Why the Duchess of Cambridge wasn't at Meghan's baby shower

Meghan Markle has taken a short break from her royal duties recently, as she celebrated her baby shower with some of her closest friends in New York.

The Duchess was joined by 15 of her pals for the special party, including stylist Jessica Mulroney, designer Misha Nonoo, Serena Williams, and Amal Clooney.

But there was one person noticably missing - Meghan's sister-in-law, the Duchess of Cambridge.

Catherine wasn't among the guests at the baby shower, held at The Mark hotel, but it's thought that there's a very good reason for her absence.

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In the UK, it is currently half term, meaning many of the nation's children are off school - including Kate and Prince William's, Prince George and Princess Charlotte. George currently attends Thomas's Battersea, while Charlotte is at Willcocks Nursery School, just minutes from Kensington Palace.

And it's been reported that Catherine and her husband made the most of their kid's time off, taking the opportunity to relax on a family holiday.

The Sun have alleged that the Cambridge's have headed off on a private family skiing trip, to enjoy some quality time together during a rare break in their schedules.

Skiing is a popular pastime for Catherine, William and their children. In fact, three years ago, before the arrival of Prince Louis, the family took a holiday to Courchevel, a luxury French Alps ski resort.

Other reports have suggested that the family have spent some of the week at their country home, Anmer Hall, where they often go when the royal couple have a break from their royal duties back in London.

And we're sure that Catherine and all the royals will be holding their own family celebration for the impending arrival of Harry and Meghan's baby, which is said to be due in late April, early May.

Meghan's trip to New York was a rare opportunity for the mother-to-be to spend quality time with her closest friends, many of whom are scattered across the globe.

The Duchess has of course now made her permanent home in the UK with Prince Harry, so the baby shower was likely a lovely chance to see her pals for the last time before her new arrival makes their appearance.