Modern Princes and Princesses - the real fairy tale stories part 3

Oh my goodness, I completely forgot about the modern princes and princesses!!! There was the Scandinavian monarchy followed by the British, and then I got sidetracked by other stuff and forgot to post about the Spanish, Belgian and Dutch...
And a lot has happened in these monarchies during the past three years. Three new kings and queens have been crowned after King Juan Carlos of Spain, King Albert of Belgium and Queen Beatrix of Holland decided to abdicate. Personally, I think the older monarchs should be allowed to enjoy a proper retirement while their children take center stage. For King Albert especially it seemed like a necessary choice since he was having some health problems at the time. Queen Beatrix and King Juan Carlos on the other hand simply felt that it was time for the throne to be held by a new generation. As former King Juan Carlos stated in his televised address: "A new generation must be at the forefront...younger people with new energies."

For BBC coverage of the abdication of King Juan Carols, click HERE
For BBC coverage of the abdication of King Albert II, click HERE
For BBC coverage of the abdication of Queen Beatrix, click HERE

King Felipe & Queen Letizia of Spain

Wedding day splendor, 2004

Newly crowned, 2014

King Philippe & Queen Mathilde of Belgium

Wedding splendor, 1999

Newly crowned, 2013

King Willem-Alexander & Queen Maxima of Holland

Wedding splendor, 2002

Newly crowned, 2013