King Charles visits Bermuda solo as Queen Camilla heads back to UK

King Charles has arrived in Bermuda for a solo royal visit, just hours after wrapping up what many are calling a remarkable state trip to America.

President Donald Trump saw off King Charles and Queen Camilla personally from Washington on Thursday, following his announcement of the elimination of tariffs on Scottish whisky—a move he credited to the royal couple's involvement.

Mark Kent, head of the Scotch Whisky Association, noted that "distillers can now relax a bit" after the welcome news.

This major trade development is set to affirm Downing Street's choice to send the monarch on what was seen by some as an ambitious diplomatic mission to strengthen the UK-US alliance.

Before leaving, the King and Queen shared their appreciation for America in a post on X, saying: "We leave behind part of our heart and take a bit of yours back with us. Until next time, God Bless America."

The royal aircraft, the UK Government's VIP Airbus, landed at LF Wade International Airport as the sun set on Thursday, proudly flying both the Royal Standard and Bermuda's flag from the cockpit.

Governor Andrew Murdoch and Premier David Burt, joined by his wife Kristin, greeted Charles on the runway, as the Royal Bermuda Regiment presented an honor guard.

The arrival proceedings were intentionally low-key, with the full display of ceremony and a 21-gun salute scheduled for Friday's official welcome.

The royal aircraft, the UK Government's VIP Airbus, landed at LF Wade International Airport as the sun set on Thursday, proudly flying both the Royal Standard and Bermuda's flag from the cockpit.

As the King cheerfully told the journalists traveling with him "you made it" before getting into his vehicle, the spotlight shifts to today's busy agenda.

King Charles will visit Trunk Island to explore the "Living Classroom," a learning initiative aimed at educating youth about the local environment and promoting environmental responsibility.

The city of Hamilton will feature a reception at City Hall, where the Premier and Mayor will introduce the monarch to local council members.

An especially unique event will have King Charles meet Michael Frith, the Bermuda-born creator of many beloved Muppets characters, and his wife Kathryn Mullen, who will demonstrate their famous puppetry and discuss its influences from Bermuda.

The King's cultural schedule proceeds at the Royal Naval Dockyard, where he will visit the Keep Yard and enjoy a performance by the National Gombey Dance Troupe alongside local residents.

This traditional Bermudian dance is one of the island’s most distinctive cultural art forms.

The day's activities will end with a garden party at Government House, where guests from various segments of Bermudian society will gather.