Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s decision to relocate to Portugal has not generated the kind of buzz one might expect from the arrival of royalty. While the couple reportedly spent over four million euros (₹ 36.5 crore) on a property in one of the region’s exclusive resorts, locals are, frankly, unfazed.
This nonchalant attitude stems from the fact that the area has become a haven for the wealthy and famous in recent years. As one local estate agent, with decades of experience in Alentejo, Portugal, explained, American A-listers have been snapping up homes in the area, making the Sussexes’ arrival just another addition to the list of high-profile residents.
The agent, speaking anonymously to The Mail, shared that the locals are accustomed to seeing celebrities and are unlikely to be overly impressed by the arrival of the Duke and Duchess. “We have much richer and much more famous people buying here for sure,” the agent said. “I think they will have zero impact, to be honest. If someone like Jeff Bezos bought here then, yes, there could be some impact – but not Harry and Meghan.”
This sentiment is echoed by local business owners, who have observed a noticeable divide between the wealthy residents of the gated estates and the local community. In the nearby village of Melides, locals gather in the town square and family-run cafes to enjoy simple pleasures like playing cards and sharing a drink. One seafood restaurant owner even found the idea of British royalty moving to the area amusing.
The wealthy resort residents, on the other hand, tend to keep to themselves, rarely mingling with the locals. According to a local businessman, the primary allure of the region for A-listers is the privacy it offers. They are drawn to the area for its secluded beauty and the chance to escape the spotlight, further reinforcing the sense of detachment from the everyday lives of the locals.
While the arrival of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle has not caused a stir in the local community, it remains to be seen if their presence will have any long-term impact on the region. Only time will tell if the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will be able to bridge the gap between the exclusive world they inhabit and the everyday lives of the people who call this part of Portugal home.