Meghan Markle's Netflix cooking series has provided a significant boost to tourism in Montecito, despite facing criticism.
New research reveals the show has sparked considerable interest in the area where the Duke and Duchess of Sussex reside with their two children.
According to Samuel Jefferies, Senior Growth Marketing Manager at Bókun, Montecito has seen 424,000 online searches in the past month following the programme's release.
The series wasn't filmed at the couple's own home but at another property in the same exclusive neighbourhood.
Meghan Markle's Netflix cooking series has provided a significant boost to tourism in Montecito, despite facing criticism
GETTYThe surge in interest extends to accommodation, with searches for 'Montecito hotels' increasing by a remarkable 354 per cent over the past month.
Wellness tourism has also benefited from the Netflix show's influence.
Searches for 'wellness retreat California' have risen by 29 per cent, suggesting viewers are inspired by the lifestyle portrayed in the series.
The unexpected tourism boost comes despite the mixed reception to Markle's programme, which showcases the affluent coastal community the Sussexes now call home.
The show has also sparked renewed interest in culinary activities featured in the series
PAThe show has also sparked renewed interest in culinary activities featured in the series.
Samuel Jefferies at Bókun noted: "We have seen a surge of interest in the activities Meghan takes part in in her new series, with searches for 'family cooking classes' surging by 31 per cent and 'beginners cooking classes' by 25 per cent in the past month alone."
Beekeeping, showcased in the first episode, has particularly captured viewers' attention.
Jefferies added: "198,000 people searched for 'beekeeping' in the past month, increasing by 22 per cent."
LATEST ROYAL NEWS:
Meghan Markle has since announced a second series of 'With Love, Meghan', which will air later this yearNetflixThe series emphasises homegrown foods and locally sourced ingredients.
Following the success of the first season, Netflix has confirmed a second instalment of Meghan's cooking series.
The streaming giant made the announcement earlier this month after the initial episodes were released.
No specific release date has yet been announced for when the second season will appear on screens.
