Royalty Online

[VIDEO] Exiled Greek Royal Family talk about royalty in Europe

2012-01-19T08:43:00.000+01:00

[Denmark] Queen Margrethe II Celebrates 40 Years on The Throne - City Hall Reception

2012-01-19T02:40:00.000+01:00

King Carl XVI Gustaf, cousin of the Queen

All photos from Zimbio

The Royal Cartoons - Spanish Edition 2 - (un)Hidden Desires

2012-01-19T02:09:00.000+01:00

Queen Beatrix, Prince Willem-Alexander & Princess Maxima in Middle-East trip to UAE & Oman

2012-01-15T20:00:00.000+01:00

This caption stirred a row in the Netherlands, for the fact the Queen and Princess Maxima used veils in a sacred place. No comments.

On January 8th, Queen Beatrix accompanied by Crown Prince Willem-Alexander and his wife, Princess Máxima, and a delegation of business leaders visited the UAE, invited by President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. This was the Queen’s fiftieth state visit since she was crowned in 1980.

On January 10th, the Queen and her entourage traveled on to Oman at the invitation of Sultan Qaboos. A prior state visit, planned in March, was called off in view of the ongoing pro-democracy demonstrations and the violent crackdown by Oman’s authorities. The Dutch parliament cancelled the state visit after two demonstrators died in clashes with Omani security forces in February. Dutch MPs did not want the state visit to be seen as endorsing the regime. In a surprise move, Queen Beatrix travelled to Oman after all, arguing her tip had been downgraded to a private visit.

Sultan Qaboos is Oman’s head of state, prime minister, defence minister, foreign minister and the head of the armed forces. The country has no legal political parties.

The UAE is a federation of seven absolute monarchies. The Federal National Council consists of 40 members drawn from all the emirates. Half are appointed by the emirates’ rulers, and the other half are indirectly elected to serve two-year terms.The first indirect elections took place in 2006.

source of the article

source of the photos

Young royal (and almost) princely couples we like

2012-01-09T03:28:00.000+01:00

Beatrice Borromeo & Pierre Casiraghi, dating since 2008. They met in Italy.

Dave Clark & Princess Beatrice.

Charlotte Casiraghi and Alex Dellal, a London art dealer.

Chris O'Neill & Princess Madeleine of Sweden

Tatiana Santo Domingo & Andrea Casiraghi. They met at school, in Paris.

The Royal Cartoons - British Edition - HRH The Duchess of Cambridge's 30th birthday

2012-01-09T02:58:00.000+01:00

[Denmark] Happy (1st) birthday to Prince Vincent & Princess Josephine!

2012-01-08T21:07:00.001+01:00

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Who do you think Crown Princess Victoria will pick as Godparents to her first child?

2012-01-04T00:47:00.003+01:00

Crown Princess Victoria with her husband, Prince Daniel.

Sometimes, I use my twitter account to ask my fellow royal watchers and enthusiasts a few questions that could be more of guessing games (as Marcia Tracy would suggest).

My question tonight was related to Crown Princess Victoria: she is best known as Godmother of Europe as she has this role with Ingrid Alexandra of Norway, Amalia of the Netherlands, Eléonore of Belgium and Christian of Denmark. So, who will she and Daniel pick as Godparents to her child?

As Royalty in the News cited, and I quote: it's "amazing how Crown Princess Victoria and Queen Victoria have motherly links to Europe. Victoria of UK was Mother of Europe, Crown Princess Victoria the godmother". That is so true. The biggest highlight on how Crown Princess Victoria takes her role as godmother very personally, she picked them (except very wee Princess Eleonore) as her bridesmaids and pageboys at her wedding, on June 19th, 2010.

As Order of Splendor reminded me, in Sweden, you cannot have more than 4 godparents - fine for me, as I do have 4 godparents, but this numbers usually burst for other royal and princely houses. Was is interesting though is that her father, King Carl XVI Gustaf's godparents were Crown Prince Frederick of Denmark, Crown Princess Ingrid of Denmark, Crown Prince Olav of Norway, Crown Princess Juliana of the Netherlands, King Gustaf V of Sweden, Prince Friedrich Josias of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, Crown Prince Gustaf Adolf of Sweden, Crown Princess Louise of Sweden, Count Folke Bernadotte af Wisborg, and the Countess Maria Bernadotte af Wisborg. If my count is right, he had 10! Would be interesting to know why this changed. I asked myself if it was because Victoria was not Crown Princess at birth (her brother was), but even Prince Carl Philip only had 4 godparents.

Victoria's godparents are King Harald V of Norway, her maternal uncle, Ralf Sommerlath, Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands, and her aunt Princess Désirée, Baroness Silfverschiöld.

In light of all this, my first choice would go to: Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark, Crown Prince Haakon, Princess Madeleine and Princess Maxima of the Netherlands.

But, I tend to forget: that baby also has a father, so maybe it will be half royal, half Westling.

Why would I choose those two Crown Princes? Both of them, with Victoria, were raised together. The Scandinavian Royal Houses (Norway, Sweden, Denmark) have a close bond, mostly due to geographical proximity, language (I know that there are differences, but the 3 languages are close, could not say the same if we put Finnish in the mix) and family ties. A few years ago, the 3 heirs travelled together, you can watch the video here.

Here are a few answers that popped up on twitter: many confirmed my first intuition by including Frederik and Haakon, like Malaya. Gert-Jan de Wit vouches for Prince Willem-Alexander of Oranje. Marcia Tracy has her bet on, as well as Fred and Haakon, on Prince Albert and Princess Charlene of Monaco. Why not?

Order of Splendor goes for both of Victoria's siblings (Carl Philip and Madeleine) and Haakon and Mette-Marit. This combination could happen, living Crown Princess Victoria to choose Frederik and Mary for her second child. Or vice-versa.

Cheryl Anderson Brown suggested that "probably no catholic godparents" and maybe that would discard Monaco.

The two most sensible and close-to-mine answers I received were from Spanish Royals & Sasha Ackler: Fred, Haakon, Madeleine and Anna Westling, Daniel's sister. This seems like a good fit.

Marie Elizabeth was spot on when she replied "no one from the British Royal Family" which I completely agree with, as there does not seem to be a close relationship between the Swedish House and the British one.

When Janet Webb & The Countess of Grantham answered they would see the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge being invited to be the Godparents, I did not picture that happening. Of course, it could, but if there is any bond to be created between Prince William and Princess Victoria, it would be when they are both heirs or both regents. Not before.

Let's come back to this post in 4/5 months, once the baby (a girl? a boy?) is born and being actually christened so that we reveal who was right or wrong!

All links are towards twitter accounts. If you want me to take them out of this post, just... tweet me and I will do it straight away!

But who is Prince Philippe? Philip? Felipe? Filip? Philipp? Philippos?

2012-01-02T02:42:00.000+01:00

It might have happened to you - or not, if you are an amazing royal watcher or you just do not care that much - to stumble into a "Prince Philippe did this..." and if you have no mention of the City/Country of action, you don't know exactly who it is. In Italy, France, Germany, The Netherlands, the name "Philip" was massively used as a regal name, such as George, Edward, John, Carl, Albert and so on. The major difference resides in the spelling according to the country. But if you read Spanish newspapers, you might have noticed that they "translate" names. No Queen Elizabeth II there, they call her "Isabel II". Yeah...

So, back at the Philips! First, top right, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, the consort of Queen Elisabeth before-mentioned. Bottom right, Felipe, the Prince of Asturias, heir apparent to the Spanish throne. Bottom left, Prince Philippe, the Duke of Brabant, future King of the Belgians. And top left, he is not really (just a) Philip, but Carl Philip, brother of Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden and always a good reason to fit in a montage.

