“I’m slightly jet lagged,” Queen Camilla remarked after a recent state visit to the United States with King Charles III. Her aversion to flying has now led her to part ways with the King following their trip.
During this significant visit, King Charles III addressed a joint session of Congress, becoming only the second British monarch to do so after Queen Elizabeth II. His address garnered bipartisan standing ovations, underscoring his growing acceptance in American political circles.
Queen Camilla, however, struggled with the time difference and expressed her discomfort with air travel. She felt particularly jet lagged upon arriving in America due to the five-hour time difference between the UK and the East Coast. The royal couple attended various events, including a garden party and a gala dinner, but Camilla’s flying preferences influenced her plans.
Notably, Queen Camilla did not join King Charles III on his flight to Bermuda after their state visit. Instead, she opted for a commercial flight back to the UK, showcasing her desire to minimize time spent in the air. This decision reflects her longstanding discomfort with flying, which has been evident throughout her public life.
This trip marked Queen Camilla’s first visit to New York City since 1999 when she aimed to build public acceptance following Princess Diana’s death. Over the years, King Charles III has made a total of 24 visits to the United States, highlighting his strong ties with the nation.
The couple’s recent engagements have raised questions about how their differing travel preferences may impact future royal duties and appearances. As they navigate these challenges, both will likely continue balancing their responsibilities while considering personal comfort.
