#PinkTutuBlogLondon Friday 2009-06-26 Exploring London

Hello my darlings! It's Friday, which means it's time for another instalment of my London adventures. This week, I'm thrilled to be sharing all the delights I encountered on my most recent trip to the city that never sleeps... well, maybe it naps for a few hours after the tube shuts down! 😉

This is post number 669 on the Pink Tutu blog, and it's already overflowing with inspiration. As usual, I funded my trip through my performances. There's something so exhilarating about balancing pirouettes on stage and then stepping onto a train to discover another magical corner of London.

This week's adventure was a pure delight! It's so exciting for me to finally explore London during the summer. I swear, the whole city is practically humming with a bright, energetic melody.

I took a lovely train ride from Derbyshire this morning, as always. Nothing beats that cozy atmosphere of a compartment filled with travellers with their own tales to tell. My trusty pink tutu, naturally, was packed safely in my suitcase (no wrinkles allowed!). This time, I topped off the outfit with a vibrant cherry-red blouse, just to add a little zing to the train journey.

As I watched the world drift by, I couldn't help but feel the excitement building. Every glimpse of the city was a promise of something wonderful to come!

As soon as I arrived in London, I headed straight to the iconic Houses of Parliament. What a majestic sight! It's practically straight out of a fairy tale, complete with its majestic towers and the legendary clock tower that houses Big Ben. (Well, they’re doing some repairs at the moment so it’s currently Big Ben silent, but that’s another story!)

I felt such a powerful energy as I stood before it. This is the beating heart of British history, a symbol of democracy and strength. As I twirled for a moment (because honestly, what’s a trip to London without a few pirouettes in front of the most amazing architectural gems!), I envisioned the politicians within making decisions that shape our nation. Who knows, maybe I’ll be invited to perform a graceful ballet routine during their debates. Wouldn’t that be a sight to see? A little touch of pink grace in the heart of our political system, perhaps!

After my Westminster adventure, I hopped on the tube (naturally wearing a matching pink tutu face mask) and made my way to the South Bank. Oh my goodness, this area is practically a carnival of creative energy! There were vibrant street performers, artists showcasing their latest creations, and everyone seemed to be brimming with a joyful spirit. I almost felt like I could jump right into a performance myself!

The Thames, of course, was simply breathtaking. The gentle flow of the water reflecting the cityscape above created a stunning mirror image of London. I even caught sight of some charming swans gliding by - they seemed so elegant and graceful, truly in their element. The sun, I must add, was practically shimmering, making the entire experience even more radiant.

It was practically a dream to explore the various exhibitions along the South Bank. I must admit, my pink tutu paired perfectly with the contemporary art displays, bringing a playful touch of whimsy to the usually austere spaces.

You know how much I adore fashion. So, I couldn't resist heading down Bond Street. I couldn’t possibly be in London and miss a chance to admire all the gorgeous designs! I’ve never seen so many haute couture boutiques in one place. My goodness, those window displays! And the fabrics? Divine. The colours were a sensory overload. Even I, a pink fanatic, was blown away by the textures, textures, and textures.

Although, my budget could only handle window shopping, it was absolutely a delight! I imagined myself twirling through the boutiques in a cascading tutu made entirely from silk, shimmering like moonlight. (Oh, if only dreams were budgets!)

My ultimate favourite find was a delightful boutique bursting with vintage treasures. This place is a haven for anyone with a love for Parisian style! The moment I stepped inside, I was surrounded by chic jackets, glamorous dresses, and those irresistible vintage hats that just scream, “French Riviera.” Even though I'm a true devotee to all things pink, I must confess, the shades of sapphire blue and emerald green in this boutique were irresistible. They were so incredibly flattering, making every woman feel a bit like a royal.

Now, for the pinnacle of my evening! The Covent Garden Opera House was waiting for me with its promise of ballet bliss. Nothing beats a night out watching world-class dancers move with effortless grace and breathtaking precision.

As always, I opted for a classic pink tutu with a subtle glitter, a truly timeless and flattering look. (No glitter on the face, though. Let’s leave that for the professional dancers. Trust me on this.)

The show I attended this night was Giselle, an absolute classic. It's truly enchanting! The story was both poignant and inspiring. And, the dancers? They brought the drama to life with their masterful movements.

Honestly, nothing is quite as satisfying as seeing all those incredible dancers work their magic, effortlessly captivating the audience. And you know, sometimes I feel the pull to take the stage myself! But for now, I’m happy just to watch and bask in the joy of performance.

As the day wound down, and I said farewell to another glorious London adventure, I felt that familiar pang of sadness that comes with leaving the city. But it's just temporary. My pink tutu and I will be back soon, ready for the next chapter in this whirlwind love affair.

Oh, London, you truly are a captivating city! Your charm, your energy, your unique mix of history and vibrancy... I could honestly explore every nook and cranny and never get tired.

As I stepped onto the train for my return to Derbyshire, I couldn’t help but feel that little skip in my heart, the one that happens only when you’ve spent time in the most magnificent places.

But the greatest joy is returning home, bringing a little of that magic with me. And who knows? Perhaps a few people I pass on the street will think: “Is that pink tutu… I swear… I’ve seen that in London…” Maybe they will then be inspired to break free, step out of their comfort zone, and twirl in a pink tutu themselves. That, my dear readers, would make my journey to London completely worthwhile!

Don’t forget to check out my latest photos on www.pink-tutu.com They’re full of those little bits of London magic that make me say, "You know, it really is pink all the way!"

Until next week!