Fans Criticize Kate & William for Leaving in Private Helicopter for Lavish Trip after Queen's $30M Jubilee
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge recently jetted off with their family for a lavish vacation on a private helicopter. While they might have planned to cool off following the recent royal celebration, fans criticized their decision.
Prince William and Kate Middleton are currently off royal duties and away from the palace. The young royal couple flew with their children for a luxurious getaway.
This comes weeks after the Queen's memorable platinum jubilee celebration, which involved a hectic schedule due to intense planning and preparations. Royal fans would recall that the Duke and his Duchess were hands-on in the event, supporting the Crown, and appearing in various locations.
Queen Elizabeth II, Prince George of Cambridge, Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, Princess Charlotte of Cambridge, Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Louis of Cambridge on the balcony of Buckingham Palace during the Platinum Jubilee Pageant on June 05, 2022 in London, England | Source: Getty Images
The Cambridges had joined the monarch at Buckingham Palace for the Trooping the Colour event before attending her Service of Thanksgiving at St. Paul's Cathedral, London.
Apart from showering the 96-year-old with all the support and love with their presence, the royal couple noticeably dressed elegantly and suitable for the events.
Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge with Prince Louis of Cambridge, Princess Charlotte of Cambridge and Prince George of Cambridge during Trooping the Colour on June 2, 2022 in London, England | Source: Getty Images
During Trooping the Colour, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and their kids joined the Queen on the balcony. William's choice of attire was his signature shiny red dress uniform, adorned with medals— his Order of the Garter gold chain and his Order of the Thistle green sash.
Next to him was the future Princess of Wales, clutching to her black purse as she sported a snow-white-V-neck dress and a matching colored fascinator that tilted to one side of her head.
Prince Louis of Cambridge, Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, Princess Charlotte of Cambridge, Prince George of Cambridge and Prince William, Duke of Cambridge watch a flypast from the balcony of Buckingham Palace during Trooping the Color on June 2, 2022 in London, England | Source: Getty Images
The younger royals who stood in front of their parents were dressed simply yet adorably. Their first son, George, was styled in a two-piece navy blue suit, tie, and white shirt. His sister Charlotte looked cute in a sea-blue baby doll dress, while Louis, the youngest, draped in his sailor's outfit.
For the ceremony at the church, the Cambridges caused a stir with their stylishness. William wore a classic black suit decked with royal medals, while his wife looked gorgeous in her Emilia Wickstead mustard dress, with an x-themed waist design.
Kate matched her outfit with a yellow hat, gloves, and Elizabeth's earrings. Although the Queen was not present on all occasions, she wanted to be involved in the planning. A source confirmed that the monarch wanted a low budget for the celebrations.
It was her "express wish" that unnecessary spending must be avoided, especially since she considered the nation's economic state where many families struggled to pay bills and citizens were out of jobs.
Irrespective of the royal's wish, the celebration was one of the biggest expenditures of the British government. In last year's budget, $30 million was allocated for what was termed "a major celebration for the UK."
It is not surprising that after such a manic schedule, the Cambridges opted to rest with their kids, and enjoy a break in a lush trip. But this did not get past the public's eagle eyes.
A LAVISH GETAWAY FOR THE CAMBRIDGES
A while ago, George and his siblings took a break from school to plan for the royal engagements and a rumored Caribbean holiday. Recently, William, his family, and their dog, a black cocker spaniel Orla left their Kensington residence, and they were later photographed with their bags walking to a black helicopter.
The family passed through a private field adjacent to the Nepalese Embassy, not too far from Kensington Palace. Prince Louis appeared delighted as he ran to the chopper ahead of his siblings. Sources confirmed that they were heading to their luxurious destination for a summer holiday.
According to the gossip mills, the royal couple has always wanted to visit the private Caribbean island of Mustique for a summer vacation after their 2019 trip to the place.
Royal expert Ingrid Seward predicted that the Cambridges would be spending time on the Mustique Island, in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, where they marked George's sixth birthday.
Although the family did not pack enough boxes for what was perceived to be a long trip, sources alleged that they would likely make a stopover. Mustique Island is an attractive site for wealthy clients. The 14,000 acres island is known for its white beach sand and an environment that affords optimum privacy.
This was Princess Margaret's favorite destination. The island's prestigious reputation makes it home to a list of famous names. Mick Jagger, Bryan Adams, and Tommy Hilfiger are among those who own homes on the property.
For visitors, accommodation is pricey. They have the option of renting one of the luxury villas or a suite or cottage at "The Cotton House," the only hotel in Mustique.
WILLIAM'S GETAWAY CHOICE MEETS CRITICISM
Following their recent decision, the couple came under fire from royal fans who believed that their expenses were ridiculous, especially at a time like this.
Without mincing words, they poured out their disappointment through comments on social media. Some believed it was disrespectful to spend such a hefty sum on a holiday after the $30 million splashed on the Queen's Jubilee.
They also maintained that the royals could have set a better example since William preached how technological advancement affects climate change (a private jet trip increases their carbon footprint). A fan remarked,
"Not good for their carbon footprint."
Another person wrote, "What a slap in the face of all who are finding it a massive financial struggle, just do away with them all." A third comment read. "Thoughts they were supposed to be a good example to us all, sadly not."
Another royal fan's words were, "Wow!!!...remind me, people, what have these people done to deserve a private chopper for holidays????" A few responses were concerned about the royals traveling in one plane. According to the commenter:
"Is it wise the whole family on one helicopter. I always thought two heirs to the throne couldn't travel together no matter how inconvenient it is."
Indeed, the royals have an unofficial rule where senior royals do not fly in groups. Still, these restrictions have been relaxed for the younger generation—since William's kids were born — so they can have more time as a family.
Before the trip, it was reported that the Queen spoke to her grandson severally and advised him to quit flying himself, particularly in bad weather. This precautionary measure was targeted to keep the line of succession intact amid fear of an accident.
Despite the astounding criticism, the couple still received cheers from their loyal fans, whose comments were full of hearty wishes, positivity, and understanding. One person wrote,
"They are family with 3 children need a holiday like normal family. God bless them." Another quipped, "Have a wonderful Holiday with your gorgeous Children just enjoy your selves."
WILLIAM AND KATE'S LIFE IN WINDSOR
Despite the short-term holiday, the senior royals are still committed to their duties, as they are slated to move to Windsor, the Queen's primary residence. It is speculated that the family will reside in the Adelaide Cottage on the castle.
While this will mean a busy time for the couple, it also proposes a major change for their offspring. Their two eldest kids, George and Charlotte, will transfer from their London prep school, Thomas's Battersea, to a new school in the neighborhood.
Nonetheless, the family is thrilled about the relocation. This will bring them closer to the aged monarch and expose them to the beautiful, historical city of London.