(CMR) Premier of Nevis Mark Brantley has reminded visitors to the island that all beaches are public property and open to residents after a tourist dubbed “Karen” by local media threatened to call police on a group of children.
“I wish to be clear that ALL beaches on the island of Nevis are public property and therefore free for the use and enjoyment of all members of the public,” Mr. Brantley stated.
He made the statement following a viral video that showed the woman on vacation in St Kitts and Nevis lying down on the beach in protest to stop children training for a relay race on Saturday, 9 April.
“Those who visit our island or choose to live on our island are welcomed and will experience no warmer or more genuine hospitality anywhere else in the world. I wish to be pellucid; however, that our generous hospitality must not be abused,” the premier stated.
He added, “The behavior exhibited on the videos is unacceptable and offensive and must be condemned unreservedly. I gather that the woman involved and her spouse have apologized for her actions to the coaches, parents and students. I have nevertheless asked the Ministry of Education to investigate and report further on the incident.”
Mr. Brantley said he hoped there would not be a repeat of such behavior on Nevis by anyone.
Several residents have since expressed disgust at the woman's behavior towards the children.
“This is embarrassing. Some people forget that they are a guest in the country and their stay can be shortened at any time,” one person wrote on social media.
Another said, “I'm so infuriated, I have no words. I just can't stand this entitled, privileged nonsense. Just stop it now.”
- Fascinated
- Happy
- Sad
- Angry
- Bored
- Afraid