When Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, arrived in Colombia, the tour just not called as another royal trip. Their visit carried a deeper mission, focusing on important social issues and embracing the culture of Colombia. But the question is, why they choose Colombia? Here’s why this destination was a perfect choice for the Duke and Duchess:
- Rich Culture & History – From Cartagena’s colonial charm to Bogotá’s bustling art scene, Colombia is a melting pot of traditions and stories.
- Women Empowerment Initiatives – The country has been making strides in gender equality, and Meghan, a vocal advocate, naturally wanted to connect with local leaders.
- Youth & Education Focus – With a young and dynamic population, Colombia has been pushing education and tech initiatives, aligning with Harry and Meghan’s causes.
- Invictus Games Representation – Colombia recently entered the Invictus Games, a cause close to Harry’s heart, making it a meaningful stop.
Quick Look: Harry & Meghan’s Colombia Tour Stats
| Aspect | Details |
| Duration | 4 Days |
| Main Cities Visited | Bogotá, Cartagena, Cali |
| Key Focus Areas | Child Online Safety, Women Empowerment, Cultural Exchange |
| Languages Spoken by Royals | English, Spanish (some parts) |
| Tour Cost Controversy | £45,000 funded by Colombian taxpayers |
A Tour with a Deeper Purpose
Harry and Meghan kicked off their journey in Bogotá, where they met with students and educators to discuss mental health in education. They emphasized the importance of emotional well-being, something that resonates with Harry’s work in destigmatizing mental health conversations. A particularly touching moment came when the couple sat down with young leaders advocating for safer digital spaces for children.
In Cartagena, the couple embraced the city’s vibrant culture. They attended a local festival, danced to traditional cumbia music, and engaged with community leaders working to preserve Colombia’s Afro-Caribbean heritage. One of the most emotional moments of the trip was their visit to San Basilio de Palenque, the first free town for Africans in the Americas. Here, they listened to stories of resilience and the ongoing fight to preserve cultural traditions.
Cali, known for its lively music scene, offered Harry and Meghan a chance to connect with young artists. The couple participated in a forum discussing how music and the arts empower youth. Harry, known for his easygoing nature, even joined a drum circle, much to the excitement of the locals.
Language, Connection & Cultural Appreciation
One standout aspect of the visit was the couple’s effort to connect in Spanish. Harry surprised festivalgoers in Bogotá by delivering a heartfelt message in Spanish, earning cheers from the crowd. Meghan, too, engaged with locals in their native language, showcasing their commitment to breaking barriers and embracing cultures beyond their own.
The Cost Controversy: Worth It or Not?
While the visit was largely well-received, it wasn’t without criticism. Reports revealed that the Colombian government covered £45,000 in security and transport costs. Some critics called the tour unnecessary, branding it as a publicity stunt. However, many others argued that the attention the couple brought to crucial social issues was invaluable. The debate continues, but one thing is clear, their visit left a lasting impact on many Colombians.
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Final Thoughts
At its core, Harry and Meghan’s visit to Colombia was about connection, advocacy, and cultural appreciation. They went beyond the typical royal engagements, immersing themselves in the country’s rich history and pressing social issues. Whether you admire them or critique them, their approach to global issues is undeniably hands-on.
Their time in Colombia wasn’t just about photo ops, it was about listening, learning, and shining a light on causes that matter. As they continue their global advocacy, this trip stands as yet another example of their evolving role on the world stage.
So, what do you think? Was their visit impactful or just another headline? Let us know in the by Write For Us!