STATIA GET’S READY FOR TASTE OF THE CULTURES ON MAY 26

STATIA GET’S READY FOR TASTE OF THE CULTURES ON MAY 26

In photo: Charlie lopes, Staff member STDF

ORANJESTAD, St. Eustatius (May 18, 2016) -- St. Eustatius Tourism Development Foundation (STDF) and the St. Eustatius Business Association (STEBA) will host the first Statia Taste of the Cultures event on Thursday, May 26, at the dock in Lower Town, starting at 6:00pm. A parade of flags, choreographed by St. Eustatius Historical Gem Dancers, will start off the event.

The taste of the Cultures is billed as a community experience, a cross-cultural event, exhibiting multiple nationalities. Ten groups will participate in the first event representing, among others, Curaçao, Aruba, Suriname, St. Kitts and Nevis, China, Trinidad, Dominican Republic, Barbados, and Statia with an international twist.

“We want to create an atmosphere where all cultures on the island can unite, for united we are stronger,” said Winston Fleming, STEBA President.

“From tasting snacks and having a cold drink from various cultures to engaging in conversations with like-minded people from all walks of life, is the concept behind the event,” said Teena Lopes, STDF Public Relations Officer.

“With the birth of this event, visitors, as well as locals, will have the opportunity to taste the flavours of various cultures.” “Statia, a tiny island with a population of around 4000, has over 40 different nationalities. How best to enjoy each other, then bringing these various cultures together with food, art and traditions, to learn from each other and above all, taste each other’s national dishes,” said Maya Leon Pandt, Product Development and Human Resources Manager.

This food-filled fun day is part of STDF’s monthly tourism awareness programme. Its purpose is to increase/build tourism alertness on the island and at the same time, highlight different aspects of tourism that exists locally. Taste of the cultures is expected to take place on the last Thursday of the month.

“This will be an eye-catching extravaganza for all to enjoy. We encourage folks to come along with the kids and treat their taste buds,” said Fleming.