St Helena, a remote island steeped in history and known as Napoleon’s final exile, is now welcoming tourists with open arms. Nestled in the vast South Atlantic, this volcanic island with just over 4,000 residents offers a unique experience for explorers seeking something beyond the usual vacation.
Previously, reaching St Helena meant a grueling five-day boat journey. However, with the arrival of weekly flights and high-speed internet, the island is poised for a tourism boom. In 2023, it welcomed over 2,100 curious travelers, and that number is expected to rise.
Emma Phillips, wife of the governor, emphasizes that St Helena isn’t your typical tourist destination. It caters to those with a thirst for adventure and a love for history, not just sunshine and beaches. Its remoteness (1,200 miles from the nearest continent) means unpredictable weather and occasional supply limitations, requiring a sense of adaptation from visitors.
However, the warm hospitality, rich history, and stunning natural beauty make St Helena an unforgettable experience. History buffs will find numerous sites dedicated to Napoleon, including his residences and original burial ground (though his remains were later moved to France).
Jamestown, the island’s capital, is a charming blend of old and new. Georgian-era buildings house local shops and grocery stores, while DVD rental shops offer a nostalgic nod to pre-internet times. For the adventurous, there’s Jacob’s Ladder, a 699-step path originally built for donkey-powered carts, offering a panoramic view of the town.
Two miles away sits Plantation House, a grand Georgian mansion built by the East India Company in 1792. Now the governor’s residence, it boasts royal portraits, period furniture, and even a chandelier from Napoleon’s final home.