Second, from non-reigning houses, we have on top left Prince Philippos of Greece and Denmark, son of former King Constantine and Queen Anne-Marie of Greece. Top right, Philipp, prince of Hohenlohe-Langenburg, bottom right Prince Filip of Yugoslavia and bottom left, Philipp, Prince of Hesse.

Hope this helped a bit!

[Denmark] Royal Family hosts New Year's Banquet at Christian VII's Palace in Amalienborg

2012-01-02T01:16:00.001+01:00

The Royal Cartoons - Danish Edition - The Nelly Furtado Remix

2012-01-02T00:54:00.000+01:00

[Japan] Emperor Akihito expresses hopes for united rebuilding effort in New Year's greetings

2012-01-01T23:53:00.000+01:00

Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko on Sunday received New Year's greetings at the start of 2012 from other imperial family members and foreign ambassadors, while expressing hope in his New Year's message for cooperative and patient efforts to rebuild society after the nation was devastated by a series of natural disasters last year.

Among the well-wishers who extended congratulations to the emperor and the empress at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo were Crown Prince Naruhito and Crown Princess Masako, Prince Akishino and his wife Princess Kiko, Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda and about 200 ambassadors and their spouses.

photos found on twitter

"It is certainly a pleasure to celebrate the New Year together," the emperor said at the ceremony. "At the beginning of the year, I wish for the prosperity of the nation and happiness of the people."

In his New Year message to the Japanese people released earlier in the day, the emperor expressed hope that everyone will cooperate and make patient efforts to rebuild Japanese society after the country was hard hit in 2011 by calamities, such as the March 11 earthquake and tsunami disaster as well as torrential rains which ravaged parts of western Japan in September.

to read more, click here

Royal Births in January

2012-01-01T14:25:00.001+01:00

January 8th
2011: Prince Vincent and Princess Josephine of Denmark
January 9th
1982: Catherine, The Duchess of Cambridge
January 20th
1973: Princess Mathilde, Duchess of Brabant
January 21st
2004: Princess Ingrid Alexandra of Norway
January 23rd
1957: Princess Caroline of Hanover (sister of Prince Albert II of Monaco)

January 25th
1978: Princess Charlene of Monaco (former Wittstock)

January 30th

1962: King Abdullah II of Jordan
1968: Crown Prince Felipe of Spain
2005: Prince Hashem of Jordan

The Royal Cartoons - Greek Edition - (un)Strike a pose!

2011-12-31T01:07:00.000+01:00

A few months ago, chez les Greeks

The Royal Cartoons - Spanish Edition - A matter of size

2011-12-30T01:41:00.000+01:00

[Spain] Royal Family reveals details on their income for the first time

2011-12-28T15:15:00.001+01:00

Spain's scandal-hit royals revealed their detailed income for the first time on Wednesday, showing King Juan Carlos received a salary plus expenses of 292,752 euros ($382,600) in 2011.

The 73-year-old king's state grant of 140,519 euros was supplemented by 152,233 euros to cover expenses for official duties, said the accounts, published on the royals' website http://www.casareal.com.

Prince Felipe, 43, who is married to former television news presenter Princess Letizia, had half of that figure, which would be 70,260 euros in a state grant and 76,117 euros in expenses.

All top salaries including those of the royal family were cut by 15 percent in 2010 and frozen in 2011, a palace official said.

By comparison, Spain's former prime minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero who left office last week had an annual salary of 78,185 euros, far less than the king's.

The publication of the accounts comes as Spain's royal family battles a corruption scandal centred on the king's son in law, 43-year-old former Olympic handball player Inaki Urdangarin.

Judges are investigating alleged corruption involving a charitable organisation formerly run by Urdangarin, husband of the king's youngest daughter Cristina.

He receives no money from the state.

According to the accounts, Queen Sofia, Princess Letizia and the two princesses Cristina and Elena have no fixed sum but receive expenses for official duties, up to a global maximum of 375,000 euros in 2011.

In tough economic times, pressure had been mounting for more openness about the royals' finances.

The overall budget was already public. The royal budget was frozen in 2010 and then cut by 470,000 euros, or 5.2 percent, to 8.43 million euros in 2011. The royals themselves had reportedly proposed the cut.

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[Spain] King Juan Carlos I opens Parliament with new government

2011-12-28T15:10:00.000+01:00

I am completely in love with her dress and coat!

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[Denmark] Nevertheless, the family was together for Christmas Service at church this weekend

2011-12-27T22:37:00.000+01:00

Consort Prince Henrik, Queen Margrethe, Prince Christian, CP Frederik and Princess Isabella

Princess Marie, heavily pregnant, with baby Prince Henrik and husband Prince Joachim

CP Mary was wearing a beautiful plaid dress, skinny black belt and black coat for service.

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[Denmark] Princess Marie will not attend New Year Courts Gala

2011-12-27T22:29:00.000+01:00

Princess Marie of Denmark will not attend the New Year Courts Gala in Amalienborg that we are used to seeing in Denmark each year. As she is due to give birth in January, as was CP Mary last year - and that didn't attend last year either - she will be on bed rest. Hope the entirely family will be together for next year's.

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[Norway] Family gathers for Christmas service

2011-12-26T22:10:00.000+01:00

Marius (far left) is getting cuter and cuter by the minute. WOW!

Those kids are just SO HAPPY to be there!

[Spain] Spanish Royal family together (exception to Infanta Cristina's family) to attend Cirque du Soleil

2011-12-26T21:56:00.000+01:00

Victoria and Felipe with their mother, Infanta Elena, Infantas Leonor and Sofia holding hands with Queen Sofia and the Prince and Princess of Asturias. What a united front! People missing, obviously: the King (but he usually does not attend this type of event) and Infanta Cristina's family.

If the coat Infanta Elena is wearing is front Zara, I own one just like that.

Queen Sofia with her granddaughters, Doña Victoria Federica and Infanta Leonor

Infanta Sofia holding hands with her grandma and father, Prince Felipe

Princess Letizia looked dazzling and stylish with her leather and fur coat. I hope it's a faux, though.

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[Monaco] Princess Charlene visiting a school (Charles III college) before Christmas

2011-12-26T21:46:00.000+01:00

She was wearing Tory Burch flats - love that brand, they are so comfortable!

Love the detail on the coat!

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My royal news preview for 2012

2011-12-26T12:50:00.007+01:00

This post is deeply inspired by the one I wrote for what 2011 would look like.

Belgium

What I said about 2011: Well, as much as I really like the Brabants, I do not see nothing new happening in this family. Everybody is more or less well married, full of kids and they have enough political problems to deal with already. Might be a quiet year for Belgian monarchy.

What really happened: well, nothing special happened this year. Except a very rebel Prince Laurent but we are getting used to it.

What about 2012: nothing special again yet... I have to confess I am a bit afraid for Queen Fabiola and King Albert II's healths.

Denmark

What I said about 2011: Oh yeahhhhhhhhhh! babies, two babies on the way! maybe three (if princess Marie is pregnant sometime during the year?). How excited are we about those twins? will it be a boy and a girl? two boys? two girls? what will be the names? I am very excited. It can happen anytime soon. It can be happening now, as you read this!

What really happened: and we got babies! Two! In January! Josephine and Vincent joined Christian and Isabella for the CP couple tribe. And YES, Princess Marie is very pregnant, so we will have more babies next year.

What about 2012: I think it will be a boy for Prince Joachim and Princess Marie (a second for her and a fourth for her husband) + big celebration (tiara-like) for Queen Margrethe II's 40th year of reign.

Liechtenstein

What I said about 2011: Well, they are like that side to each family that never call or give news. Therefore, we do not know much about them and they do not know much about us. But we hope they are still alive and well and if we get to get any news, we hope they will be full of joy.

