A royal baby is on the way.
News that the Duchess of Cambridge is expecting has stirred a media frenzy, with international reporters camped outside a London hospital where Kate is receiving treatment for acute morning sickness.
There was fevered speculation in the press as to whether the duchess might be expecting twins, which is sometimes indicated by the sickness.
Nothing excites the British media like a royal story-- and a royal heir to the throne provided a welcome change amid bleak economic news.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) UNIDENTIFIED MAN SAYING:
"I think it is good news for the nation, everybody is looking for something to feel upbeat about at the moment, so from that point of view I think it is good news."
Although it was also front page news in Italy, many in Rome were indifferent.
(SOUNDBITE) (Italian) ROME RESIDENT MARISA TOMAIUOLI SAYING:
"At this time of crisis, frankly, I am interested in totally different news."
(SOUNDBITE) (Italian) DANIELE NICASTRO, SITTING ON THE BACK OF THE SCOOTER, SAYING IRONICALLY:
"You must be lucky to be concerned about this kind of thing. Really, with all the problems we have, of all things, you come and ask me about this?"
But for those who are grimacing about excessive media coverage in the months to come, one elderly woman summed it all up.
"What a show," she said.
