Meghan Markle embraces 'normal' US life as Prince Harry's visa row escalates

Meghan Markle is embracing the simple joys of everyday life in Montecito — far from the royal spotlight.

In an interview with People magazine published on March 16, the Duchess of Sussex, 43, reflected on finding a sense of belonging in her California community while balancing public life with private moments.

“I have a couple of girlfriends up here — these are stay-at-home moms and working women with normal jobs, not in the public eye,” she shared. “We went from just connecting through our kids to having girls’ nights out or doing Pilates together.”

Despite her global fame, Meghan says she enjoys slipping into group fitness classes like anyone else. “I go to group classes that sometimes have 40 to 50 people in them and just walk in like, ‘Hi!’” she said, admitting it felt a little overwhelming at first.

One recent class had her laughing as she tried to keep up with an awkward bonding exercise.

“In the middle of class, they said, ‘Tell the person next to you they’re doing a great job, give them a fist bump.’” Meghan recalled looking around and gamely joining in. “I was like, ‘Well done!’ and then I turned to the other side, ‘Nicely done! Come on, guys!’”

For the mom of two, these small, everyday interactions are what make her life in the U.S. feel truly fulfilling. “I love it. It’s the best,” she said. “I had missed it. It’s awesome.”

Her appreciation for a “normal” life in the U.S. comes as Prince Harry faces renewed scrutiny over his visa. A U.S. think tank, the Heritage Foundation, has questioned how he obtained approval despite admitting to past drug use in Spare and his Netflix series.

Now, U.S. Judge Carl Nichols has ruled that on Tuesday, March 18, documents will be released indicating whether Harry was truthful in his immigration filings.

RELATED: Prince Harry in big trouble as judge in visa case makes shocking announcement