The Controversy Surrounding Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s Alleged Portuguese Property Purchase

There has been growing anger among the people of Portugal after reports surfaced that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle may have purchased a $4.7 million vacation home on the country’s southern coast. The news has not only sparked outrage but also highlighted broader frustrations about celebrities and the ultra-wealthy taking over public lands, particularly beaches that locals have cherished for generations.

The alleged purchase, reported to be part of the Costa Terra Golf and Ocean Club, a luxury development about 81 miles south of Lisbon, has generated significant criticism. The compound, set to include 300 properties, is marketed as a high-end coastal retreat. Starting at a staggering 4.7 million USD (or 3.6 million pounds), the development has drawn attention from the rich and famous, including Harry and Meghan.

The outrage stems from concerns about restricted access to public beaches. Under Portuguese law, beaches are considered public property, yet wealthy buyers have been able to privatize certain stretches of sand. Locals are increasingly being pushed out of these areas, with some stretches now designated as private, in direct conflict with national laws. Many residents feel displaced, as long-standing public spaces are being absorbed by luxury developments, rendering them inaccessible to average citizens.

One local resident, Bradley McGinness, described the situation as “the worst thing to happen to the Portuguese coast.” He emphasized the greed of the situation, as locals are being deprived of land and access to the beaches they have enjoyed for generations. Another resident, Diana Correia, expressed her sadness over seeing such a beloved area turned into an exclusive, gated zone for the wealthy. She lamented how an area where families have created memories for years is now off-limits due to the new developments.

This issue is not unique to Portugal. Other coastal areas, like Puerto Rico and parts of the U.S., have experienced similar situations where wealthy individuals, drawn by tax incentives or prime real estate opportunities, have purchased beachfront properties and subsequently restricted public access. In Puerto Rico, this phenomenon has led to growing activism to protect public beaches and ensure that they remain accessible to locals.

For Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, who have long promoted charitable efforts and doing good for communities, the purchase of such an extravagant vacation home has drawn sharp criticism. Critics argue that the couple, who already own a luxurious property in California, could have used their wealth for more altruistic purposes instead of acquiring another sprawling estate.

Moreover, some speculate that the purchase might be tied to securing a “Golden Visa,” which would grant them visa-free access to European Schengen countries. This move has further fueled public frustration, as it seems to prioritize personal luxury over the couple’s stated goals of making a positive impact in the world.

While the purchase remains a rumor, the backlash underscores a broader issue: the increasing privatization of public lands by the wealthy, which is displacing local communities. As more details emerge, the controversy surrounding the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s potential new home continues to stoke debates about wealth, privilege, and the erosion of public spaces.