Belgian Royals

Their Royal Highnesses Prince Philippe and Princess Mathilde Celebrate the 500th anniversary of the birth of Gerard De Kremer in Rupelmode (VIDEO)

On March 4, 2012, Their Royal Highnesses Prince Philippe and Princess Mathilde of Belgium were in the town of Rupelmonde to celebrate the 500th anniversary of the birth of Gerard De Kremer (Gerardus Mercator).

During today’s celebrations the prince and princess placed flowers at the statue of Gerard De Kremer (Gerardus Mercator), who is best known for Mercator Projection World Map, in the town square as well as met with dozens of well-wishers.

Click here to view photos.

Click here to watch a video clip. (slow loading)

Source: La Monarchie Belge

Imperial Family of Japan

His Imperial Majesty Emperor Akihito of Japan Leaves the Hospital After Having a Successful Heart Bypass Surgery

On March 4, 2012, His Imperial Majesty Emperor Akihito of Japan was discharged from the University of Tokyo Hospital after undergoing heart bypass surgery on February 18, 2012.

In a press release, the Imperial Household Agency noted that the Emperor will “…rest at home for a week…”  Various sources claim that Emperor Akihito along with Empress Michiko will participate in a memorial on March 11, 2012, commemorating the one year anniversary of the devastating earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan last year.  The memorial will take place in Tohoku, Japan.

Meanwhile, His Imperial Highness Crown Prince Naruhito of Japan held an audience with Vietnam’s Ambassador to Japan, Doan Xuan Hung, whereupon he presented his credentials to the heir to the Japanese throne on March 2, 2012.

Sources: Japan Times, Associated Press, and BBC News

Photo courtesy of Daylife

British Royals

His Royal Highness Prince Harry of Wales Having a Blast in Belize (VIDEOS)

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His Royal Highness Prince Harry of Wales arrived at the Philip Goldson International Airport in Belize on March 2, 2012 to begin his tour of Belize, the Bahamas, Jamaica,and Brazil as part of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

Click the links below to watch a video, read several articles as well as to view photos.

British Royals

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, The Duchess of Cornwall and The Duchess of Cambridge Visit Fortnum & Mason Store in London (VIDEOS)

On March 1, 2012, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II along with the Duchess of Cornwall and the Duchess of Cambridge visited Fortnum & Mason in London, England.

During the visit Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II “….officially opening the Fortnum and Mason Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon…” as well as unveiled a plaque.

Click the links below to watch videos as well as photos.

British Royals

His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales Celebrates St. David’s Day (VIDEO)

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On March 1, 2012, His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales was in Hounslow, England where he celebrated St. Day’s Day with the 1st Battalion Welsh Guards at the Cavalry Barracks.  During today’s celebrations the heir to the British throne presented ceremonial leeks to the soldiers.

According to the Press Association:

The prince began his visit with a private meeting with former Welsh Guards in the officers’ mess before presenting long service medals to several soldiers.

Before spending half an hour mingling and sharing a drink with the soldiers, Charles presented an injured Afghanistan veteran with his medal for serving in Helmand province.

Afterward, the Prince of Wales along with various soldiers played Paintball.  How fun.   🙂

Click here to watch a news report (article included).

Sources: Princeofwales.gov and Press Association

Photo courtesy of Daylife/AP

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