OFF THE WALL ST HELENA
St Helena is...
Visa: UK visitors do need a visa to visit the island. Immigration requires that all visitors hold a valid passport, return tickets and pre-booked accommodation. A Visitor’s Pass (fees vary depending on length of stay) will be issued upon landing for all visitors aged 12 years or older who disembark at St Helena.
Health: All visitors must be covered by medical insurance, proof of which must be produced on arrival.
Currency: The local currency is the St Helena Pound, which tracks the British Pound Sterling.
Top Tip: Mobile phones do not work on St Helena. International phone cards can be purchased on island, with Internet and WiFi hotspots available.
BY GEMMA GEORGE Marketing and Research Executive, ST Helena Tourist Board
...an understated British outcrop, deep in the South Atlantic Ocean. . St Helena may be one of the remotest places on Earth but it is also one of the most extraordinary – and 'extraordinary' is the theme of the island's new 'branding', unveiled as part of a wider investment in tourism to raise the profile of this secluded isle. Situated 1,500 miles from Cape Town,
currently the only means of getting to St Helena is by sea. It is served by one of the last Royal Mail
Ship’s – the RMS St Helena – a unique 128-berth passenger/cargo vessel. But the Island’s first airport is in the planning and could be operational within the next five years. In anticipation, St Helena is making significant developments to its tourism offering, to improve infrastructure, enhance the tourism experience, and ultimately increase the number of visitors. “It is a place of unique character and unspoilt beauty. Its spectacular scenery, centuries-old military fortifications and colonial buildings make it perfect to explore,” said Janet Shankland, sales and marketing executive St. Helena Tourism. “There are exciting times ahead and the
St Helena landscapes and St James, the characteristic island capital
promotion of St Helena is gathering momentum in the UK. It’s vital that we put this destination on the map for UK visitors and provide essential destination information to agents and tour operators,” added Shankland. St Helena is perhaps best known as the
place of Napoleon’s exile, and the Island’s rich history and heritage remain a key focus. Visitors can view exhibits such as his death mask, portraits and original furniture at the French General’s former residence, Longwood House, arguably the best Napoleonic museum in the world. His Tomb and The Briars, Napoleon’s first residence on St Helena, are both well maintained by the French Government. The backdrop is of a rugged volcanic
coastline and lush green interior, home to cloud forests and exotic flora and fauna, making it a draw for walkers, birdwatchers (who come to spot the endemic Wirebird) and intrepid visitors looking to go somewhere off the beaten track. A new ‘Tourism Passport’ is in the pipeline, providing entry to island attractions, with proceeds going towards the maintenance of the heritage attractions. Recently, the restored High Knoll Fort re-opened, along with a new trail to the Heart Shaped Waterfall.
Where To Book It RMS ST HELENA - 020 7575 6480
www.rms-st-helena.com The 128-berth RMS St Helena is currently the only regular means of reaching the island. Departing from Cape Town an 18-day Explorer Voyage includes eight nights on St Helena. Available through Andrew Weir Shipping, packages include all meals but not International flights.
ST HELENA Top Selling Tips...
• Longwood House – arguably the most authentic Napoleonic museum in the world
• Diana’s Peak – The highest point of the island affording breathtaking, 360° views
• The Museum of St Helena – explore St Helena’s fascinating past and present
• Jacob’s Ladder – Conquer the 900ft-high, 699 step Jacob’s Ladder, in the island’s capital, Jamestown. It was built in 1829
• The Dolphin Tour – see birds, dolphins and the military forts around the coast
ST HELENA TOURISM
enquiries@tourism.gov.sh www.sthelenatourism.com Tailor-made itineraries, accommodation, individual tours, island programmes and expert local guides can be provided by the local tourist office. Weekly sightseeing and activity packages are available from £360 per week; B&B double rooms from £50pn and homestays from £20pn.
www.sellinglonghaul.com • April 2011 21
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