Back in the public eye for the first time since confirmation he will step back as a senior royal on March 31st 2020, the Duke of Sussex was very clear on how he wants to be known. As he took to the stage in Edinburgh to talk about sustainable travel and eco tourism, he asked to be introduced as ‘Harry’.
Both the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will stop using their style of HRH from the end of March as they move away from royal duties. In recent days, there has been speculation about how they will describe themselves following a statement that they will not be using the title ‘Sussex Royal’ for future ventures. And in a clear sign that a different way is opening up for them, the sixth in line to the throne insisted on being called ‘Harry’ as he took part in a summit in Edinburgh for Travalyst which was launched last autumn in Amsterdam.
Travalyst aims to change travel and tourism to make it more sustainable and to help protect communities and destinations across the world. The long term aim, as explained in a Sussex Royal Instagram post to mark today’s event, is supporting ways in which ”tourism can lead the way in supporting communities and protecting the environment”.
The Duke of Sussex was joined by members of the tourist industry across Scotland as well as event partners Visit Scotland and EIC, a not for profit organisation working in energy innovation. Travalyst’s founding members include Booking.com, Trip.com, TripAdvisor and Visa.
Prince Harry arrived in the UK earlier this week, flying into London before taking the train to Edinburgh for today’s event. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have several planned engagements in the coming weeks before they step back from their royal roles next month. And if today’s event is any indication, we know it could well be first name terms in their future lives.