What really happened: Tatjana had a 7th kid. God BLESS HER! Seven children in twelve years of marriage!

What about 2012: Nothing.

Luxembourg

What I said about 2011: What could possibly happen in Luxembourg in the future?

What really happened: Hereditary Grand Duke Guillaume turned 30.

What about 2012: An engagement announcement for Guillaume, perhaps?

Monaco

What I said about 2011: This will be a big year for Monaco. The eternal-bachelor Prince Albert II is finally getting married to his beautiful South African goddess, Charlene Wittstock. She already looks like a princess, making us, royal watchers, damn proud.

This might also be the year we see Princess Caroline finally getting a divorce after so many public appearances without her husband, Prince Ernst of Hannover. Hope they do not keep that quiet so that is does not cause a turmoil: it already is a turmoil!

I do not see any engagements for now. Caroline's three older kids, the Casiraghi gang, are all dating seriously for years but still young and enjoying life and its bliss.

What really happened: The marriage went on (unfortunately, under a turmoil of rumours...) but we all think Charlene - sorry, Princess Charlene! - already has a bunny in the oven. It would not surprise me.

Oh, and Caroline did not get a divorce (I may think now that she never will), but her husband was seen holidaying in beaches with a 23 yo. Creepy. And the Casiraghi trio is faithful to itself: dating seriously with their 3 long termn partners but not engaged.

What about 2012: a babyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy!

The Netherlands

What I said about 2011: Well, I think the same as of the Brabants for the Oranje. They are all set, married and working a lot to make the world a better place. I do not think any new pregnancies will be announced this year. It will be a year of growth, but not in quantity but as of quality for the Dutch.

What really happened: nothing new. Only highlight for me was Maxima's 40th birthday!

What about 2012: nothing.

Norway

What I said about 2011: I do not see either Mette-Marit or Martha-Louise being pregnant this year. The first is working hard alongside her husband to promote their country, their family (their youtube channel is a success) and Martha-Louise is too busy talking to angels (and defending herself on the matter).

What really happened: nothing special for the royal family. Maybe with the exception of CP Haakon & Mette-Marit 10 year anniversary celebration that was beautiful, specially after a period of deep mourning for Norway this year.

What about 2012: nothing.

Spain

What I said about 2011: There has been much speculation on whether King Juan Carlos resigns or not and makes his son - Crown Prince Felipe - King. I really don't know about this. I know his health is failing on him but I do not know how ready Felipe (or Spain) is ready to be made King this promptly. Time will tell. As for kids, I don't think Letizia will be pregnant again this year. Or ever again.

And I think it would be nice to see Infanta Elena move on with her love life. But thing is that she is one of the most discreet women in the world. Even if something was going on, she would preserve herself from the hassle of spotlight.

What really happened: King Juan Carlos I did not abdicate - but his (poor) health has been in the spotlight for a long time now. Nothing new for the Prince & Princess of Asturias nor Elena. But Infanta Cristina's husband Iñaki has been in the turmoil of scandal regarding his business activities. A pity, let me tell you.

What about 2012: nothing (hoping Iñaki does not go to jail...).

Sweden

What I said about 2011: Could Victoria get pregnant this year, pretty please? Oh well, I would understand if she did not, as she seems to be enjoying her marriage like a young teen. And I am happy for her. But I hope a pregnancy comes along in 2011 or early 2012. Wouldn't we be ecstatic?

As for Madeleine, I hope she finds a new true love and can feel better and free to be back to Sweden on a normal basis, as she now "ran away" to New York to overcome her terrible break. I wish nothing but the best to her. Becoming more like her sister (physically) is also happening. Did you notice that?

As for Carl ~~Orlando Bloom~~ Philip, will he try to make his girlfriend, Sofia Hellqvist into a more... royal material? let's see what happens. I am excited!

What really happened: SHE. IS. PREGNANT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

What about 2012: as for Princess Marie of Denmark, I also think CP Victoria and Prince Daniel will have a baby boy. Madeleine will continue in NY and, who knows, Carl Philip might introduce us officially to Sofia...

United-Kingdom

What I said about 2011: Dear oh dear, this might be better than 1981. 30 years after, we finally have a wedding we are really looking VERY forward to. It will be massive, lavish but not too much and just a festival of happy tears, I feel it already. Let's not "overtalk" about it (at least, I know I won't on RO), just a constant stream of news without overdoing it. We want to be happy about the news and not vomit about William and Kate, do we agree?

I think this year can be Harry's. I mean, he is just THE bachelor, the free spirit, the grounded boy, the humanitarian, the man. The best man. His brother's best man, per se. He can grow a few years older this year. And I am pretty much looking forward to that.

And we also have the queen's Jubilee. But who could really only focus on it while we are longing for such a big wedding?

What really happened: okay, I made a mistake last year, the Jubilee is taking place in 2012. But the wedding went pretty well, watched by 2 billion people - I cried - and so did Zara's wedding to Mike Tindall. Now Prince William is The Duke of Cambridge and Prince Harry, as predicted, is THE man. Plus, Autumn and Peter Phillips are expecting a baby.

What about 2012: loads of trips for all the royal members for the Queen's Jubilee, a hopeful recovery for Prince Philip's health (he spent Christmas at the hospital) and MAYBE a pregnancy for Zara (but not for Catherine. Not yet). And Peter and Autumn Phillips might have a baby girl, a little sister to their Savannah. And Prince Harry still since and happy just like that!

[UK] Christmas Church Service in Sandringham

2011-12-25T21:59:00.000+01:00

Very early in the morning...

Later in the morning...

Autumn and Peter Phillips (and bunny in the oven)

Mike Tindall, his wife Zara & Peter Phillips

Princess Beatrice

Lovely Autumn Phillips in Tartan

Can you see Catherine?

The Earl of Wessex & daughter Lady Louise

Princess Eugenie (love her hat! so French!)

all photos from Zimbio

[UK][VIDEO] The Queen's Christmas Broadcast 2011

2011-12-25T20:52:00.000+01:00

Queen Elizabeth addresses the highlights (the good and the bad) in the world, spec. the Commonwealth and in her family (re: Zara & William's weddings).

Now watching "The Queen's Hidden Cousins"

2011-12-18T22:38:00.000+01:00

[Monaco] Princess Charlene receives award "Ein Herz Fur Kinder" for her humanitarian work

2011-12-18T22:35:00.000+01:00

Now watching "Victoria & Albert" w/ Prince Michael of Kent

2011-12-18T11:28:00.001+01:00

[UK] The Duchess of Cornwall invites sick children to decorate the Clarence House Christmas Tree

2011-12-13T11:19:00.000+01:00

The Duchess of Cornwall held back tears as she hosted her annual festive party for sick children at Clarence House.

Each Christmas, Camilla invites disabled youngsters to spend a fun evening with her.

This year children from the Helen and Douglas House Hospice and the London Taxidriver’s fund for underprivileged children helped the Duchess decorate the Christmas tree.

Captain Charles Fraser Samson of the Welsh Guards was also on hand to help out, and the little ones were eager to try out his bear skin for size.

Three-year-old Finley Middleton, who suffers from a combination of restricted growth and immune deficiency problems, drew admiration from the doting grandmother.

Afterwards she told reporters: “It just makes you realise how lucky you are. Honestly, it was all I could do not to cry. It puts everything in perspective, doesn't it?”

To top off the day, the group sat down for some tea accompanied with sandwiches and muffins while Camilla handed out presents and goodie bags.

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Divisions deepen in the Japanese Royal [Imperial] court

2011-12-13T11:10:00.000+01:00

The divisions are so sharp that Crown Princess Masako, pleading a cold, did not once visit the ailing Emperor Akihito, who turns 78 this month, as he lay for 19 days in the University of Tokyo hospital with bronchitis.

