Montecito Residents Divided Over Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s Reception

Residents of Montecito have expressed mixed feelings towards Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, with some claiming that the royal couple is not universally revered and may come off as having an attitude.

Katie, a retired university lecturer, shared her observations, stating that the Sussexes' decision to settle in the celebrity-filled neighborhood of Montecito has left many locals divided.

She mentioned that while some view their presence as intriguing, others perceive them as having a certain demeanor that is not universally admired.

Katie disclosed that she ventured up the roads where the Sussex family resides, highlighting the curiosity among the area's residents regarding their famous royal neighbors.

She emphasized that people are genuinely interested in observing the couple's activities and clarified that their intentions are not driven by any ill will.

Although Katie admitted to driving by the street where the Sussexes live, she made it clear that she did not stop or engage in any intrusive behavior.

On the contrary, Judy, who was walking alongside Katie, expressed her lack of interest in the Sussexes as public figures.

She mentioned that while she knows individuals who are curious about the couple's actions, she personally does not feel compelled to delve deeper into their lives.

Dave Kannerick, a sports sales representative in Santa Barbara town, shared his perspective, noting that he has not heard much about Harry and Meghan's local engagements.

He described the Duke and Duchess as keeping a low profile and blending in with the mellow atmosphere of the town.

Recent reports have hinted at the possibility of Harry and Meghan considering a relocation from Montecito, a neighborhood renowned for housing celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow, Orlando Bloom, and Ariana Grande.

This potential move has sparked concerns among residents of Hope Ranch, California, who fear the disruptions that the couple's presence might bring to their tranquil community.

Sources linked to the Homeowners Association at Hope Ranch revealed apprehensions about the attention and controversies that could accompany the Sussexes.

The issue of increased traffic due to Harry and Meghan's potential relocation has raised alarms among Hope Ranch residents, given the already existing traffic challenges in Santa Barbara.

The narrow and winding roads in the area pose safety risks, especially with the anticipated influx of paparazzi seeking to capture moments of the royal couple.

Tina Brown, a royal biographer, shed light on the dynamics surrounding Harry and Meghan's lifestyle shift, emphasizing the contrast between their previous status and their current circumstances in Montecito.

Brown highlighted the challenges faced by the couple in navigating their newfound wealth and fame, suggesting that Harry's upcoming book deal could further complicate their situation.

She expressed doubts about the book's publication, hinting at Harry's internal struggles regarding the potential repercussions of revealing intimate details about his royal experiences.

As speculations and uncertainties loom over Harry and Meghan's future, the residents of Montecito and Hope Ranch remain attentive to the evolving narrative surrounding the high-profile couple.