Prince William & Kate Middleton's Royal Caribbean Tour Was 'A Real Eye-Opener,' Source Divulges: They 'Are Focusing On The Future'
When Kate Middleton and Prince William visited the Caribbean for their royal tour, they were met with protests — something that they didn't anticipate.
Now, the pair "are overwhelmed with remorse," a source told Us Weekly. “It was certainly more challenging than expected given the protests. They obviously know the history, but being there during the protests was a real eye-opener.”
After returning home from Jamaica, Belize and The Bahamas, the two want to "strengthen their relationship" with other leaders within the Commonwealth, as those three countries are not independent and still under Queen Elizabeth's rule.
“They can’t change what has happened in the past so are focusing on future," the insider shared, adding that the royals will "work closely with former colonies" going forward.
“Obviously William and Kate want the former colonies to remain part of the commonwealth,” the insider noted. “But [they] will support whatever decision they make, including becoming independent.”
They “have organized a meeting with the Palace to discuss their intentions and will put their point across even if it means being at odds with The Firm,” the source continued. “They want what is right for the people.”
Despite the challenges, the duo enjoyed "meeting new and interesting people," the insider said. “They loved dancing and getting to know the locals in Belize and trying the local cuisine. Kate loves spicy food so it was right up her alley.”
Additionally, their three kids — Prince George, 8, Princess Charlotte, 6, and Prince Louis, 3 — were left at home, which was a nice change of pace for the Duke and Duchess. So much so, they “found it refreshing to have a few child-free days” to themselves," the insider revealed. “It’s been the first time in years [that] they’ve been away together without the kids for this long. But by the end of the trip, [they] couldn’t wait to get back and hug them again.”
The two spoke out about the tensions via Instagram, issuing a lengthy statement. "I know that this tour has brought into even sharper focus questions about the past and the future. In Belize, Jamaica and The Bahamas, that future is for the people to decide upon," the prince began. "Foreign tours are an opportunity to reflect. You learn so much. What is on the minds of Prime Ministers. The hopes and ambitions of school children. The day-to-day challenges faced by families and communities."
"But we have thoroughly enjoyed spending time with communities in all three countries, understanding more about the issues that matter most to them," he continued. "Catherine and I are committed to service. For us that's not telling people what to do. It is about serving and supporting them in whatever way they think best, by using the platform we are lucky to have."
