The weekend of coronation events starting May 6 will bring a cash infusion to central London businesses, especially hotels, pubs and restaurants, but it won't do much for U.K. residents struggling with an economy on the precipice of recession and a cost-of-living crisis that has stirred months of disruptive strikes by workers seeking pay hikes.
Coronation plates and cups are displayed for sale in a gift shop in London, Monday, April 24, 2023. The May 6 coronation is luring royal fans and far-flung visitors fascinated by the ceremonial spectacle — and drama — of the monarchy and eager to experience a piece of British history. Tour companies, shops and restaurants are rolling out the red carpet, whether it's a decked-out bus tour of London's top sights boasting high tea or merchandise running from regal to kitschy.
For visitors looking to splash out, hotels across London are touting coronation-themed packages, menus and decor. "So there's a lot of love and a lot of interest. And we are sold out already, which is very encouraging," he said. On the way, they sipped tea -- using cupholders to prevent spills -- and snacked on finger sandwiches and pastries like the "royal scone" from a menu a former royal butler curated for tour operator Brigit's Bakery.
Officials have high hopes that the coronation will provide a vital boost to the country's tourism industry, which is still reeling from two years of COVID-19 shutdowns. The U.K. received some 29.7 million visits last year, still nearly a third below 2019. "We can see a 10% increase in flight bookings through May from the America market," she said. "The big question mark is, of course, China, which was our second-most-valuable market and still not coming back quite in the numbers we would like to see."Tax revenue will get a boost from extra retail spending for parties nationwide, including booze sales that have hefty alcohol duties. Pubs will be allowed to stay open two hours longer May 5-6.
Philippines Latest News, Philippines Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
These are the famous acts performing at King Charles' coronationKing Charles’ coronation is set to be one heck of a musical party.
Read more »
Canada reveals celebration plans for King Charles III's coronationCanada's plans to commemorate King Charles III's coronation on May 6 will include musical performances by Indigenous artists and a gun salute, Canadian Heritage revealed on Monday.
Read more »
Oscar-nominated composer Patrick Doyle writes march for King Charles’s coronationDoyle says Charles has been ‘extremely generous’ at remaining hands-off and trusting everyone to do their job
Read more »
Here's how Canada plans to celebrate King Charles III's coronationCanada's plans to commemorate King Charles III's coronation on May 6 will include a musical performance by Algonquin artists and a gun salute, Canadian Heritage revealed on Monday.
Read more »
Canada reveals local coronation plans but stays silent on official delegationAttendance of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau remains an official question mark as coronation takes place during the 2023 Liberal national convention
Read more »
Most Canadians don't support King Charles or Camilla, poll findsWill you be tuning into King Charles's coronation?
Read more »