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King Charles III and Queen Camilla were gifted a very unique drink, among other traditional gifts, as part of a special ceremony during their latest trip to the Pacific Island nation of Samoa on Thursday (October 24).
According to People, the beloved royals attended the ceremony at the National University of Samoa, where they were offered an "'ava drink," in addition to other gifts including beautiful, hand-woven fabrics, garlands, and a "whole pig" (to be returned to a local village for families to enjoy following the event).
So what exactly is a "mildly narcotic" Samoan 'ava drink?
People mentioned that this "slightly intoxicating" beverage (representing community and connection) is crafted by the "meticulous" pounding of the kava root and offers a "peppery" taste profile. Per tradition, the King poured some out on the ground before taking his first sip after being honored as "High Chief of Samoa."
The King, who continues to battle an undisclosed form of cancer, and Queen's visit to the welcoming country arrives weeks after King Charles debuted a few Samoan dance moved taught to him by professional rugby player Freddie Tuilagi at a reception following the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting held at St. James’s Palace on October 2nd.
Watch video footage of King Charles learning a traditional Samoan dance before traveling to the country to fully immerse himself in the culture below.