King Charles and Queen Camilla have officially kicked off their first full day in Samoa — and they’re embracing the island vibes! Let’s dive into the highlights of their incredible royal visit.<br />On October 24th, King Charles, 75, and Queen Camilla, 77, arrived in the Pacific island nation of Samoa, dressed in stunning all-white outfits. The King’s white bush jacket, trimmed with intricate embroidery by the Samoan School of Fine Art, set the tone for a day full of cultural connection.<br />The day began with a spectacular ‘ava ceremony, where the King participated in a sacred ritual. Charles poured some of the ‘ava drink onto the ground — a gesture of respect — and then took a sip. This special drink, made from the root of the ‘ava plant, symbolizes community and connection, according to Buckingham Palace.<br />In true island style, the royal couple were gifted stunning garlands: the King’s, made from dried pandanus fruit, and the Queen’s, a beautiful arrangement of flowers. Camilla kept cool in the humidity with a fan featuring her royal cipher.<br />But that wasn’t all! Charles and Camilla were presented with traditional gifts, including a hand-woven fabric and a whole pig, carried to them on a wooden platform by four Samoan chiefs. In keeping with custom, the pig will return to the village for local families to share.<br />As the royal motorcade passed through villages, the celebration was in full swing! Each village represented a different country of the 56-nation Commonwealth, with vibrant flags decorating their lawns. Men in traditional ‘ai lavalava skirts heralded the couple, blowing conch shells in a dramatic welcome.<br />Later, Charles and Camilla explored the charming Moata’a Village, home to just 1,420 people, to experience village life — a key part of the ‘fa’a Samoa,’ or the ‘Samoan Way.’ Charles took a walk through the village’s protected mangrove area, learning about their crucial role in supporting local ecosystems.<br />Meanwhile, Queen Camilla visited the local pastor school, where she watched children perform traditional songs and storytelling. As a strong advocate for literacy, Camilla was moved by the activities aimed at preserving cultural traditions through reading and education.<br />The royal visit leads up to the opening of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), with Queen Camilla shining a light on an issue close to her heart — tackling violence against women and girls. Speaking at a high-level CHOGM event, Camilla’s commitment to this global cause continues to inspire.<br />From ceremonial welcomes to heartfelt advocacy, King Charles and Queen Camilla’s visit to Samoa is one for the history books!<br />