The estrangement between the emperor and the couple comes in the twilight of Akihito's reign and foreshadows profound changes in the ancient dynasty.

Long rumoured, but seldom confirmed, the troubles of the monarchy last week moved from the gossip pages of weekly magazines into the staid columns of Japan's most respected newspapers.

Prince Akishino and his wife, Princess Kiko

Supporters of the crown prince and princess, who both studied at Oxford, had hopes they would refresh the court with a modern, cosmopolitan touch - hopes that foundered on stony traditions.

Instead, Japan has endured the private anguish of its crown princess, who has been receiving psychological care for eight years and seldom appears at royal engagements. Masako was ostracised by courtiers when she tried to break with protocol, failed to produce a male heir to the throne and then went into seclusion after a nervous collapse.

The royal couple have a daughter, Aiko, 10, who cannot accede to the chrysanthemum throne under a rule barring women. Crown Prince Naruhito has defended his wife against criticism and this has led to an erosion of his stature in the eyes of the emperor and the rest of the family.

Instead, Prince Akishino, his younger brother, has advanced in favour as the father of the male heir to the throne, Prince Hisahito, now aged five. Hisahito's birth 12 years after his parents' last child ended parliamentary discussion of reforms to allow Aiko to succeed.

Now taboos are crumbling after the younger prince spoke publicly about the distance between the brothers.

"Unfortunately, we do not have the opportunity to interact on many occasions with the crown prince and princess," Akishino told a press conference to mark his 46th birthday.

He remarked the imperial grandchildren rarely saw each other, even though they all lived on the leafy Akasaka estate in central Tokyo. "There have only been a limited number of opportunities for our children to be together," Akishino said.

According to the Asahi Shimbun, a leading daily paper, his comments "give the impression that the crown prince and his family have become isolated within the entire imperial family".

It said the elderly emperor saw far more of little Hisahito, who is a passionate collector of insects, and joined him on expeditions in the imperial palace gardens.

"That may reflect a special bond towards Hisahito, who is the first and only grandson," the paper commented, adding: "The emperor and empress ... want to pass on the future to (Akishino's) children ... that is because they feel they can no longer depend on Masako, who rarely makes public appearances due to an 'adjustment disorder'."

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[Spain] Iñaki Urdangarin - husband of Infanta Cristina - dismissed from Official Engagements for the time being

2011-12-13T10:51:00.000+01:00

A few months ago, King Juan Carlos of Spain proudly saluted the country's armed forces at the National Day military parade surrounded by his family, as he has done throughout his 36-year reign.

Highly respected with a dignified bearing, the royal has always enjoyed great affection among his people.

In the public memory, the patriarch is remembered for his decisive role in thwarting a coup by military officers against the country's fledgling democracy in 1981.

But now the standing of the clan has been threatened by, what the local press has dubbed, the Urdangarin Case.

Juan Carlos' son-in-law, Iñaki Urdangarin, the husband of his daughter Cristina, is being investigated on corruption charges relating to his business activities in Palma, Majorca.

After weeks of headlines, the Palace has announced that he will no longer take part in official engagements.

Spokesman Rafael Spottrono added that his behaviour "did not seem to have been exemplary".

Iñaki, a towering athlete who was once the capitan of the national handball team, was created the Duke of Palma in 1997 on his marriage to Cristina.

Their magnificent wedding in Barcelona Cathedral was followed by the birth of four children.

A few years ago the couple moved to Washington where he works for telecoms giant Telefonica.

Aides said it was not yet known if Cristina would also step down from her official roles.

At the weekend the duke published a statement saying he "regretted" the damage caused by press reports to his family and the king "who had nothing to do" with his private activities.

His lawyer also said that his client is innocent of any wrongdoing and was "outraged" by the allegations.

The accusations centre around the Noos Institute, an non profit organisation for the promotion of sports and tourism.

As president, he is alleged to have charged local authorities hugely inflated fees for organising events and siphoning off funds to his private companies.

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Spotted in Red #4? - Princess Martha-Louise

2011-12-09T12:16:00.000+01:00

I dunno if this is red, but let's just say so

Our beloved Princess Martha-Louise of Norway was spotted attending a Christmas concert at Vang Church with her husband, Ari Behn.

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Cute couple alert! #royallove

2011-12-06T17:54:00.000+01:00

Check out what my favorite Royal Watchers have been talking about!

2011-12-06T15:16:00.000+01:00

Swedish RF meets Nobel Prize committee

Take a look at what my favorite Royal Watchers have been writing and talking about this week!

Book review: Dearest Missy (Royal Romania)
Book review: The Royal W.E. (Princess Palace)
Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden throughout the years in Nobel Prize Ceremonies (Order of Splendor)
Death of Crown Prince Leka, King Leka of the Albanians (Current Royal News)
Death of the Dowager Duchess of Hohenberg (Current Royal News)
The Duchess of Cambridge wears Green Mulberry dress at Buckingham reception (What Kate Wore)
Extracts from a new biography of the Queen: 'I can see you are sublimely happy with Philip... but don’t forget Papa’ (The Telegraph)
Grand Duke and Duchess of Luxembourg to attend Nobel Prize ceremony in Sweden (Lux-Arazzi)
King Albert II, King of the Belgians, ready to swear in new Prime Minister (The Royal Examiner)
Prince Richard of Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg gives an interview (Royal Correspondent)
Prince Sverre Magnus of Norway's 6th birthday (The Royal Forums)
Prince William, it's time to pass the gold sticky stars around (Marilyn's Royal Blog)
Princess Charlene wearing Akris & Louis Vuitton (Royal Fashionistas)
Princess Christina of Sweden talks about breast cancer and life in general (Sofia's Blog)
Princess Laurentien presents Toolkits for the Illiterate (Royalty in the News)
Princess Mabel of Orange controversial gown and wedding (Order of Splendor)
Queen Margrethe II of Denmark to celebrate 40 years on the throne in January 2012 (The Royal Forums)
Queen Rania awards Teachers & Principals (Royalty in the News)
Swedish Royal Family attends a meeting with Nobel Prize committee (Royal Correspondent)
Thai King leaves hospital to give birthday speech (World of Royalty)

Princess Benedikte of Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg kicks off Christmas shopping in Copenhagen

2011-12-05T17:05:00.001+01:00

It's Christmas time! We do not see her that often (on this website, because she is an active royal and true asset to her sister, Queen Margrethe of Denmark), but Princess Benedikte of Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg was seen doing her Christmas rounds and tasting ham in local market in Copenhagen.

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When Charles, Diana, William & Harry met Juan Carlos, Sofia, Elena, Cristina & Felipe in 1987...

