New York City, New York. Oh, my, oh, my... the Big Apple, and me in my pink tutu - what could be more magical? I've been living here for almost a year now, and it feels like a lifetime ago I was just a little girl dreaming of New York from my childhood bedroom in Derbyshire.
This week, I've been absolutely spoilt for choice with what to share with you all. Between seeing an incredible ballet show at the Metropolitan Opera, catching some seriously talented dancers strutting their stuff on the street, and having a grand old time shopping till I dropped, I'm bubbling over with excitement to tell you all about it!
The magic of the Met
The Met Opera House. Honestly, the name itself just screams glamour, doesn't it? And I wasn't disappointed. I was lucky enough to grab tickets to a performance of Swan Lake, a ballet classic which I'd always wanted to see. Imagine, graceful swans dancing on a stage illuminated with soft, magical lighting! I'm a total sucker for a good ballet. Not just the technical stuff, but the passion, the expression, and of course, the tutus! The ballerinas' tutus, I mean. Their tutus were absolutely stunning. The white tutus, in particular, were a joy to behold. Pure magic, each feather a brushstroke of a celestial vision! I may be biased, but they do say it takes a ballerina to know a tutu.
After the show, I decided to splurge and enjoy a cocktail at the Metropolitan Opera's glamorous bar. Sipping a crisp white wine (with just a splash of cranberry, as that pink always gets my tastebuds singing!) I watched the elegantly dressed guests exit the opera house, feeling like I'd just walked straight out of a vintage movie scene. I'm just in awe of the cultural heritage this city possesses, It's a constant reminder that art and beauty can truly inspire, elevate and uplift us all.
The streets of New York are my dance floor
And speaking of uplift, this city has a very special energy! Everywhere I look, I see an exciting fusion of creativity and inspiration. But my favourite place to find it is right on the streets, of course.
So, on my day off, I took a leisurely stroll through Central Park. It's hard to believe this gorgeous expanse of greenery is right in the heart of the concrete jungle, a total haven for escaping the city bustle. What I love most about this city, is the incredible talent just waiting to be discovered. While walking around the park, I was lucky enough to catch a couple of street performers with extraordinary skills. The rhythmic steps of a tap dancer filled the air, captivating all who walked past. And a little further on, I stumbled upon a couple performing contemporary ballet. It's amazing to me, how much talent you find just tucked away in this city!
I just can't help myself, gotta have a tutu!
And it wasn't all dancing. My favourite day was spent shopping on 5th Avenue. This place is an absolute fashion dreamland. And with my signature pink tutu swishing beneath my pink dress, I was definitely blending right in. What can I say, pink is my passion! Every day I feel blessed to be here and the joy it brings. And a girl can never have too many tutus, you know!
I decided to spoil myself with some new dancing shoes (I’m eyeing the ballet flats – they can go with everything!) and a few new outfits for my next performance. You know me, always ready to twirl. But finding the perfect accessory for a pink tutu is an ongoing mission. I spotted the most wonderful sparkly hair band with miniature pink ribbons, and felt it just had to come home with me. It’s the little things that truly make a difference, don't you think?
And how about some yummy food?
I must admit, the food scene in New York is nothing short of fabulous. From tiny, intimate cafes serving steaming mugs of tea to grand restaurants offering decadent meals under crystal chandeliers, there’s a place to fit every taste and mood. My personal favourite is the little Italian café around the corner. It's owned by this lovely old couple, who treat me like family. And they make the most delicious pasta! It’s been a while since I’ve had a hearty plate of carbonara. It was divine, and a wonderful reward after a busy afternoon. Their pizza is worth a try too – truly Italian in all the best ways.
Keep up with my adventures at www.pink-tutu.com
You can always find more about my daily New York City adventures on my website, www.pink-tutu.com, where I post weekly! So if you’re ever in town, feel free to say hello! I’d love to catch up with you. Until then, let's keep dancing, exploring, and embracing life's little luxuries! I'll see you all again next Monday.
Much love,
Emma
In my pink tutu, I'm a tiny sparkle in this grand metropolis.
