St Helena, a tiny volcanic island nestled in the vast South Atlantic, is no longer just a distant speck on the map. Once famous as the isolated prison of Napoleon Bonaparte, this British Overseas Territory is now poised to become a unique tourist destination.
Due to its extreme remoteness, roughly halfway between Africa and South America, St Helena has remained sparsely populated with a laid-back community of just over 4,000 residents, known as Saints. Until recently, reaching the island involved a grueling five-day boat journey. However, the arrival of weekly commercial flights and high-speed internet has opened doors for a new era of tourism.
A Destination for the Curious Explorer
St Helena isn’t your typical tourist haven. Emma Phillips, wife of the governor, highlights that the island attracts those with a genuine interest in exploration and history, rather than sunseekers.
The island’s unpredictable weather and occasional supply limitations, a result of its distance from the mainland, require a sense of adaptability from visitors. But for those with an open mind, St Helena promises warm hospitality, a rich past, and stunning natural beauty.
Napoleon’s Legacy and Beyond
History buffs will find themselves enthralled. St Helena boasts numerous heritage sites dedicated to Napoleon’s exile from 1815 until his death in 1821. Visitors can explore his former residences and original burial ground, even though his remains were later returned to France.
Jamestown: A Blend of Old and New
The island’s capital, Jamestown, offers a charming fusion of old-world British colonial architecture with some modern conveniences. Visitors can explore historical Georgian buildings housing shops and cafes, while remnants of a pre-internet era linger in the form of DVD rental stores.
For the adventurous, a climb up Jacob’s Ladder – a 699-step outdoor staircase overlooking the town – provides a panoramic view and a good workout. Originally built for donkey-powered carts, these steps now serve as a challenging yet rewarding climb.