2011-12-04T23:20:00.001+01:00

Royalty-related movies and series you can watch (online or on DVD)

2011-12-04T23:19:00.001+01:00

Movies
Fiction
Coming to America (1987)
Roman Holiday (1967)
The Princess Diaries (2001)
The Princess Diaries 2 (2004)

Based on true facts
Anna and the King (2003)
The King's Speech (2010)
The Madness of King George (1994)
The Other Boleyn Girl(2003)(BBC)
The Other Boleyn Girl (2008)
The Queen (2007)
Sissi (1955)
William and Kate (2011)(TV) - click here to watch it
The Young Victoria (2009)

Series
Charles II: The Power and the Passion
Gunpowder, Treason & Plot
The Borgias
The Lost Prince
The Tudors
The Virgin Queen

How incredible is this picture taken while touring Asia? #royallove

2011-12-04T21:48:00.002+01:00

Scandinavian Royals visit Ground Zero (October 2011)

2011-12-04T17:42:00.000+01:00

d34b399b-187a-4c74-8d94-4d1f3efc8b20

What a nice image to kick off the day! #wearefamily

2011-12-04T12:51:00.000+01:00

Princess Stéphanie with Princess Charlene and her brother, Prince Albert II at Fight Aids Monaco

Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Mary of Denmark - Day 1 in Australia (part 2)

2011-12-03T22:24:00.001+01:00

source

[The Netherlands] Queen Beatrix hosts dinner for Mali's president, Amadou Toumani Toure and his wife

2011-12-03T21:23:00.000+01:00

source of the photo

December 2nd, 2011 - Official photo of President of Mali, Amadou Toumani Touré and and Mrs Touré Lobbo Traoré with Queen Beatrix, Prince Willem-Alexander and Princess Maxima. The President was in the Netherlands for a 3 day official visit in The Netherlands

Spotted in Red #3 - Princess Madeleine of Sweden in New York

2011-12-03T11:29:00.000+01:00

Princess Madeleine at the American Scandinavian Society Christmas Ball at The Metropolitan Club in New York.

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[UK] Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall pull a pint after popping into village pub

2011-12-03T11:19:00.000+01:00

PRINCE Charles and Camilla, The Duchess of Cornwall, paid an unlikely visit to a small village on the outskirts of Grantham on Tuesday afternoon.

The Royal couple were on a tour of the county and decided to stop off in Burton-le-Coggles to see the success being made of the village pub and farm shop at The Cholmeley Arms.

In wet and windy weather, the Prince arrived to be greeted by schoolchildren from Charles Read High School and Corby Glen Primary School.

Ruby Earl of Charles Read presented Camilla with a bouquet of flowers on her arrival.

Proud mum Natasha Earl said: “She was really excited and wanted to know if she could give Camilla a kiss.

“It’s really big news for the village - everyone has been talking about it.”

The Prince was shown around the village farm shop, praising the bread on sale courtesy Bloomsbury Bakery of Inner Street, Grantham.

Sam Markiewicz of Bloomsbury said: “He told us he couldn’t believe we’d all been standing out here in the cold and Camilla said how nice the bread looked.”

The Prince then headed into the pub where he poured himself a pint of Newton’s Drop Ale - brewed here in Grantham by Oldershaw Brewery.

Kathy Britton, of Oldershaw’s said: “We are so proud that Prince Charles pulled a pint of our beer.

“We do whatever we can to support local pubs, after all they are our customers, and The Cholmeley Arms is a fantastic example of a proper local pub that really serves its whole community.”

Lesley and John Berry became tenants of the Cholmeley Arms, which is owned by the Easton Estate, in 2009 after it had been closed down. Since then they have turned it around and opened up a village farm shop.

Villager Judy Carr of the Old Chapel, Burton-le-Coggles, said: “John and Leslie coming here and taking over the pub is the best thing that’s ever happened to this village.”

As he left Prince Charles waved to the dozens of people who had come out despite the weather to support his visit. As he got into his car and pulled away, villagers cheered as he went.

Cholmeley Arms landlady Lesley Berry said: “He was just great and really put us all at ease. They are a lovely couple.”

source

[Monaco] Charity Auction for World AIDS Day with Princess Stephanie, Prince Albert II & Princess Charlene

2011-12-02T15:45:00.000+01:00

On the occasion of the World AIDS Day on Dec.1, Prince Albert II of Monaco and Princess Charlene joined HSH Princess Stephanie of Monaco for a charity auction.

Around 50 pieces of art, including paintings, sculptures and photography was auctioned. An exclusive picture of Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene during the Royal Monaco wedding was also included in the collection.

Princess Charlene looked stunning in a knee-length black, which she paired with black stilettos and a matching clutch. This is the second time that the princess joined her sister-in-law for the annual World AIDS Day program.

Princess Stephanie is the President of the Fight AIDS Monaco and has fought passionately for the cause. Every year, the foundation holds a charity auction, the proceeds of which are used for the various programs and campaigns adopted by the Fight AIDS Monaco. Besides this, they are also used to assist poor countries like Madagascar and Haiti.

Take a look at Princess Charlene's glam looks at the annual charity auction below.

source

[Sweden] Crown Princess Victoria was the guest of honor at the Royal Academy of Music

2011-12-02T12:03:00.001+01:00

source

Spotted in Red #2 - Queen Elizabeth II

2011-12-02T11:43:00.000+01:00

The Queen in Liverpool

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[UK][VIDEO] Queen opened the Museum of Liverpool and met Yoko Ono

2011-12-02T11:31:00.000+01:00

source of the photograph

source of the video

"New" Official photograph for Crown Princely family of Denmark

2011-12-01T14:41:00.000+01:00

I would not be surprised if you had already seen this photograph before: it was released just before the Crown Prince and Princess official 6-day tour to Australia at the end of November.

The CP and his wife are surrounded by their four children: Christian, Isabella, Vincent and Josephine (baby twins).

[UK] The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry become official Team GB and Paralympics GB 2012 Ambassadors

2011-12-01T14:33:00.000+01:00

read more on the official press release by clicking here

Spotted in Red #1 - Princess Maxima

2011-12-01T14:24:00.000+01:00

Princess Maxima of The Netherlands attends the Prince Bernhard Culture Fund Awards on November 28, 2011 in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

source

I love this dress, the cut and not to mention, THE COLOUR!

[Norway] Television channel boosts Mette-Marit's image through two-part documentary

2011-11-24T16:16:00.000+01:00

As Crown Princess Mette-Marit formally opened a church in her name in Miami over the weekend, Norwegians back home were being shown a glowing documentary on her life, produced by Norwegian Broadcasting (NRK). It seemed like NRK was intent on boosting the crown princess’ image, although some might argue that’s no longer necessary.

Controversy erupted when Mette-Marit Tjessem-Høiby emerged as the new girlfriend of Crown Prince Haakon in the late 1990s. She reportedly had a wild past, little formal education and a son from a brief relationship – not exactly the stuff future queens are made of.

Most of the noise has since died down, though, and Mette-Marit has worked hard to find her place in the royal family. It wasn’t immediately clear what prompted the state broadcaster to make the lengthy documentary, which dredged up her past again but mostly offered a string of overwhelmingly positive testimonials about the woman who went from rebellious teenage commoner and single mother to wife of the crown prince. The documentary didn’t coincide with the crown princess’ birthday, and it came three months after the couple celebrated their 10th anniversary in August, so there was no obvious news peg. But NRK had promoted it heavily and aired it in prime time on Sunday night, just before the highly popular British series Downton Abbey. A large television seemed virtually assured.

The documentary, first of two parts, touched on Mette-Marit’s admittedly wild past without going into any detail on what she really did as a young woman that caused such a fuss when her relationship to Crown Prince Haakon became known. There were archive clips from her tearful admission and apology to the Norwegian people, aired just days before the wedding in 2001, when she publicly stated that she’d “tested the limits” of what most consider acceptable behaviour. She distanced herself from narcotics, without directly admitting drug use, and said she understood that many Norwegians were having a hard time accepting her as their new crown princess.

Otherwise, there were no specific references in the documentary to the house-party life she was reported to be part of at the time, or her single motherhood. King Harald, in one of the many testimonials to Mette-Marit on the NRK program, addressed the issue mostly by describing “how brave” it was of her to confide in him and Queen Sonja about her past, but the monarch also refrained from detailing what she’d actually said. When she’d finished talking to them, according to the king, “I asked her, ‘Is that all, is there anything more you want to tell us?’ and she said, ‘no, that was all,’ so I responded, ‘OK, fine, we’ll go for this.’” That opened the door for the marriage to go forward.

