Discover The Hidden Beauty of St. Helena in the Atlantic Ocean 2023
St. Helena is a remote (like a dot) island located between the west of Angola in the African Continent, East of Brazil in the South American Continent, and due South of Liberia and Ivory Coast.
The intersections of these three lines of positions will point approximately towards Saint Helena which is almost in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.
Saint Helena is part of the British Overseas Territory of Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha.
The island is considered the hidden beauty of the Atlantic Ocean, and one of the most remote inhabited islands in the world.
It has a population of over 6,000 people who are primarily engaged in fishing and farming. The island is also known for its wildlife, including the Tristan albatross and the Tristan thrush.
As travel restrictions begin to ease, St. Helena is poised to become an attraction to travelers and is now considered the top searched popular destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts looking to experience life in one of the world’s most remote places.
What Tourist Attractions to Discover in St. Helena?
The island of St Helena is home to a variety of unique and historical attractions like landmarks, including the remains of Napoleon’s exile home in Longwood House, and the beautiful St. James’ Church, which dates back to the 17th century. The island is also known for its spectacular natural landscapes, including the volcanic peaks of Diana’s Peak and the rugged cliffs of Lot’s Wife.
The St. Helena National Trust offers a variety of walking trails and guided tours, which allow tourists to explore the island’s diverse ecosystems and learn about its unique flora and fauna. Visitors can also take a trip to the island’s capital, Jamestown, which is home to a number of interesting museums, shops, and restaurants.
The island is also a birdwatcher paradise, from the St Helena Plover to the Wirebird, which is the national bird of St Helena.
How to Get to St. Helena?
There are 3 ways to get to St Helena from other parts of the world:
By Air: The most convenient way to get to St Helena is by taking a flight from Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, South Africa to St Helena Airport. You’ll probably look for a flight connection from your location to the above-mentioned airport. There is one weekly flight operated by SA Airlink and it is only on Saturday. It’s a 5 hours flight.
By Ship: The RMS St Helena is a UK cargo vessel and passenger ship that provides regular service between Cape Town, South Africa, and St Helena. The voyage takes approximately five days and is an opportunity to experience a traditional sea journey.
Yacht: Another option is to sail to the island by private yacht. The island does not have a marina but visitors can anchor their boats in James Bay or Rupert’s Bay which is located North Northwest of the Island. Keep in mind that the island is quite remote and access is limited, so it’s important to plan your trip well in advance and be prepared for any potential changes in travel restrictions. We recommend going there with complete travel accessories depending on your planned activities on the Island.
What language do they speak in St. Helena?
The official language of St. Helena is English. The island is a British Overseas Territory and has been under British rule since the early 1700s. The majority of the population speaks English as their first language, and it is the language of instruction in schools and the primary language used in government and business. However, some of the population may also speak a Creole language, known as Saint Helenian Creole, which is a mix of English, African, and Portuguese influences.
What Currency do they use in St Helena?
The currency used in St. Helena is Saint Helena Pound (SHP). Saint Helena Pound is pegged to the British Pound (GBP) at a rate of 1:1 and both currencies are accepted on the island. The Saint Helena pound is issued by the Saint Helena Government and is divided into 100 pence. Banknotes and coins are in circulation and denominations include 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50-pence coins and 1, 5, 10, and 20-pound notes.
Some foreign currencies can be exchanged on the island but the availability may vary, it’s recommended to check with banks or currency exchange offices before your trip. Credit and debit cards are accepted in some places but it’s recommended to carry cash as well.
What Airport to search when booking a flight to St Helena?
The international airport of St. Helena is St. Helena Airport (HLE). It is located on the east to northeastern side of the island, about 10 miles from the capital city of Jamestown. The airport has a single runway of 1,950 meters (6,398 ft) and is served by a weekly flight operated by SA Airlink from Johannesburg, South Africa. The airport was officially opened in 2017 and it is considered a major milestone for the island in terms of economic development and accessibility. The airport’s opening allows for more convenient travel to the island and increased tourism, which is a significant source of income for the local economy.
Where to Stay on St. Helena Island?
The Mantis St Helena Hotel combines a restored historic building with a new contemporary wing, seamlessly integrating with the cityscape of Jamestown. The hotel offers wheelchair-friendly accommodations, with rooms featuring adapted showers and inter-leading options. The bar, restaurant, and terrace are also wheelchair-accessible.
