Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s arrival in Portugal leaves locals unimpressed: We’ve seen ‘richer and much more famous people’

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s arrival in Portugal leaves locals unimpressed: We’ve seen ‘richer and much more famous people’

**Headline: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Arrival in Portugal Leaves Locals Unimpressed: “We’ve Seen Richer and Much More Famous People”**

In an unexpected turn of events, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s highly anticipated arrival in Portugal has failed to impress locals, with many expressing indifference to the presence of the royal couple. Despite the couple’s global fame, residents of Lisbon and surrounding areas have openly stated that they have encountered “richer and much more famous people” in the past, and do not see any reason to treat the Duke and Duchess of Sussex as a particularly remarkable attraction.

The couple arrived in Portugal for what was described as a “low-key” vacation, rumored to be a break from their increasingly busy schedules in the United States. They were seen strolling through the historic streets of Lisbon’s Alfama district, but their presence barely turned heads, as onlookers appeared unmoved by their arrival.

**”We’ve Seen It All Before”**

Several locals who witnessed Harry and Meghan’s public outing were quick to downplay the significance of the visit. “They were just walking around like any other tourists,” said Catarina Silva, a 32-year-old café owner. “Honestly, we’ve seen richer and more famous people come through here. Celebrities visit Lisbon all the time—actors, football stars, and even billionaires. They just don’t have that same wow factor here.”

Another Lisbon resident, João Martins, 45, added, “Portugal is a place that attracts people from all walks of life, and while I respect who they are, they’re not that special to us. People here are used to seeing famous faces. We’ve had world leaders and actors pass through our streets. Nothing about their visit felt extraordinary.”

**A Royal Couple Without the Royal Sparkle?**

The couple’s visit, which was meant to be a quiet getaway, has instead drawn attention for its apparent lack of the usual royal pomp. There were no large crowds gathered, no special security measures in place, and no sign of the usual royal entourage that accompanies the couple during public appearances.

Experts speculate that the lack of fanfare could be due to the increasing distance between Harry and Meghan and the royal family, which has led to a decline in public interest. “The Sussexes’ celebrity status seems to have lost some of its shine,” said royal commentator Linda Fairbrother. “Portugal is known for hosting high-profile visitors, and it’s clear that locals here have grown accustomed to international stars. As much as Harry and Meghan are part of the British royal family, their brand doesn’t carry the same weight in Europe as it once did.”

**Locals Speak Out**

While some took a more indifferent stance, others were openly critical. “They’re just like any other rich couple who want to be treated like royalty, but without all the responsibilities that come with it,” said Luís Ferreira, a 38-year-old shopkeeper. “I don’t understand why they think we should make such a fuss about them.”

On social media, reactions were similarly lukewarm. “Harry and Meghan may have been big news in the UK and US, but here, they’re just another couple walking the streets,” wrote one user on Twitter. “Maybe if they did something more than just flaunt their wealth, they’d get the attention they want.”

**The Sussexes in Portugal: A Missed Opportunity?**

The couple’s decision to visit Portugal, a country with a relatively small royal following, has also raised questions about their plans for future public appearances. Some royal watchers believe that the lack of excitement around the visit could signal a shift in how Harry and Meghan are perceived globally, particularly as they move further away from their royal roles.

“Portugal isn’t really the place where you expect a royal family to make waves,” said international relations expert Thomas Richards. “Their visit didn’t seem to align with their usual causes, and it didn’t strike the right note with the locals. Maybe it’s time for them to reconsider how they present themselves in Europe.”

**What’s Next for the Sussexes?**

While Prince Harry and Meghan Markle continue to have a strong following in the United States and among some royal enthusiasts, their recent visit to Portugal has raised questions about their continued relevance on the global stage. Whether this marks the beginning of a gradual decline in their public appeal remains to be seen.

Despite the lukewarm reception in Portugal, the Duke and Duchess are said to be unperturbed, with sources close to the couple confirming they are already planning their next public engagement in the coming weeks, though details remain scarce.

As the Sussexes’ European visit continues to unfold, it’s clear that not every destination will offer the same star-studded reception they once received on the world stage.