Queen Elizabeth II Broke Protocol for Morocco Feast

Queen Elizabeth II, renowned for her adherence to royal protocol, notably relaxed her usual standards during a 1980 visit to Morocco. While on a four-day state tour with Prince Philip, the late monarch was pictured eating roasted meat using only her hands during a desert banquet hosted by King Hassan II. This practice, unusual for the Queen, was a deliberate sign of respect for Moroccan customs.

The 1980 state visit was documented as one of the more arduous tours during Queen Elizabeth's seven-decade reign. Royal author Robert Hardman noted the tour's difficulties, including King Hassan II's unexplained disappearances and his attempts to criticize royal staff, prompting a firm response from the Queen.

Despite the logistical challenges and diplomatic nuances, which saw many pre-arranged events deviate significantly from their original plans, the Queen was reportedly fond of King Hassan II. She publicly thanked him for his hospitality, and sources suggested she may have even found enjoyment in the unique circumstances of the visit.

This instance of protocol deviation aligns with other occasions where Queen Elizabeth II occasionally relaxed strict royal guidelines. For example, she once advised Michelle Obama to disregard protocol, stating, "it's all rubbish." She also famously touched up her own lipstick in public, a departure from the expectation that royal women should always appear pristine without on-the-go touch-ups.