New York’s glitterati were today preparing to open their hearts — and their wallets — to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge as they touch down for a whirlwind visit to the city.
Prince William and five-month pregnant wife, Kate, have left their 16-month-old son, Prince George, at home as they launch a charitable charm offensive on the Big Apple.
The royals are, like William’s late mother before him, staying at the luxurious Carlyle Hotel, where a suite can cost £9,000 a night, until Tuesday.
Within hours after touching down on a scheduled flight from London with their seven-strong entourage – including Kate’s hairdresser, Amanda Cook Tucker, who is being paid for by the couple privately –will be out schmoozing some of the city’s wealthiest men and women at a private dinner.