They knew it was going to be a tricky assignment, overshadowed by controversy about Britain's colonial past. But the King and Queen's visit to Kenya went much better than hoped, and sources put that down to Charles' not-so-secret weapon - his wife.
Royal insiders say Camilla has given Charles the confidence to be more relaxed and self-assured when it comes to all aspects of his job, and his more "chilled out" demeanour is particularly noticeable on overseas tours like the recent one to Kenya, the first Commonwealth country he has visited since becoming King last year.
Many of the people he interacted with during the four-day trip - particularly younger Kenyans - commented on how laidback he seemed.
"King Charles is really cool," says 23-year-old Veronica Michael, who met His Majesty in Mombasa. "He was not formal, but friendly."
Adds Rhoda Asiyo, 26, "The King was very chilled out."
A lot of that is down to Camilla, 76, whose very presence reassures the King, according to royal biographer easy ee the Christopher Wilson. "Despite all the trappings of majesty, it's cold and lonely at the top and it's easy to see the comfort she provides him."
Body language expert Darren Stanton has noticed the difference in Charles, who turned 75 last week, and says just having Camilla nearby while he's carrying out engagements helps to keep the King calm.
"He likes her to be very close by as she's a strong woman with a strong personality," says Darren. "It's clear that at times when he's looking a little nervous, she's always there right by his side - she is the calm one in a crisis."
Charles has always tended to display tell-tale gestures when he's anxious, such as playing with his cufflinks.
Denne historien er fra November 13, 2023-utgaven av New Zealand Woman's Weekly.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent ? Logg på
Denne historien er fra November 13, 2023-utgaven av New Zealand Woman's Weekly.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
Sweet SUCCESS
Delicious twists on traditional favourites
Calzone CRAVING
Anything you can put on top of a pizza can go inside these air fryer Italian turnovers
Kai & kindness - ‘OUR RECIPE FOR A GOOD LIFE'
The foodie and her brother have dished up a cookbook full of comfort
Kia Ora Dame! 'I HAD A BIGGER PURPOSE'
It could have taken a toll on her, but Naida's phone greeting started a legacy
Dame Hinewehi's healing haka - 'IT'S GOING TO CHANGE LIVES'
Beating a world record is personal for the music therapy founder
Unbreakable Mamie - 'I'M READY TO FAMOUS!' BE
The TV star and model is excited about what the future holds
Below Deck detective - CAPTAIN LEE'S SEA CHANGE
The superyacht hero's family tragedy has led him to navigate scary waters
Swings & roundabouts - OWEN'S BIG KID PROJECT
Playtime's a whole lot more fun thanks to the radio host
Haunted by tragedy - KATE'S SHOCK LOSS
The star is still dealing with the death of her dad when she was aged four
Top-secret royal plan - BRINGING HARRY HOME
Disillusioned with life in the US, the prince is reaching out to friends in the UK