The hotel welcomes guests of all ages, making it a great choice for families. There are a total of 22 contemporary rooms, 5 heritage suites, and 3 heritage rooms available for guests to choose from. You can check the latest deals and promotions directly from the hotel or get instant access through booking trips search engine.
Range of Adventures in St. Helena
St Helena offers a wide range of activities and experiences for vacationers looking for leisure and relaxation. Some of the options include:
Hiking and Outdoor Activities: The island offers a variety of hiking trails and guided walks, which allow visitors to explore the island’s diverse ecosystems and learn about its unique flora and fauna. Visitors can hike to the top of the volcanic peaks of Diana’s Peak (818 meters), or take a guided walk along the rugged cliffs of Lot’s Wife, and enjoy stunning views from different points.
Local Culture and History: Visitors can explore the island’s rich history and culture by visiting historic landmarks such as the remains of Napoleon’s exile home, Longwood House, and the
beautiful St. James’ Church, which dates back to the 17th century.
Relaxation: St. Helena offers many options to relax and unwind, such as spas, yoga and meditation classes, and hot springs. Visitors can also take advantage of the peacefulness and natural beauty of the island to simply relax and enjoy the scenery.
Bird Watching: The island is a birdwatcher paradise, from the St Helena Plover to the Wirebird, which is the national bird of St Helena. Tourists can take guided tours to see these birds in their natural habitats.
Entry Requirements for Travelers Going to St Helena?
Travelers visiting St Helena will need to meet certain entry requirements in order to enter the island. These requirements may vary depending on the
traveler’s country of origin and current COVID-19 situation and are subject to change without notice. It is important to check the latest information and requirements before planning your trip.
Travel documents: All travelers will need a valid passport and a return or onward ticket. You will also need to fill out a passenger locator form and a health declaration form prior to arrival. COVID-19 measures: St Helena has implemented strict COVID-19 measures to protect the health and safety of its residents and visitors. All travelers will need to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure and may be subject to quarantine and testing upon arrival. (Confirm with your hotel provider about this implementation).
Health insurance: Visitors are required to have adequate health insurance to cover any medical expenses during their stay.
Things to Remember for Vacationers Going to St Helena
When traveling to St Helena, it is important to consider safety and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are a few recommendations for vacationers:
Follow the laws and regulations: Familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations, including those related to COVID-19 and quarantine requirements, and follow them closely.
Get Travel Insurance: It is recommended that you get travel insurance before your trip, to cover any unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other potential issues.
Be Prepared for Remote Location: St Helena is a remote island, and it’s important to be prepared for the lack of amenities and infrastructure that one may find in more developed areas.
Consider packing essential travel accessories which you can check from our last post.
Be aware of wildlife: The island has diverse wildlife that includes unique species, it’s important to be aware of the fauna and respect it.
Be aware of the terrain: The island has varied terrain, with steep cliffs, rocky beaches, and uneven ground.
It’s important to wear appropriate footwear and be aware of your surroundings when hiking or exploring the island.
Respect the culture and tradition: St Helena is an island with a rich culture and tradition, it’s important to be respectful of the local customs and way of life.
Be aware of the weather: The island can experience strong winds and heavy rains, and it’s important to be prepared for any change in weather.
It’s always recommended to check the weather forecast before going out and pack accordingly.
By following these recommendations, vacationers can enjoy a safe and memorable trip to St Helena.
Conclusion
Saint Helena is a unique and breathtaking destination that offers visitors a chance to experience one of the most remote places in the world.
From its natural landscapes to its rich culture and history, the island is really the hidden gem in the Atlantic Ocean, and it has something very unique to offer for every type of traveler.
St. Helena Island is a perfect place for those looking for adventure, relaxation, and a chance to reconnect with nature.
The island’s people are friendly and welcoming and will make you feel at home.
Be prepared for the limited amenities and infrastructure, but with proper planning, your trip to St Helena will be an unforgettable experience.
With the opening of the airport on 20 October 2021, the island has become more accessible and with the ongoing vaccination campaign, the island will become a safer place to travel.
Whether you’re looking for a unique adventure, or simply a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, St Helena is the perfect destination.
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