Queen Camilla and King Charles make separate exits from London ahead of royal tour

Queen Camilla and King Charles

Queen Camilla and King Charles make separate exits from London ahead of royal tour

Getty
Dorothy Reddin

By Dorothy Reddin


Published: 20/10/2024

- 12:53

The Queen is known to have a fear of flying

King Charles and Queen Camilla touched down in Sydney on Friday to begin their royal tour of Australia and Samoa.

However, the royal couple arrived separately, with King Charles departing London on October 17, whilst Queen Camilla left at a different time.


The separate travel arrangements were reportedly due to personal preferences. Queen Camilla is known to have a fear of flying and often breaks up long-haul journeys with a private holiday.

The Queen, 77, is known to visit the Soukya Holistic Health Centre near Bangalore, India, during such breaks.

Queen Camilla and King CharlesQueen Camilla and King Charles make separate exits from London ahead of royal tourGetty

King Charles, meanwhile, remained in London to attend several events and meetings before his departure, reflecting what Queen Camilla has previously described as his "complete workaholic" nature.

The nine-day tour of Australia and Samoa marks a significant milestone for the royal couple. It is their first visit to a Commonwealth realm since King Charles ascended to the throne.

The trip also represents their furthest work journey from home following the King's cancer diagnosis in February.

However, the tour has been modified due to health considerations. A planned visit to New Zealand was cancelled on medical advice.

Queen Camilla and King Charles

Queen Camilla and King Charles arriving in Sydney on Friday

Reuters

A Palace spokesperson stated: "The King's doctors have advised that a further extension to Their Majesties' trip should be avoided at this time, to prioritise His Majesty's continued recovery."

The Australian leg of the tour will also be relatively limited compared to previous royal visits, again due to the King's ongoing recovery.

The tour itinerary will focus on showcasing the best of Australia and Samoa, as well as reflecting aspects of the King and Queen's work, according to Buckingham Palace.

This visit marks King Charles's first attendance at a Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting as Head of the Commonwealth.

Queen Camilla and King Charles

Queen Camilla and King Charles attending church in Australia today

Reuters

Despite the modifications, the royal couple's engagements are expected to highlight key themes in both nations.

The Palace emphasised that all of His Majesty's recent engagements have been subject to doctors' advice.

Any necessary modifications may be made on health grounds during the tour.

The visit to Australia and Samoa allows the royal couple to engage with local communities and highlight shared interests.

Queen Camilla

Queen Camilla is known to have a fear of flying

PA

Buckingham Palace has emphasised the tour's focus on celebrating the best of both nations.

The King and Queen's engagements are expected to reflect their personal interests and causes.

However, the Palace has made it clear that the King's health remains a priority.

The tour's itinerary may be adjusted if necessary, based on medical advice.

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