Prince Harry and Meghan Markle kickstarted a rumored house hunt in Portugal because life in the US did not end up being “what they thought it would be,” according to a former palace staffer.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have reportedly splashed out on one of 300 soon-to-be constructed residences at the 722-acre CostaTerra Golf and Ocean Club — a plush development about 81 miles south of Lisbon.
The pair allegedly forked over more than $4.7 million on the purchase.
According to King Charles’ former personal butler Grant Harrold, the couple’s rumored move to Europe shows that they’re “edging their way back in the direction of the UK.”
“Their life in the US — there’s so many people that move away and move back, so I don’t think there’d be anything unusual about Harry and Meghan leaving the US for Europe,” Harrold told The Post.
“But maybe living in the States wasn’t what they thought it would be and that could be why they’re now supposedly edging their way back in the direction of the UK.”
Harrold previously told The Post that the pair’s rumored move signals their attempt at a reconciliation with the royal family.
While it’s unclear why the pair opted for a home in Portugal, the couple’s connections could be a reason.
What’s more, Portugal’s climate is similar to that of Montecito, Calif., which could also have played a part in the appeal.
“There’s no obvious reason for choosing Portugal as a location to live, but let’s not forget that it’s not unusual for royals to set up overseas,” Harrold notes.
“Some have historically moved to France, Princess Margaret used to spend a lot of time in Mauritius, so Harry would be following in the footsteps of other royals who have done something similar.”
Before the couple enjoys their new life in Portugal, Harry and Markle face one major hurdle to overcome in obtaining European Union citizenship.
Such a citizenship would allow the couple to travel freely through the Schengen Area, which covers 29 countries.
A trans-Atlantic move brings up the question of the pair’s business ventures, and how they’ll manage to juggle them from the EU.
The “Suits” alum, 43, has yet to launch her highly anticipated lifestyle brand American Riviera Orchard, with its release date being thrust into doubt over an ongoing trademark snafu.
Harrold notes that the couple’s business ventures “can very much continue wherever they are in the world” — despite reports that the duo’s professional relationship is in a “very bad state.”
Harrold also believes that the pair will manage to salvage their star-studded Hollywood friendships.
“The friendships they have I’m sure they will keep, as it is for anyone who moves abroad, friends will come and visit. I don’t think it will be the end of their celebrity friendships at all.”