The monarch said he wasn’t entirely at ease, though, until he explained the situation to Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg, who was leading his first government at the time. “‘I’ll get the government to along with this,’” King Harald quoted Stoltenberg as saying.

The crown prince, meanwhile, had made it clear they’d marry regardless, even if it meant he’d need to abdicate. “We all knew what the situation was,” Haakon’ only sibling, Princess Martha Louise, told NRK.

to read more, click here

I know this video is a few months old but I love how she calls his attention #royallove

2011-11-23T11:55:00.001+01:00

[United Kingdom][VIDEO] Queen Elizabeth II gives ceremonial welcome to Turkey's President Abdullah Gül

2011-11-23T11:23:00.000+01:00

Princess Charlene of Monaco gives back to charity in South Africa

2011-11-23T09:15:00.000+01:00

Princess Charlene of Monaco has pledged over R1 million to charity in honour of Archbishop Desmond Tutu's 80th birthday, The Giving Organisation Trust said on Thursday. Charlene informed the trust of her R1,080,000 donation on Saturday evening, said spokeswoman Lesley O'Connor.

The princess, co-patron of the Trust with Tutu, said in a statement she hoped her contribution would encourage the public and corporate sector to honour the Archbishop by donating to those in need.

The trust represents ten charities in South Africa. The donation was to be divided equally among them.

Trust chairmen Kelvin Glen said the charities deeply appreciated the princess's generosity and her continued support of the trust.

source

FYI, and according to xe.com, 1 million rands = 75,000 pounds / 87,000 euros / 118,000 dollars

Princess Theodora of Greece at the 12th Annual Grammy Awards last week in Las Vegas

2011-11-21T22:54:00.000+01:00

(zimbio)

[Monaco] First National Day for Charlene as a Princess

2011-11-21T22:31:00.000+01:00

It was arguably the biggest event since her wedding in July of this year. But Princess Charlene of Monaco was the epitome of cool as she celebrated her nation's first National Day in an official capacity.

The blonde South African has accompanied Prince Albert to the celebrations in previous years, but this was her first appearance as a princess.

And, despite having to recently deny runaway bride reports on a US chat show, Albert and Charlene looked blissfully happy as they led the festivities.

The morning ceremonies saw the pair take to the balcony in Monaco Palace Square.

Elegant in beige, Charlene smiled and waved to the crowds in the square below as Albert stood proudly by her side.

The royals looked close as they exchanged intimate smiles and entwined hands in a show of unity.

It was a family affair as Albert's sisters - Princess Stephanie and Caroline – strolled alongside their new sister-in-law during the parade.

Caroline's daughters, Charlotte Casiraghi and Alexandra were also in attendance.

The patriotic party culminated in a concert at the Grimaldi forum where Charlene opted for muted glamour in a brown, floor length gown and sleek up-do.

Then the princess was presented a bouquet of flowers by children dressed as Pierrots.

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King and Queen of Bhutan end 6-day official visit to Japan

2011-11-21T20:34:00.000+01:00

Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema left Japan after wrapping up their six-day visit as state guests Sunday.

Before leaving from Kansai International Airport in Osaka, the royal couple visited the Sento Imperial Palace in Kyoto and took a 30-minute walk in its garden, enjoying autumn colors and taking pictures of themselves in front of a pond.

The couple arrived in Tokyo on Tuesday and later met with Crown Prince Naruhito and Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda and his wife. While attending a series of ceremonies including a state banquet, they also visited Fukushima Prefecture to encourage people affected by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami and the ensuing nuclear crisis triggered by the disaster.

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Jordan's King Abdullah II has visited the West Bank to hold talks in Ramallah with Mahmoud Abbas, the Palestinian president.

2011-11-21T20:00:00.000+01:00

The rare visit came just days ahead of a key summit between the rival Palestinian movements Fatah and Hamas, which are looking to cement a stalled unity deal that has drawn fierce opposition from Israel and Washington.

It was the first time the monarch visited the West Bank's political capital since August 2000, and came just days before the Palestinian leader was due in Cairo to meet exiled Hamas chief Khaled Meshaal.

But officials said little about the reasons behind the high-level visit, which saw the Jordanian monarch flying in by helicopter for a brief stay of little more than two hours.

"This was an important and historic visit with a message of support," Abbas told reporters after the king's departure, without revealing what was discussed.

"We thank the king for his strong support for the Palestinian Authority and the Palestinian cause particularly at this time."

Speaking to reporters as the two leaders held closed-door talks, Nasser Judeh, the Jordanian foreign minister, expressed support for both the Palestinians' UN membership bid and for moves to cement a unity deal between Hamas and Fatah.

"The king has always said that strength comes from unity of the Palestinian front," he said.

"Jordan's goal is to support the Palestinian Authority and the Palestinian cause and we will make every effort for the Palestinian cause and the unity of the Palestinian front."

Standing beside him, Palestinian foreign minister Riyad al-Malki said reconciliation was of the greatest importance.

"For us there is no greater interest than the reconciliation and the end of the division," he said.

Earlier an Abbas adviser Nimr Hammad described the timing of the visit as "very important" and said they would discuss "all the political developments between us and the international community in order reach a common Palestinian-Jordanian understanding on the issues."

Talks had been expected to touch on the Palestinian bid to secure full state membership at the United Nations, and on the forthcoming Hamas-Fatah meeting in Cairo – both of which have met with strong US and Israeli opposition.

Under terms of their unity deal, Fatah and Hamas were to piece together an interim government of politically unaffiliated technocrats who would prepare for presidential and legislative elections within a year.

But the caretaker government was never formed, with the two sides bickering over its composition and over who would take up the role of premier.

However, the two sides appear to have reached some form of agreement which is likely to be made public after they meet in the Egyptian capital later this week, officials say.

King Abdullah paid his first visit to the Palestinian territories in May 1999 just months after being crowned king, meeting the late leader Yasser Arafat in Gaza.

In April 2000, he made his first visit to Ramallah and returned four months later, which was the last time he visited the city.

A senior Israeli official, who said they were not informed of Abdullah's plans, welcomed the West Bank visit.

"We have repeatedly called in the past for Arab leaders to travel to Ramallah in order to strengthen the peace process. Unfortunately, almost none of them have come," he said.

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[Swaziland] King Mswati III bans & kicks out wife # 12 after "affair".

2011-11-21T16:31:00.000+01:00

The 12th wife of Swaziland's autocratic king, who allegedly had an affair with his justice minister, has been thrown out of the royal palace without her children.

Inkhosikati LaDube, 23, who married King Mswati III at the age of 16, says she has been kept under virtual house arrest in her official residence since she and Ndumiso Mamba were caught in a hotel in Mbabane, the capital, last year.

She told a South African newspaper that after more than a year in captivity, she was ordered "immediately to leave the palace" on November 12.

It followed a row with a security guard who blocked her from taking the youngest of her three children, a two-year-old boy, to hospital after he injured himself while playing, she said.

"He threatened to hit me, saying I am not going anywhere with my child, who was bleeding from a deep wound," she said.

An altercation ensued, she told South Africa's Sunday Times, and she was "physically prevented" from leaving the palace. "I had to protect myself, so I pepper-sprayed him in the eyes," she said.

The matter was reported to the Queen Mother, who shares power with her son and is known as the Indlovukazi, or Great She-Elephant. She is said to have decided that LaDube had been disrespectful and should be evicted from the royal household.

LaDube said she was forced to leave behind her children and her belongings.

The King, who is 43 and has 23 children by 13 wives, is on his annual period of seclusion. He has not seen LaDube for a year and, she alleges, knows almost nothing about the couple's children.

Swaziland Solidarity Network, a South Africa-based umbrella organisation of pro-democracy organisations, lambasted the king for his wife's "brutal eviction".

