A tropical Caribbean island loved by Princess Diana is preparing itself for a massive influx of Royal fans.
Nevis, known for its stunning beaches and lush landscapes, is on the brink of a tourism revolution after a substantial airport expansion that will allow direct flights from the USA was given the go ahead earlier this year.
The existing runway cannot accommodate larger planes that most major airlines fly – meaning international tourists have to fly to neighbouring islands and then travel across which puts some off.
Currently, flights from North America or the UK often connect through San Juan, Puerto Rico, or Antigua.
Alternatively, you can fly to St. Kitts and then take a ferry to Nevis.
But this is all set to change when the expansion is complete – ushering in a new period of growth for the island.
Mark Brantley, Nevis’ premier, said: ‘We are proud of our rich history and the fact we were the destination of choice for Princess Diana.
‘We look forward to welcoming more visitors and fans of the British Royal Family from the UK and further afield to experience everything our island has to offer.’
Nevis, known for its stunning beaches and lush landscapes, is on the brink of a tourism revolution after a substantial airport expansion that will allow direct flights from the USA was given the go ahead earlier this year. Pictured is Princess Diana in the sea in Nevis in 1993
Mark Brantley, Nevis’ premier, said: ‘We are proud of our rich history and the fact we were the destination of choice for Princess Diana.’ Above Diana is pictured on the beach with Princes William and Harry
Mr Brantley hopes that increased private and commercial jet traffic continue to contribute to Nevis’ economy (pictured)
Speaking about the recent investment Nevis has received, he said: ‘Our beautiful island continues to strive forwards.
‘Although our recent progress has been very positive, we are constantly on the lookout for major foreign investment which takes our island to the next level.
‘Enhancing our airport infrastructure is central to our goal to become a regional Caribbean leader. We look forward to welcoming more visitors to our unique body of land.’
Mr Brantley hopes that increased private and commercial jet traffic continue to contribute to the island’s economy.
‘Hopefully we can get American Airlines to come direct from Miami and we can get regional traffic coming into our airport. That’s the ambition at this point.’
It is likely that the greater ease of access will attract Royal fans in their droves to see the Montpelier Plantation Estate where Diana stayed with Princes William and Harry as well as other attractions they visited.
The island has been etched in Royal watchers’ folklore since Diana sought solace from the intense scrutiny of Royal life in 1993.
She enjoyed unforgettable moments with the princes – away from the prying eyes of the paparazzi – as speculation about the state of her marriage to Prince Charles swirled.
It is likely that the greater ease of access will attract Royal fans in their droves to see the Montpelier Plantation Estate where Diana stayed with Princes William and Harry as well as other attractions they visited
Charlestown, the island’s capital, is home to multiple Georgian-style buildings and may become a UNESCO World Heritage Site
They announced that their marriage was over around six months after the trip.
At the time Nevis – called ‘Queen of the Caribees’ due to its thriving sugar economy in previous centuries – was relatively unknown as a tourist destination despite its idyllic beaches, beautiful scenery and picturesque towns and cities.
Charlestown, the island’s capital, is home to multiple Georgian-style buildings and may become a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It’s also famous for being the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States.
More recently it became famous as the destination for Royalty – with William and Harry both visiting the island as adults.
But the childhood visit with their mother remains its most famous Royal visit.
It is something to this day that is fondly remembered by locals who saw them on the beaches or enjoying a meal in a restaurant.
This welcoming nature has not changed and its 13,000 residents have always prided themselves on providing visitors with the ‘Old Caribbean’ culture of traditional lifestyles, customs, and practices that pre-date mass tourism.
Nevis’ 13,000 residents have always prided themselves on providing visitors with the ‘Old Caribbean’ culture of traditional lifestyles, customs, and practices that pre-date mass tourism
‘It’s a Nevisian thing,’ Mr Brantley said. ‘When people come to Nevis, they truly get what we are all about. As Premier, it is my responsibility to continue delivering for all Nevisians.
‘Tourism is central to our economy, but we are also undertaking major initiatives to diversify (our economy) and make it more resilient to any external shocks. Major foreign investment remains critical to our efforts.’
An exact date for when the airport will be ready has yet to be announced.
But tourists will no doubt look to take advantage of Nevis’ increased accessibility.