French national Heyse Celine, who had been reported missing after venturing into the Grand Etang Forest reserve area, has been successfully rescued by local authorities.
The 51-year-old tourist, a passenger on the Costa Fortuna cruise ship that docked in Grenada on Monday, went missing two days ago after attempting to explore the lush but challenging terrain of the Grand Etang Forest without a guide.
Mathias Dorel, the French Honorary Consul in Grenada, provided insights into the incident, stating that Celine took a bus to Grand Etang and sought directions to a waterfall.
Unfortunately, she was unable to locate the waterfall and became disoriented during her return journey. Undeterred, she persisted in finding her way out, ultimately getting lost in the dense forest.
It wasn’t until the next day that her daughter in France received a distress call, initiating a series of actions that involved the cruise line, local police, and Consul Dorel.
“She slept two nights in the mountains. The police found her on Wednesday morning, and she was taken to the hospital.
She has cuts and bruises and is exhausted, but we expect that she will be fine,” said Dorel, emphasizing the resilience and determination displayed by Celine during her unexpected ordeal. Arrangements are underway to facilitate her return to France, with a target set for the weekend.
The Grenadian police had issued a missing person report without disclosing specific details of the circumstances surrounding Celine’s disappearance, only indicating that she entered the island on December 18 and last communicated with a friend that day.
Concerned about her well-being, authorities urged the collaboration of hotel owners, Airbnb hosts, and apartment managers in the search efforts.
The successful rescue brings relief to friends, family, and the local community, highlighting the importance of adhering to safety guidelines when exploring unfamiliar terrains.
The Grand Etang Forest reserve, nestled within the crater of an extinct volcano, offers breathtaking scenery but demands respect for its challenging landscape.
As news of Celine’s rescue spreads, it reminds travellers to prioritize safety, especially when venturing into natural reserves.
The incident also underscores the collaborative efforts of local authorities, the French Consulate, and the community in ensuring visitors’ well-being in Grenada.
In the wake of this dramatic episode, Grenada reaffirms its commitment to the safety of tourists, urging all visitors to take necessary precautions and seek guidance when exploring the island’s diverse landscapes.
