William, Kate 52K Flight, One Way Ticket Stirs Controversy
Recent reports have revealed that Prince William and his wife Kate Middleton spent over 52,000 euros- $65,000 U.S. dollars- on one flight from Los Angeles to London earlier this year.
Buckingham Palace released their annual report of Royal Public Finances for the 2011-2012 tax year, and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's travel costs shocked the world on Tuesday.
Following their April 2011 wedding, Prince William and Kate as well as seven staff members boarded a British Airways flight at the end of their visit to Canada and the U.S. in July.
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Will and Kate were not the only Royal big spenders in the family though.
The highest travel prices went to Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall during their tour of the Middle East, South Africa, and Tanzania, totaling over a whopping $581,000.
Moreover, Prince William's brother Prince Harry spent $135,000 during his jubilee tour in March.
The report from Buckingham Palace revealed that travel was the biggest cost, followed by salaries for royal servants, hospitality and ceremonial duties. Despite the high costs, the public value of the money from the royal overseas visits is worthwhile.
"They strengthen Britain's relationships with other countries, and contribute to economic and strategic goals," the Palace report said, according to the Daily Star.
The Royal family remains internationally recognized and serve as ambassadors for their native Britain. Furthermore, Kate Middleton has cemented herself as one of today's top fashion icons.
Middleton has wowed the fashion world during her inaugural year as British royalty and even influenced fashion trends such as sheer stockings and long-sleeved wedding gowns.
Issues surrounding her style choices and personal life continue to make headlines on a regular basis, and the 30-year-old is a favorite among young girls across the globe.
Most recently, during Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee, the media scrutinized each outfit worn by the Duchess of Cambridge.