"The ill-treatment that LaDube has endured and the subsequent separation from her children is a very inhumane act," Lucky Lukhele, a spokesman, said. He said the king had "never forgiven" LaDube for embarrassing him with her alleged affair.

"Mswati has never again set foot in her house after the scandal. He further instructed her bodyguards to deliberately frustrate her to the point where she could no longer take it and then hopefully leave," he said. He added that without their mother, LaDube's children were at risk of being "terribly neglected" in the royal household.

source

Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Mary of Denmark - Day 1 in Australia (part 1)

2011-11-21T13:36:00.000+01:00

On the one hand, Prince Frederik and Princess Mary of Denmark were on official duties as they began their tour of Australia.

But the royal couple, who are known for putting family first, were also busy entertaining twins Josephine and Vincent during the visit.

The Danish Royals have returned to Mary's homeland for a six day tour, and it seems the down-to-earth couple will be balancing work and family whilst on the road.

Joining them were their adorable 11-month old tots who were described by their father as "miracles times two" when they were born in January of this year.

And in a nod to their mum's roots, the twins were clutching a stuffed koala and kangaroo –a gift from Australia's Governor General, Quentin Bryce - who also attended their opening photo call.

There was no sign of the couple's other two children five-year-old Christian and Isabella, who is three.

They spent their first day in typical Aussie style, enjoying a beach stroll and a barbecue before zipping round the harbour on a boat.

With official duties and children taken care of, they got into the competitive spirit as they hopped onto some excercise bikes at the during the launch of an arts project.

Australian politician, Barry O'Farrell, was on hand to welcome Mary and her husband to Sydney and had glowing words for his guests .

"Like many Australians, we share in the royal romance and relationship that some have described as a fairytale'' he said.

This is the royals first official visit to Australia since 2008.

source of the article

and photos

Spotted: King Abdullah II of Jordan meets with British PM David Cameron at 10 Downing Street

2011-11-21T12:37:00.000+01:00

British Prime Minister David Cameron welcomes King Abdullah of Jordan to 10 Downing Street on November 15, 2011 in London, England. His Majesty King Abdullah, who is currently on an official visit to the UK will meet Mr Cameron to discuss developments in the Arab region, and the continued efforts to sustain peace in the Middle East.

King Jigme of Bhutan proposed to his wife when she was... 7 years old!

2011-11-21T10:54:00.000+01:00

The royal couple apparently met when aged seventeen and seven respectively at a family picnic in Thimphu.

The then-prince got down on his knees and said "when you grow up, if I am single and not married and if you are single and not married, I would like you to be my wife, provided we still feel the same," he told students in August of the current year.

Read more at the source

King Jigme of Bhutan and Queen Jetsun Pema's visit to Japan

2011-11-21T09:55:00.001+01:00

Queen Jetsun of Bhutan and Princess Kiko

Her natural beauty and elegance and her colourful traditional outfits have helped Bhutan's Queen Jetsun Pema become the new fashion icon of the Orient.

And the 21-year-old royal, who has become an ambassador for the ethnic style of her tiny Himalayan state, did her people proud on an official visit to Japan.

Jesun and her husband King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck were welcomed to Toyko's Imperial Palace by Crown Prince Naruhito.

The prince was stepping in for his absent father, Emperor Akihito, who has been hospitalised with bronchitis symptoms.

Also at the welcome ceremony was Empress Michiko and her younger son Prince Akishimo and his wife Princess Kiko.

Naruhito's wife, Crown Princess Masako, who has been affected by a stress-induced illness, was absent.

At a banquet in the evening, Naruhito praised the couple's state, saying Japan could learn a lot from the way it was governed.

He was referring to Bhutan's gross national happiness index – which requires the government to measure citizens' contentment rather their material wealth.

King Jigme and his wife, who wed in an elaborate marriage ceremony last October, promised to spend their honeymoon working, and that's exactly what they've done.

Their Japan trip marks pilot's daughter Jetsun's second major trip overseas as queen after the couple visited India.

They are the first state visitors to be welcomed to Japan since the March earthquakes and tsunami.

source

Queen Jetsun with Empress Michiko and King Jigme

With Crown Prince Naruhito

Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Mary of Denmark arrive to Australia

2011-11-20T19:07:00.000+01:00

Crown Princess Mary and her husband Crown Prince Frederik have arrived Down Under with their brood. The royal couple will arrived in Sydney this morning and will kick off their two-day visit to the Harbour City on Sunday at the Sculpture by the Sea exhibition in Bondi, where they'll view a work by Danish sculptor Keld Moseholm.

They'll also present the People's Choice and Children's Choice awards.

Sculpture by the Sea holds a special significance for the royal couple, who visited it during their early courting days after Mary met her prince at a Sydney nightclub during the Sydney 2000 Olympics.

Their six-day visit to Australia will include stops at Canberra, Melbourne, western Victoria and Broken Hill in NSW.

They are also expected to have a private family visit with their children, Prince Christian, six; Princess Isabella, four; and twins Prince Vincent and Princess Josephine, 10 months.

Crown Princess Mary was born Mary Donaldson in Hobart and married Crown Prince Frederik in 2004 in Copenhagen. It is the royal family's first visit to Australia since August 2008.

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King Jigme of Bhutan's speech at the Diet in Japan

2011-11-17T23:44:00.000+01:00

[Qatar] Sheikha Moza pledges more support to UNESCO

2011-11-17T15:55:00.000+01:00

Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Unesco’s Special Envoy for Basic and Higher Education, has pledged to increase her support to Unesco’s core education activities as a direct response to the financial difficulties faced by the organisation.

Sheikha Moza is particularly concerned that the decision of some member states to withhold contributions will have serious and adverse consequences on Unesco’s core programmes and mark setbacks for sustainable development and peace, at a time when international cooperation is critical for achieving quality universal education, a statement posted on the Unesco website said.

Sheikha Moza has called upon all partners to join her in this initiative given the challenges ahead, four years short of the 2015 target date for achieving the Millennium Development Goals, and following the commitment made by the Heads of States at the Millennium Development Goal Summit in New York in 2010.

Sheikha Moza has stated that the financial difficulties faced by the organisation stands to affect all its core programmes.

“This marks a very strong sign of Her Highness’ deep commitment to education for all, which is the foundation for building more peaceful and sustainable societies.

“Unesco will put every effort into ensuring that this support translates into opening educational opportunities for the most marginalised, improving the quality of education systems in least developed countries, and forging new partnerships,” said Unesco’s Director-General Irina Bokova.

This emergency initiative will support the programme and budget adopted by the 36th General Conference, in particular the reinforcement of leadership for Education for All, through advocacy, partnership and monitoring, with a special emphasis on girls and women.

Concerted attention will be placed on the least developed countries, which are furthest away from reaching the Education for All goals.

The modalities for this important initiative will be worked out in the next few weeks with all the speed and urgency required to minimise the possible negative impact to Unesco core programme adopted by the 36th General Conference of Member States.

Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, who is also the United Nations’ Secretary-General’s special advocate for Millennium Development Goal 2 on primary education, has provided long time support to Unesco’s activities, notably for literacy, curriculum development, teacher education and rehabilitation of higher education in Iraq, emergency support to education in Gaza, and support to the publication of the Education under Attack series.

Director-General Irina Bokova expressed her gratitude to Her Highness for her positive and timely support to Unesco.

source

[Sweden] Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel surrounded by children

2011-11-14T15:44:00.000+01:00

Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel were in Järfälla, just outside Stockholm, this weekend.

Despite the biting cold that welcomed Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel, it was with great warmth that they were welcomed to the town as they arrived shortly after 10 o'clock. The couple was greeted with a wedding gift (after a year?) given by the municipality.

