Members of the British Royal Family have certain traditions and policies that govern their rule and administration within Buckingham Palace. 

From strict etiquette, dress codes to the naming of newborn children, the Royals are expected to constantly adhere to the set guidelines. 

However, dating back to 2010, Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, proposed to his wife, the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, while on a romantic holiday at the idyllic Lewa Safari Camp in Kenya instead of his home country, the United Kingdom. 

The Duchess of Cambridge, Kate of Middleton, and Prince William. COURTESY

"The African continent holds a very special place in my heart. It is the place my father took my brother and me shortly after our mother passed on.

"And when deciding where best to propose to Catherine. I could think of no more fitting place than Kenya to get down on one knee," he told international news outlets. 

Prince William, whose full name is William Arthur Philip Louis Mountbatten-Windsor, proposed with his late mother's ring. The duo, however, didn't officially announce their engagement until the following month.

After their stay at the lodge, they both wrote heartfelt messages at the guestbook- reminiscing of the memories made.

"Thank you for such a wonderful 24 hours! Sadly no fish to be found but we had fun trying. I love the warm fires and candle lights—so romantic. Hope to be back soon," Kate wrote.

On the other hand, Prince William noted down the dates while cherishing the experience at the lodge. 

"20th-21st October 2010. Such fun to be back! Brought more clothes this time! Looked after so well. Thank you, guys! Look forward to next time, soon I hope," he stated.

The duo proceeded to tie the knot the following year in April at Westminster Abbey in London.  

"The Prince of Wales is delighted to announce the engagement of Prince William to Miss Catherine Middleton. The wedding will take place in the Spring or Summer of 2011 in London," read part of the statement from Buckingham Palace.

William had initially spent three months at the lodge after leaving secondary school- familiarising himself with the wild nature of the forests around Laikipia County. 

Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II at Windsor Castle in England on October 19, 2021. ALASTAIR GRANT, BY Brian Kimani/Kenyans.co.ke