Princess Beatrix of the Netherlands Embarks on a Visit to Sint Maarten and Saba
EN BREF |
| - Princess Beatrix of the Netherlands to visit Sint Maarten and Saba from November 12 to 15. |
| - Focus on nature conservation and social initiatives with the Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance (DCNA). |
| - Reopening of Princess Juliana International Airport on Sint Maarten. |
| - Visit to Emilio Wilson Park and participation in poetry and storytelling sessions. |
| - Interactive lesson on Marine Spatial Planning at Milton Peters College. |
| - Exploration of Perpetual Plastics project by EPIC Sint Maarten. |
| - Tour of new boardwalk at Salt Pond and boat trip around Mullet Bay. |
| - Exploration of Saba Conservation Foundation's maritime research. |
| - Visit to Queen Wilhelmina Park and interaction with children's initiatives. |
| - Examination of reforestation efforts in Saba's botanical garden. |
In the vibrant Caribbean, a momentous event is on the horizon as Princess Beatrix of the Netherlands prepares for her anticipated visit to the enchanting islands of Sint Maarten and Saba this November. From November 12 to 15, Her Highness's journey will illuminate the islands' rich tapestry of nature conservation and social initiatives. As the patroness of the Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance (DCNA), the Princess's visit will showcase outstanding efforts in sustainability and community empowerment, leaving a lasting impact on the hearts and landscapes of these beautiful Caribbean gems.
This November, Princess Beatrix of The Netherlands will be undertaking an important visit to the Caribbean islands of Sint Maarten and Saba. Her trip, from Tuesday 12 to Friday 15 November, will cover significant work by the Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance (DCNA) and several impactful social initiatives. The visit also includes cultural interactions and important conservation efforts, underscoring her ongoing dedication to these vibrant communities.
Strengthening Community and Nature Conservation Efforts
During the trip, Princess Beatrix will place a spotlight on the extensive work carried out by the DCNA, as she is their patroness. The Princess will be diving deep into the islands' social initiatives and environmental work. Her visit to Emilio Wilson Park on Sunday, November 13 will highlight the historical and ecological significance of this beautiful area.
A Ceremonial Touch at Princess Juliana International Airport
A key moment in her Sint Maarten itinerary will involve the reopening of the Princess Juliana International Airport building, recently restored after the devastation caused by Hurricane Irma in 2017. This event will bring together local dignitaries such as Prime Minister Dr Luc Mercelina, providing a platform to discuss recovery and future community resilience.
Educational and Interactive Initiatives
At Milton Peters College, students will engage the Princess with lessons on Marine Spatial Planning, emphasizing the strategic use of ocean spaces to ensure sustainability. This initiative aims to establish Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) with the backing of the Nature Foundation, DCNA, and Blue Marine Foundation.
Conserving History and Nature through Creative Approaches
On Thursday, her tour of the Salt Pond boardwalk introduces her to the New Birding and Ecotourism project. Her trip extends to a boat ride along Mullet Bay, the only Ramsar reserve on the island, emphasizing wetland conservation. The importance of rehabilitating mangroves at Little Key is also discussed.
Plastic Recycling Initiatives
Princess Beatrix will attend and learn about the 'Perpetual Plastics' project by EPIC Sint Maarten. This workshop focuses on recycling local plastic into functional items. The Junior Rangers from the Nature Foundation Sint Maarten will present their findings on plastic waste impacts, promoting awareness among young environmentalists.
A Day of Exploration and Interactions in Saba
Concluding her visit, Princess Beatrix focuses on Saba's environmental conservation by visiting the Saba Conservation Foundation's maritime research lab. Here, the Princess will explore research on herbivorous sea urchins vital for the coral reef recovery.
Community-Centric Developments
The Princess will also experience community-driven developments at Queen Wilhelmina Park, designed with the input of locals and children to create a space for play and social interactions. She will engage with children about park facilities, revealing a new nameplate for this community cornerstone.
Emphasizing Youth Empowerment and Environmental Education
Saba's new youth center, The Spot, will host the Princess as she interacts with young participants of the UNICEF program 'Children in their Power'. This initiative encourages youth to contribute ideas for a more child-friendly environment. Additionally, she will learn about 'Raising Our Future', a campaign aimed at fostering positive parenting discussions.
To further enrich her understanding, the Princess will visit a botanical garden, an initiative that started in 2019. Junior Rangers will share insights on reforestation projects and innovative methods like seed bombs. This educational aspect of the tour highlights her commitment to fostering the next generation of conservationists and environmental stewards.
For more information about Princess Beatrix's visit, see Princess Beatrix's Agenda.
Key Highlights of Princess Beatrix's Visit
| Event | Description |
| Arrival in Sint Maarten | Princess to reopen the Princess Juliana International Airport. |
| Visit to Emilio Wilson Park | Learn about the area's historical and ecological significance. |
| DCNA Poetry Session | Children recite poems on invasive species and nature conservation. |
| Marine Spatial Planning Lesson | Interactive session at Milton Peters College focusing on sustainable ocean use. |
| Perpetual Plastics Project | Presentation on recycling plastic waste into usable items. |
| Walk on Salt Pond Boardwalk | Introduction to local birds under Birding and Ecotourism project. |
| Ramsar Nature Reserve Visit | Boat trip along Mullet Bay, awareness about wetlands conservation. |
| Maritime Research Lab Tour | Insights into sea urchin breeding to aid coral reefs recovery. |
| Queen Wilhelmina Park Tour | Discussion on park renovation and its benefits for community. |
| Youth Center Visit | Talks with the youth about creating a child-friendly island. |
- Purpose of Visit: Focus on Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance (DCNA) and social initiatives.
- Key Dates: November 12 to November 15
- Events in Sint Maarten:
- Reopen Princess Juliana International Airport
- Visit Emilio Wilson Park for historical and ecological education
- Attend a poetry and storytelling session focused on nature
- Visit 'Perpetual Plastics' project for recycling insights
- Explore Salt Pond Boardwalk and local birdlife
- Reopen Princess Juliana International Airport
- Visit Emilio Wilson Park for historical and ecological education
- Attend a poetry and storytelling session focused on nature
- Visit 'Perpetual Plastics' project for recycling insights
- Explore Salt Pond Boardwalk and local birdlife
- Activities in Saba:
- Tour Saba Conservation Foundation maritime laboratory
- Experience Queen Wilhelmina Park renovation efforts
- Visit the Botanical Garden for reforestation projects
- Engage with youth at the Youth Center The Spot
- Tour Saba Conservation Foundation maritime laboratory
- Experience Queen Wilhelmina Park renovation efforts
- Visit the Botanical Garden for reforestation projects
- Engage with youth at the Youth Center The Spot
- Reopen Princess Juliana International Airport
- Visit Emilio Wilson Park for historical and ecological education
- Attend a poetry and storytelling session focused on nature
- Visit 'Perpetual Plastics' project for recycling insights
- Explore Salt Pond Boardwalk and local birdlife
- Tour Saba Conservation Foundation maritime laboratory
- Experience Queen Wilhelmina Park renovation efforts
- Visit the Botanical Garden for reforestation projects
- Engage with youth at the Youth Center The Spot