Felipe has meanwhile taken over most public functions from his father, who has undergone surgery nine times in less than four years.

"The prince, in comparison with other political leaders, is the only one who unites everyone," said Fermin J. Urbiola, a journalist who has written several books on the king.

Over half of Spaniards, 56 percent, believe the prince could restore the monarchy's prestige if he took over as king from his father, according to the Sigma Dos poll.

For a prince, Felipe is seen as leading a relatively modest lifestyle with his wife Letizia, a former television news anchor, and their two daughters.

"He makes a good impression because he is very tall, he dresses elegantly and is very polite but at the same time he is warm, he puts you at ease," said Carlos Moreno Saiz, 39, who met the prince at a recent reception for public workers.

"I think he has the people skills to be king."

About the broadcaster:

Anne Ruisi is an editor at China Daily online with more than 30 years of experience as a newspaper editor and reporter. She has worked at newspapers in the U.S., including The Birmingham News in Alabama and City Newspaper of Rochester, N.Y.

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