Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark has been spotted in Sydney, accompanied by his family, amidst recent controversies within the Danish royal family.
This appearance comes as his younger brother, Prince Joachim, is spending the Christmas season away from their mother, Queen Margrethe II, following a dispute over royal titles.
The Danish royal family faced a turbulent autumn when the king decided to strip Joachim's sons of their prince and princess titles, a decision that Joachim had openly opposed.
However, Frederik, aged 54, seems to be leaving the drama behind as he embraces a joyful holiday with his Australian wife, Princess Mary, and their children in her homeland for the first time in five years.
In contrast, Joachim is currently on an extended trip abroad with his wife, Princess Marie, and their children, although the exact location remains undisclosed.
Meanwhile, Queen Margrethe, aged 82, will spend the festive period at Marcellusborg Castle in Aarhus, a tradition she upholds annually.
Accompanied by her younger sister Princess Benedict and close friends, Margrethe's holiday plans were announced earlier.
In a significant move last September, the queen declared that her grandchildren Nikolai, Felix, Henrik, and Athena would no longer carry the title “Your Highness” starting January 2023.
Margrethe emphasized that this decision aimed to provide the children with freedom to shape their lives without the constraints of royal obligations.
However, Joachim expressed discontent with his mother's choice, asserting that his children were negatively impacted.
He later acknowledged a lack of communication within the royal family leading up to the announcement, emphasizing the need for improved relations.
Frederick and Mary recently engaged with locals during a shopping excursion in Bondi, Sydney, alongside their children.
The family's outing showcased a blend of style and casual elegance, with Mary donning a vibrant orange shirt paired with black leggings and beige sandals.
In contrast, Frederick sported a simple white polo shirt and blue jeans, accessorized with a white hat and sunglasses.
The children displayed their fashion sense, with Josephine in an American flag jumper, Vincent in a khaki shirt, and Isabella in a navy blazer.
Following their shopping spree, the family enjoyed a meal together, marking Princess Mary's return to Australia after five years with her entire family.
This private visit holds personal significance for the family, deviating from official royal duties.
Mary's last official trip to her homeland was in 2013, making this reunion a special and intimate occasion for the Danish royals.