Monday 18th February 2008
Hello darlings! It's your favourite pink tutu-clad adventurer, Emma, reporting live from the bustling streets of New York City! This week's blog is a bit of a special one, as I'm going to share all about my magical week exploring this phenomenal city. You guys know I love my travel and I’m absolutely smitten with New York – the energy here is contagious!
For this trip, I've left the familiar fields of Derbyshire behind (although I did miss my favourite spot by the babbling brook), and traded the rolling countryside for the soaring skyscrapers of Manhattan. I always get so excited to arrive in a new city, and there’s nothing more glamorous than stepping off the plane in New York!
This trip, however, was particularly special because I got to see Swan Lake at the Lincoln Center. Oh my, you guys, it was just utterly breathtaking! The ballet itself was just mesmerising, the music had me entranced, and the dancers, they were absolutely magical. I’ve always been passionate about ballet, ever since I was little. The story of Swan Lake is so beautiful and the choreography is so captivating – it never fails to take my breath away. I always feel so much joy and inspiration after seeing a ballet, like the world has become a little bit brighter.
And wouldn't you know it, just my luck! As I stepped out of the theater, I spotted a gorgeous pink feather boa on sale in a little boutique on Broadway. It's perfect for adding a touch of whimsy to any outfit, and you know how much I love pink! Of course, I had to treat myself - because after a perfect ballet performance, you deserve to treat yourself.
After all that excitement, I was famished and headed straight for a cosy little Italian cafe, the perfect place for a bit of a treat. The scent of fresh bread and aromatic pasta was absolutely divine – you know, the kind of aroma that makes your heart sing!
New York City has been on my must-visit list for as long as I can remember. There's something truly enchanting about this vibrant, diverse metropolis. It's a melting pot of cultures, styles, and energy. I mean, where else in the world could you get a taste of authentic Indian street food followed by a hot dog from a street vendor and then have a delicious Italian pasta dinner? And what about all the fabulous clothes? I've been scouring the shops for new tutu inspiration. I mean, you know how I feel about the colour pink, but even I have to admit there’s something quite exciting about seeing all these vibrant shades! And the fashion here, well, it’s truly inspiring – there's no other place on Earth where people are so daring and expressive.
Of course, no trip to New York City would be complete without a ride on the iconic subway! I know, I know, some people find the underground a bit daunting, but I just love the atmosphere – the constant buzz and energy. It’s a microcosm of the city above: packed with fascinating characters, and I mean fascinating in a good way, of course. I absolutely adore people watching, and the subway is the perfect place to do it!
Speaking of fascinating characters, the best part about New York is the people. They're so friendly, so open, so ready for an adventure, just like me! I've had the chance to chat with some amazing people, sharing our love for ballet, the city, and even a bit of gossip. After all, what's a good girly get-together without a little gossip, right? I swear, they really make me feel right at home.
The weekend saw me taking full advantage of the fantastic ballet offerings in this city. On Saturday, I treated myself to a matinee performance of The Nutcracker at the New York City Ballet. I know, I know, I see it practically every year, but there's just something magical about that show! It never fails to bring out the inner child in me, reminding me of all the joy that ballet can bring.
The performance had me bouncing with delight. Afterwards, I popped into the shop next to the theater for a little souvenir. You won't believe this – they had the cutest little ballet shoes on sale! Now I’m looking for the perfect pink tutu to match, of course! They’d be perfect for strutting around New York and showing off my new ballet-inspired style.
And who doesn't love a bit of theatre, right? Sunday night brought a performance at the legendary Broadway stage. I caught the Lion King, a production I’ve been eager to see for ages. Honestly, it was everything I dreamed of – breathtaking scenery, dazzling costumes, a dazzling score – and the animal masks were amazing! I left feeling completely inspired. Seeing that much raw talent on stage truly pushes me to pursue my own creative passions even further.
So, you can see that New York City has been an absolutely fabulous adventure for me! But the real magic of this place? It’s in the little moments: sharing a coffee with a stranger who tells you about their dream of opening a ballet school in Brooklyn, stumbling upon a beautiful piece of vintage pink silk scarf hidden in a tucked-away thrift store on the Lower East Side, and seeing the city glitter under the twinkle of the Christmas lights.
New York City may be a concrete jungle, but it's also a city of dreams, of creativity, of hope, of possibility. The most wonderful feeling? Walking down the street and feeling so empowered, confident, and proud, twirling my pink tutu. Yes, my aim in life is to get everyone to wear pink tutus – I mean, isn’t it the perfect expression of individuality and joie de vivre?
I must confess that although I loved every single minute, this trip had me thinking… New York, you’ve truly captivated my heart, but what will the future bring for me? This time, my heart whispers of adventure, and I’m determined to answer that call. I’m hoping you’ll all join me on my next journey. I promise you won’t be disappointed!
Until next week darlings, happy dancing, happy shopping, and always wear pink!
Much love,
Emma xx
