Amid a wave of backlash, influencer and former Made in Chelsea star Kimberley Garner has addressed her choice to post photos from Miami beaches while much of the UK remains under lockdown. Garner, who traveled to her Miami home after a quarantine period in Barbados, has been criticized by both public officials and social media users for seemingly ignoring travel restrictions and lockdown protocols.
#1. Defending Her Content as “Light Entertainment”
In a statement to The Telegraph, Garner explained that she hopes her posts bring positivity to her followers, describing them as “a bit of light entertainment.” She emphasized that her photos are not intended to flaunt her situation but rather to provide some visual relief through “colorful pictures of the beach, bright sunshine, and the bikinis that I design.”
Garner added, “I don’t want to offend anyone or make them feel that I’m trying to show off.” She highlighted that her decision to continue posting came after careful consideration, especially given the ongoing challenges people in lockdown are facing.
#2. Following Travel Protocols
According to Garner, she is doing her best to abide by the travel restrictions. She noted that she left the UK in December, first quarantining for two weeks in Barbados to comply with US entry requirements before moving on to her Miami property. In an Instagram post, she assured followers that she is “being really safe and following the UK’s restrictions even though I’m in America.” Garner also expressed empathy for those enduring the UK lockdown, encouraging people to “be brave” and “be kind to each other.”
#3. Government Reaction to Influencers Abroad
The UK’s Home Secretary Priti Patel recently condemned non-essential travel, targeting celebrities and influencers who continue to post from sunny destinations. Patel emphasized that “going on holiday was not an exemption” under the current rules, warning that anyone without a valid reason for travel could be fined and sent home. As part of the UK’s increased travel restrictions, a “red list” has been implemented, banning direct flights from countries including the UAE, Portugal, and Seychelles, among others.
#4. Garner’s Message Amidst Criticism
Despite the mounting criticism, Garner has stayed firm in her decision to share her content, hoping it brings positivity to her audience. “I am very grateful to be in the sun and outdoors,” she shared, “but I’m also aware of the situation back home, and I want people to know I’m thinking of them.”
