Meghan Markle, on the first day of her visit to Australia with Prince Harry, chose to forego her royal title and clarified how she preferred to be addressed. The couple received a warm welcome from numerous supporters at the start of their Australian journey, where they interacted with patients at a children’s hospital, taking selfies and exchanging greetings. Meghan was presented with flowers and a welcoming card amidst cheers during their visit to the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne. Later, Meghan visited a women’s shelter before reuniting with Harry at a veteran’s museum during the initial phase of their trip down under.
During their visit, Steve Cotterill, the Australian poet laureate at the Australian National Veterans’ Art Museum, inquired how they wished to be addressed. In response, Harry and Meghan indicated a preference for informality, with Harry suggesting, “However you like,” and Meghan proposing, “Call me Meg.” Reports from The Telegraph suggest that staff at the Royal Children’s Hospital were informed that addressing the couple as “Harry and Meghan” was acceptable, showcasing the couple’s relaxed demeanor despite their former royal status.
Traditionally, male members of the Royal Family are initially addressed as ‘Your Royal Highness’ and then ‘Sir’, while female members are referred to as ‘Your Royal Highness’ followed by ‘Ma’am’. However, following Harry and Meghan’s decision to step back from senior royal duties in 2020, they relinquished their HRH titles.
The couple’s office announced that their four-day visit would emphasize mental health, community resilience, and support for veterans and their families, in addition to private meetings and special projects. Apart from public engagements, they will also participate in private commercial activities. Meghan is scheduled to be featured in an interview at a high-end “girls’ weekend” retreat in Sydney, with ticket prices starting at £1,400.
Despite initial claims of a sold-out event, organizers recently disclosed last-minute availability for the retreat, indicating that not all tickets had been purchased. Attendees are required to have security clearance and are prohibited from using mobile phones during the event. Meghan’s participation in the retreat was announced by Gemma O’Neill, host of the Her Best Life podcast organizing the exclusive weekend, designed to provide women with a unique experience focused on conversations, relaxation, and entertainment.
The retreat’s agenda includes yoga classes, panel discussions, a fireside chat with Meghan, and a disco party. Guests can also opt for VIP tickets, priced at £1,670, offering a group photo opportunity with the duchess.