The first stop of the day was the playground of Kalhällsparken which is praised for its accessibility. Around the fence all the present children greeted the CP with a "Hello princess!" and Victoria took the time to talk to everybody, even to stop by six-month-old baby Cecilia Rozmeijer. With her twinkling eyes, she gave the princess a gift and the expectant CP could not have been happier.

source

This photo is just too cute! #royallove

2011-11-14T14:47:00.000+01:00

Princess Charlene of Monaco denies "runaway bride" rumours in TV Interview

2011-11-14T14:35:00.000+01:00

She should be enjoying the first few giddy months as a newlywed. Unfortunately, Princess Charlene of Monaco is still being forced to address unkind rumours about her marriage.

In New York with new husband Prince Albert, the feisty former Olympic swimmer from South Africa, told the US media that she'd ignored the 'runaway bride' reports.

Charlene – who has been in North America promoting an exhibition about the most famous princess of Monaco, the late Grace Kelly – branded the gossip "hilarious".

Sitting side by side with Grace's son, the prince who made her his wife in July before a global audience, the new royal answered questions with the confidence she learned during her top-flight athletic career.

Speaking to US show Today Charlene, 33, said: "(I) obviously focused on what the day meant for the two of us," she said.

"Why would he go through the effort to have our most intimate dearest friends join us for us to be reluctant. It sounded a bit hilarious."

Asked why they appeared so serious during their lavish open-air ceremony, her supportive 53-year-old husband jumped in.

"I thought I paid attention to you and smiled at you many times, but maybe that's not enough for some people."

source

I don't know exactly what, but there is something in this picture I just love!

2011-11-11T22:38:00.002+01:00

[VIDEO] Crown Princess and Princess of Denmark unite with the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge to raise awareness on plight of children in East Africa

2011-11-03T13:46:00.000+01:00

Giving their admirers a treat, two of the most charismatic ladies on the royal scene met this week.

Mary of Denmark welcomed royal rookie, the Duchess of Cambridge to Copenhagen. (...)

But it wasn't a social occasion – the elegant pair have joined forces to help crisis-hit African children.

The duo – joined by their husbands Prince William and Crown Prince Frederik – toured UNICEF's global crisis center in the Danish capital.

After attending a briefing, the royal visitors were due to roll up their sleeves and pack emergency medical kits, which are being sent to malnourished children in East Africa.

During a talk on nutrition, the couple were offered a taste of a special high-protein peanut paste being included in the packages.

William scooped up some of the paste with his finger before passing it on to his wife, who declined the offer to taste it.

Kate looked elegant in a long red coat for the occasion while Mary stepped out in a navy blazer.

Helping Africa is a cause close to both Mary and Kate's hearts.

Denmark's future queen visited Kenya recently on an emotional mission to a refugee camp housing women and children fleeing the famine in conflict-ridden Somalia.

And the Duchess and her husband have a long-standing affection for the part of the world. It was in Kenya where they became engaged just over a year ago.

William said the crisis had been going on for 100 days and with the rains about to come, disease would become a huge issue.

He said that despite the financial troubles going on around the world what was happening in east Africa would really "put everything into perspective".

His wife added that she'd been "shocked" by the scale of the disaster. "Hopefully this (visit) will put the light back on this terrible crisis," she said.

video by Unicef (youtube)

article source

to help, go to eastafricacrisis.org

[Denmark] Prince Joachim and Princess Marie expecting a baby due in January 2012 #royalbabyboom

2011-10-30T23:11:00.000+01:00

I know, I know, these are not recent news, but I did not find the time to publish them before. Prince Joachim will have a fourth child and it will be baby number 2 for our lovely Princess Marie. Cannot believe little Prince Henrik will be a big brother already! And yes, we are in royal baby boom! Joy joy joy!

Which other babies are on the way? Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel of Sweden's first baby, Prince Nikolaos and Princess Tatiana of Greece's first baby, Peter and Autumn Phillips (son and daughter in law of Princess Royal) are expecting their second one.

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Queen Rania of Jordan on The Employment Challenge at World Economic Forum

2011-10-30T18:56:00.000+01:00

Greek prince on short visit to Karachi #Pakistan #Nikolaos

2011-10-28T14:03:00.000+02:00

Prince Nikolaos of Greece paid a short visit to Karachi on Tuesday to meet an old friend and some dignitaries, including Sindh Governor Dr Ishratul Ebad, officials told The Express Tribune.

Forty-two-year-old Prince Nikolaos was in the city on the invitation of Ghouse Akbar, the CEO of Princely Jets. “Yes, he came to see me,” Akbar told The Express Tribune on Wednesday. “It was a personal visit. He is a friend from my university days. This is all I can say at the moment.” Akbar and the prince were at Brown University. Prince Nikoloas called on Governor Ebad at the latter’s residence. “The governor told the Greek prince that Pakistan was a most suitable destination for investment due to its investor-friendly policies,” said an official handout on Wednesday.

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Girls equal in British throne succession

2011-10-28T13:52:00.000+02:00

Sons and daughters of any future UK monarch will have equal right to the throne, after Commonwealth leaders agreed to change succession laws.

The leaders of the 16 Commonwealth countries where the Queen is head of state unanimously approved the changes at a summit in Perth, Australia.

It means a first-born daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge would take precedence over younger brothers.

The ban on the monarch being married to a Roman Catholic was also lifted.

Under the old succession laws, dating back more than 300 years, the heir to the throne is the first-born son of the monarch. Only when there are no sons, as in the case of the Queen's father George VI, does the crown pass to the eldest daughter.

Announcing the changes had been agreed, Prime Minister David Cameron said they would apply to descendents of the Prince of Wales. They will not be applied retrospectively.

David Cameron: ''The idea a younger son should become monarch instead of an elder daughter simply because he's a man... is at odds with the modern countries we have become''

"Put simply, if the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were to have a little girl, that girl would one day be our queen," he said.

"The idea that a younger son should become monarch instead of an elder daughter simply because he is a man, or that a future monarch can marry someone of any faith except a Catholic - this way of thinking is at odds with the modern countries that we have become."

Australia's Prime Minister Julia Gillard said it was an extraordinary moment: "I'm very enthusiastic about it. You would expect the first Australian woman prime minister to be very enthusiastic about a change which equals equality for women in a new area."

She said the changes appeared to be straightforward. "But just because they seem straightforward to our modern minds doesn't mean that we should underestimate their historical significance, changing as they will for all time the way in which the monarchy works and changing its history."

But the campaign group Republic - which wants an elected head of state in Britain - said "nothing of substance" had been changed.

"The monarchy discriminates against every man, woman and child who isn't born into the Windsor family. To suggest that this has anything to do with equality is utterly absurd," spokesman Graham Smith said.

On scrapping the ban on future monarchs marrying Roman Catholics, Mr Cameron said: "Let me be clear, the monarch must be in communion with the Church of England because he or she is the head of that Church. But it is simply wrong they should be denied the chance to marry a Catholic if they wish to do so. After all, they are already quite free to marry someone of any other faith."

Scotland's First Minister Alex Salmond welcomed the lifting of the ban but said it was "deeply disappointing" that Roman Catholics were still unable to ascend to the throne.

"It surely would have been possible to find a mechanism which would have protected the status of the Church of England without keeping in place an unjustifiable barrier on the grounds of religion in terms of the monarchy," he said.

"It is a missed opportunity not to ensure equality of all faiths when it comes to the issue of who can be head of state."

In her opening speech to the summit, the Queen did not directly mention the royal succession laws, but said women should have a greater role in society.

"It encourages us to find ways to show girls and women to play their full part," she said.

The BBC's royal correspondent, Nicholas Witchell, said this was a hint that the Queen herself backed the change.

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