
US Department of State
Website: http://travel.state.gov/travel
