- Harry and Meghan recently visited Colmbia
- They stayed for four days in the country
- Their total cost has been revealed
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, recently wrapped up a four-day tour of Colombia, leaving behind a trail of both excitement and eyebrow raises. The visit, which came with a hefty price tag of nearly £45,000, has been the talk of the town, especially among Colombia's political circles.
Also interesting:
A wedding filled with love!
Princess Märtha Louise Weds Shaman Durek In Fairytale Ceremony
After summer break
Back To Duty: Princess Anne Shines With Her Busy Royal Schedule
The cost of royalty
According to Colombia's vice-president Francia Marquez, who extended the invite, the nation shelled out Col$244,245,305 (£44,725.14) to ensure the royal couple's visit was nothing short of spectacular. This sum covered security and internal transport but didn't include the Sussexes' flights and accommodation, which they graciously covered themselves.
Senator Maria Fernanda Cabal, a vocal critic, slammed the visit as "showmanship" and "wasteful spending." However, the vice-president's office was quick to highlight the couple's personal contributions towards their travel expenses, showcasing their commitment to not burdening the Colombian coffers.
A journey of joy and controversy
From the historic streets of San Basilio de Palenque to the vibrant vibes of Cali, Harry and Meghan's tour was a blend of cultural immersion and community engagement. They danced, drummed, and even played volleyball, connecting with the people and promoting initiatives against cyber-bullying and for women's leadership.
)
Yet, the trip wasn't without its controversies. The security bill alone raised eyebrows, with £7,500 spent on engagements in San Basilio de Palenque and another £4,500 in Cali. Despite these costs, the vice-president defended the visit as a "very special" effort to build bridges and foster positive change.
Ensuring the couple's safety was a top priority, given Colombia's complex security landscape. The Foreign Office's warnings about travel to certain regions underscored the importance of the comprehensive security detail that accompanied the Sussexes throughout their stay.
More about Harry & Meghan:
Amidst family turmoil...
Prince Harry's Unexpected UK Return Sparks Royal Speculation
An emotional homage
Upcoming NYC Trip: Prince Harry To Honour Princess Diana’s Legacy
From tennis legends to TV stars
Harry and Meghan's Colombian tour has certainly left an indelible mark, sparking conversations about the cost of celebrity visits, the importance of cultural diplomacy, and the ongoing debate over the Sussexes' role in the public eye. As they continue to navigate their post-royal life, one thing is clear: their ability to capture the world's attention remains undiminished.
