Confusion and criticism mark the presence of the Kings at Fitur 2023.

The presence of the Kings of Spain at the inauguration of the International Tourism Fair (Fitur) has generated an atmosphere of confusion and criticism, which has become commonplace at this annual event. This time, Felipe VI and Letizia were the center of attention, but not precisely for the warmth of their reception, rather for the discomforts and squabbles that surrounded their arrival. The day, marked by a gray and chaotic atmosphere, left more complaints than praises among attendees, who mostly expected a more conducive environment for the development of their tourism activities. From the moment the Kings made their entrance, a palpable tension was felt in the air. The security cordons, crowds, and traffic disruptions caused by their presence resulted in a parade of inconveniences for journalists and fair visitors. Although some monarchists were excited to see Felipe and Letizia up close, many others expressed their frustration at having to alter their routes due to the royal protocol. Thus, Fitur has become a showcase of uncomfortable situations that were even noticed by the Kings themselves. The Kings took a tour of the different stands at the fair, stopping briefly at exhibitions from various autonomous communities, as well as representations from other countries. However, most of the stops were quick, as if it were a visit to the doctor. In an emotional moment, Felipe and Letizia were presented with a painting representing the flag of Valencia, created using the trencadís technique by people with intellectual disabilities. This gesture of gratitude underscored the importance of the Crown's involvement in social causes, but it did not manage to overshadow the moments of tension experienced throughout the day. One of the most talked-about episodes occurred at the Aragón stand, where a drone caught Letizia's attention, prompting her to start asking questions about how it worked. In an attempt to hurry things along, Felipe interrupted his wife, exclaiming that they needed to continue. Ironically, it was the King himself who later took his time to greet an acquaintance, actor Juan Carlos Delgado, causing an additional delay in their agenda. Such situations have led to questions about the effectiveness of their protocol and the coordination of their team. Meanwhile, Letizia, noticing that her husband was not following the established script, decided to take the opportunity to snap a selfie with other visitors, which did not go unnoticed by the chief of protocol, who soon after asked her to continue with the tour. This scene illustrates the lack of synchronization between the two members of the royal couple, hinting at a dynamic that, while sometimes charming, also reflects the pressure and expectations they face at such events. The day at Fitur, far from being a moment of celebration and connection with the tourism sector, turned into a series of tense situations, where the interaction between the Kings and the public was not always as expected. Attendees' complaints were not only about the security measures but also about the lack of fluidity in the royal agenda, which was interrupted by moments of distraction and personal anecdotes. Criticism of the monarchy's presence at such an event has resurfaced, raising questions about the relevance of their visits and their ability to connect with the public. Many attendees wondered if they truly add value to the event or if their presence merely generates a series of inconveniences that detract from the focus on tourism and the exhibitors. Over the years, the relationship between the fair and the monarchy has evolved, but the feeling of discomfort seems to persist. While some see the presence of the Kings as a symbol of support and recognition for the sector, others perceive it as a mere spectacle that distorts the true purpose of a fair aimed at promoting tourism. The controversy generated around their visit to Fitur is not an isolated case; it reflects a broader tension between the public perception of the monarchy and its role in contemporary society. With each appearance, the royal family faces the challenge of reconciling its image with the expectations of a diverse audience that does not always see in them a reflection of their own aspirations and needs. In a rapidly changing world, the monarchy will need to find its place and relevance in a context that demands more than just a simple presence.