Meet Nastasha Richardson, Manager, Pasture Piece Bed & Breakfast
In today’s highlight of people making destination St. Maarten thrive, the spotlight is on Natasha Richardson of “Pasture Piece“. Her petite former plantation mansion functions as a private villa for rent – a unique spot to “sleep in history” as the property’s slogan goes – as well as event grounds for weddings and business socials.
All above is managed and organized by Richardson herself. Natasha, born and raised on St. Martin and educated in the Netherlands, put a passion for history into practice with the project. “I decided to turn my grandparents’ home into a bed & breakfast and museum. It gave me an outlet from an at times challenging job and the ability to give back to my island – on another level.”
It is also the previous generation that provided “tools” to deal with the massive project of preserving a monument and running a property in the process. “My father is a permanent source of inspiration, because of his wisdom, strength and determination”.
On Island Culture
Richardson’s focus with Pasture Piece is on inspiring others to safeguard island heritage, and promoting island culture in the process. “St. Martin has its own distinct culture and traditions that are not being highlighted enough. From the way we talk, to the food we eat and the family traditions we hold dear. We are not just a place to party and go beach hopping.” A call on visitors: “Come discover what lies under the surface, discover US!”.
For where to taste these celebrated food traditions, she has recommendations: “Yvette’s restaurant in French Quarter is where you can sample true local tastes. I believe it is officially called Chez Yvette’s but we just say Yvette’s – the best and most authentic local food on the island. Very consistent, always on point, never disappointing !”
In her eyes, culture is also centered around the old adage “The Friendly Island”. “My best island memories were just driving around the island as a child with my parents every Sunday, exploring new spots or just checking what’s new, meeting people in the process. Our core quality was and still is, our warmth and friendliness as a people. True St. Martiners, whether born here or born to be here, understand this and show it proudly, regardless of challenging times.”
Portraits At The Pasture
One of the experiences Pasture Piece offers is to immerse visitors into that warm culture by providing in-depth portraits of people related to the property. “Storytelling comes alive here, as the connections with ancestors and the current owner of the property are elucidated on. An experience like no other.” She likes the interaction with visitors herself too: “Overall, in my daily functioning, I enjoy meeting new people and just connecting with people in general. We are all so unique, but still have so much in common.”
But the cultural immersion at Pasture Piece has more layers than just learning about inhabitants: “Pasture Piece literally is a historical gem, as it formed part of the Retreat estate sugar plantation in the 1800s. At Pasture Piece you can experience history via a guided tour with explanations on the unique architecture of the building and its significance in comparison to modern day styles. Also, visitors get a taste of history literally whilst taking part in a local tea party, bush tea, local savories, and sweet treats.”
There is more to discover for visitors when interested in island history and culture beyond Pasture Piece too. “A visit to our local museum on Frontstreet is a must to get the true history of the island; they would in turn recommend various other spots to visit and tours to take.” Caribbean culture, clearly, also implies carnival. “Carnival is an annual cultural must-visit – though it seems somewhat grappling to keep its cultural flair. Still a great time to be on the island and to free up yourself!”
Find Peace at “Pasture Piece”
The mansion’s name also finds its base in history, as well as the unique atmosphere at the plantation house. “Pasture Piece was the original name of the property, and I loved the name as it refers to “a piece a pasture”, however it is also a play on words as it immediately refers to peace and calm.”
“At Pasture Piece, I feel a sense of peacefulness and joy, it brings back my childhood memories. It was always “grandma and grandpa’s house” where I enjoyed spending time. I still enjoy the fruits from the trees in the garden and can spend hours just chilling there – of course there are other beautiful spots on the island, but Pasture Piece remains my favorite.”
So what are these other spots? “I enjoy many areas, but when not at Pasture Piece, I enjoy the tranquility of Pinel island.” Mullet bay has a special place in her heart too. “Childhood days spent there were amazing, I can still recall the boardwalk there and jumping off of it with friends.” She adds smilingly: ” I love a beach where there are minimal rocks and you can clearly see your feet or anything else below. Mullet Bay has kept its beauty and charm for years on end. ”
Next to Pasture Piece, Pinel and Mullet Bay, Grand Case is a place to find relaxation. Once again, with a cultural perspective to it too: ” Its restaurants – often traditional style homes turned into restaurants or shops, its culture, beaches, tranquility, oh yes – and the shopping.”
“One by K” is her favorite shop. “I love the statement: One LOVE, One LIFE, One ISLAND! Yes, we have a French and Dutchside, but we are ONE!”
Is there time for more than her drive for the past and island culture? “Besides my passion for history, I help others, mostly children on a daily basis as a school counselor.” Thankfully, there sometimes is time for leisure left too, and even brings about hidden sides of Richardson: “I love to dance and have a good time, though most people would consider me quiet and reserved!”
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