Norway has woken up to unexpected news. Princess Mette-Marit has left her palace, and she has done so for the sake of her daughter, Princess Ingrid Alexandra. Three weeks after settling in Australia, Ingrid has already received her first visitor.
The heiress, second in line to the throne, has quickly adapted to her new life. She has started her social sciences studies in Sydney, specializing in international relations and political economy.
Ingrid has acted as hostess and has welcomed her parents, Prince Haakon and Princess Mette-Marit. The family has taken a secret summer getaway, and the visit has taken place amid a double controversy. The situation has created a new media crisis for the Crown.
Princess Mette-Marit leaves Norway to help her daughter
The purpose of the trip has been clear, according to the magazine SE og HØR, the intention has been to help Ingrid in her first steps. The young woman has experienced this stage with great excitement.
"It'll be exciting. It'll give me new perspectives both in European politics and international politics. I'm sure I'll learn a lot," she has stated.
Princess Mette-Marit has stayed several days in Sydney and has helped her daughter settle in. She has organized her apartment and her university routine with her. Meanwhile, Prince Haakon joined the trip later, since he stayed in Portugal surfing.
Sources close to the family have confirmed that Mette-Marit has sought advice from Queen Mary of Denmark. The monarch is Ingrid's baptismal godmother and has also experienced sending a child abroad.
Princess Mette-Marit's decision has surprised Norway
The visit has coincided with a delicate moment for the Norwegian royal house. In the country, some sectors have criticized the cost of the stay, while others have questioned that Mette-Marit has left the palace during the official summer work period. However, the decision has been firm: Mette-Marit has put her daughter before protocol.
In recent days, mother and daughter have spent time together in cafés, bookstores, and walks along Sydney's bay. The young princess has shown her university campus and has introduced some classmates. She has explained her subjects and her future plans.
Ingrid has stayed in Australia to continue her education. The decision has made it clear that, above royal etiquette, the family has put the well-being of the young heiress first.