AmerLisa

Just following the trend and helping the helpless.....

Manc

I can deny it........ People still go to Versailles even without the French royalty......

But again, I'll ask the question.

Why should your family in Durham, and my family in Altrincham pay taxes towards the upkeep of Londons tourist trade? What's in it for them?

DeltaSierra70

Many Americans go first to London because the feel they'd miss out on something if they didn't, then travel to where they think their real roots are.
Plus there would be the "What! You didn't do the Tower, or Buck-ing-ham Palace?" when they went back.

Bob

and on top of that, the tax spending does go in to the general pool...plus the royalty only costs the average person a couple pennies a year, so much better value than most other venues.

cindyabs

I have to agree, while the royal aspect is interesting, I would and do sightsee for the historical and geographical attractions.

cindyabs

One technicality in one of the earliest posts, William NOT wearing a ring is nothing new his father and grandfather didn't either. Personally, I don't understand that one, if the bride does so should the groom.......

Thydney

I don't think that people specifically come to the UK just to see the Queen but I do think that all the images of the royals/ceremonial will help refresh peoples minds that it's still here an inspire them to visit.

cindyabs

Sure, but there is so much else to see that they shouldn't think that the royal aspect is the only thing worth seeing.


Also, I really think getting the Hanoverians in with all their Germanic cousin marriages etc kind of diluted the UKness of the royal family until the Queen Mum got into the act. I see Kate is descended from "The Other Boleyn Girl" and arguably Henry VIII.

Manc

that's where 95% of the planes land........

Sally Redux

Firstly I agree tourists would come anyway, and secondly, even if this were a factor, I don't think a country should base the way it's governed on perceived interest to visitors.

Manc

nail meet head.

meauxna

er

Anyway, that's what I was just saying to the DH (who wasn't listening, I'm sure).. the royals hardly "rule", they are somewhat ornamental. They're a symbolic part of government, but don't really 'run' the government.

fatbrit

How much would a weekly audience with Obama be worth?

AmerLisa

Agree, on both counts....

Manc

all the more reason to bin them.