Meghan Markle chose to forego her royal title and clarified her preferred form of address at the beginning of her and Prince Harry’s journey to Australia.
Welcomed by a multitude of supporters, the couple commenced their Australian visit by embracing patients at a children’s hospital. Engaging in selfies, Meghan received flowers and a greeting card while they were enthusiastically greeted at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne. Meghan also made a stop at a women’s shelter before reuniting with Harry at a veteran’s museum on the initial day of their Down Under excursion.
As reported by The Telegraph, Steve Cotterill, the first Australian poet laureate at the Australian National Veterans’ Art Museum, inquired how the couple wished to be addressed.
In a casual manner, Harry responded, “However you like,” and Meghan added, “Call me Meg.” Staff at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne were informed by the couple’s aides that addressing them as “Harry and Meghan” was acceptable, emphasizing their relaxed approach.
Traditionally, male members of the Royal Family are initially addressed as ‘Your Royal Highness’ followed by ‘Sir’, while female members are referred to as ‘Your Royal Highness’ and then ‘Ma’am’. However, following Harry and Meghan’s decision to step back as senior working royals in 2020, they relinquished their HRH titles.
The couple’s office previously stated that the four-day visit would prioritize mental health, community resilience, and veteran support, in addition to private meetings and special projects.
Apart from scheduled public visits, the couple will engage in private commercial activities. Meghan is scheduled for an on-stage interview at a “girls’ weekend” retreat in Sydney, with tickets priced at £1,400.
Notably, not all tickets for the event have been sold out, as indicated by the Her Best Life podcast’s recent Instagram post announcing “final last-minute availability.” Initially advertised as an exclusive event limited to 300 guests, organizers hinted at additional room availability, underscoring the necessity of security clearance for attendees with strict mobile phone restrictions.
The retreat featuring Meghan was announced by Gemma O’Neill, host of the Her Best Life podcast, offering a luxury weekend retreat with yoga sessions, panel discussions, and a disco party for women seeking connection, relaxation, and fun.
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