The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are set to embark on their first visit to Australia since 2018, with Meghan Markle taking centre stage at a high-profile 'girls weekend' retreat in Sydney next month. This exclusive event, marketed as an "unforgettable weekend for women ready to reconnect, recharge and have some serious fun," offers attendees a chance to engage in powerful conversations, relaxation, and luxury activities by the ocean.
Luxury Retreat Comes with a Hefty Price Tag
Tickets for the multi-day event start at an eye-watering £1,439 per person, covering accommodation at a beach-side Sydney hotel, access to three days of events including a gala dinner, yoga and meditation sessions, and a disco celebration. For those seeking a more intimate experience, VIP tickets are available at £1,705, which include guaranteed seating in the front two rows at the gala dinner with Meghan and a group table photo with the Duchess of Sussex.
Controversy Over Past Royal Pay Comments
The trip has reignited discussions about Meghan's previous royal tour to Australia in 2018, during which she reportedly expressed frustration over not being paid for walkabouts. According to a book by former royal correspondent Valentine Low, titled "Courtiers: The Hidden Power Behind the Crown," Meghan enjoyed the public attention but questioned the purpose of shaking hands with countless strangers, allegedly saying, "I can't believe I'm not getting paid for this."
This anecdote, sourced from unnamed staff members, contrasts with her public image as an "inspirational role model" during that tour, which included 76 engagements across Australia, Fiji, Tonga, and New Zealand over 16 days. The current retreat, with its premium pricing, highlights a shift from unpaid royal duties to paid private appearances, sparking debate among fans and critics alike.
Prince Harry's Parallel Engagement in Melbourne
While Meghan headlines the Sydney retreat, Prince Harry will also be active in Australia, speaking at the InterEdge Summit in Melbourne. This professional development summit focuses on creating mentally healthy, safe, and high-performing workplaces, with tickets starting at £1,054. Proceeds from ticket sales will benefit Lifeline, a mental health charity, underscoring the couple's ongoing philanthropic efforts.
Details of the Upcoming Visit
A spokesman for the couple confirmed that Prince Harry and Meghan will visit Australia in mid-April for a mix of private, business, and philanthropic engagements in Sydney and Melbourne. Further details are expected to be released soon, though it is believed their children, Archie and Lilibet, will not accompany them on this trip.
The event's advertisement promises an "intimate luxury weekend" designed to bring women together, but the high costs have left some fans shocked. With VIP tickets offering a group photo for an extra £266 per person, the retreat underscores the commercial aspects of the Sussexes' post-royal ventures, blending personal branding with exclusive experiences.
