Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's so-called "Royal tour" of Colombia has rapidly devolved into a farcical display of faux diplomacy and entitlement.
Initially heralded with significant fanfare, this unofficial visit is reportedly taking place at the invitation of Colombia's Vice President, Francia Márquez. However, as the Sussexes' journey unfolds, it is becoming increasingly apparent that this so-called diplomatic mission is less about authentic engagement and more about crafting and manipulating their Royal image.
Vice President Márquez's announcement of the visit came with grandiose declarations, suggesting that the Duke and Duchess would be gracing Bogotá, Cartagena, and Medellín with their presence. It appears that Colombia has been selected as the setting for the Sussexes' latest theatrical demonstration of Royal duties, following their previous diplomatic endeavor in Nigeria. Royal author and Meghan critic Angela Levin, known for her outspoken views on the Sussexes' controversial choices, has been vocal in her criticism of the decision to visit Colombia.
Levin contends that Harry's reluctance to return to the UK due to purported safety concerns is nothing more than a charade. She argues that Harry’s heightened concerns about security in the UK seem laughable when juxtaposed with their choice to travel to Colombia, a country she deems fraught with its own security challenges and ransom risks.
Levin, who has long accused the Sussexes of attempting to manipulate King Charles, reiterated her point by highlighting the absurdity of their travel decisions. She remarked that the situation is indeed ridiculous and supports her longstanding assertion that the Sussexes are attempting to influence the King. Levin suggests that Harry's insistence on top-tier security is merely a smokescreen for his refusal to accept anything less than the best—an attitude the Sussexes appear to have carried over to their Colombian visit.
Adding to the controversy, rumors have emerged that the Colombian government has rejected the Sussexes' request for five-star luxury accommodations. Despite their apparent belief that their Royal status entitles them to the highest level of opulence, the Colombian government has reportedly opted to adhere to standard hospitality practices. This refusal has caused a stir within Royal circles and ignited public debate regarding the couple’s expectations. Meghan Markle, notorious for her extravagant tastes, is no stranger to controversy. Her penchant for luxury, from designer wardrobes to private jets, has consistently drawn criticism. This latest hiccup in Colombia only serves to underscore a growing list of scandals that highlight her perceived disconnect from the realities faced by the average person.
The ongoing hotel saga in Colombia is yet another glaring example of Meghan's ostentatious lifestyle. During her tenure as a working Royal, Meghan was frequently scrutinized for her lavish fashion choices and preference for private flights, fueling accusations of her detachment from everyday concerns. As the debate over the Colombian hotel debacle continues, it remains uncertain how Meghan and Harry will respond.
Speculation abounds that the couple might even consider canceling their trip rather than compromise on their accommodation preferences. Alternatively, some believe they may grudgingly accept the Colombian government’s decision and attempt to salvage their visit with some semblance of grace. This entire episode has further accentuated the ongoing tensions between the Sussexes and public perceptions of their Royal status. As Harry and Meghan navigate their post-Royal lives, their efforts to maintain a Royal image amidst their extravagant lifestyle are likely to attract continued scrutiny and criticism.
