Hey lovelies!
It's Emma here, back from a whirlwind week in the Big Apple! I know, I know, I should have been updating this blog every day but, darling, New York doesn't slow down for anyone! 💅💋
This week marks post number 916 for my New York blog. I'm starting to think I could write a book! (Honestly, how does anyone not have a million thoughts about the magic of this city?)
It feels surreal, being back in London, sipping my tea after my adventures in New York. Just last week I was catching a taxi past the iconic Chrysler building, the Empire State building glittering like a giant, fabulous diamond against the winter sky, and now... well, I'm surrounded by red double decker buses. How do I even decide what to write about first?!
Well, let's start with the big question everyone asks me - how do I manage to travel the world? The answer is simple, darlings - ballet! Performing has not only given me incredible memories and friendships, it's helped fund my dreams, from travelling the globe to my ever-expanding pink tutu collection. 💃💖
Let me give you a sneak peek into my last week, a week filled with the hustle and bustle of the city that never sleeps!
Monday 🏙️
My New York adventures began on a Monday. There’s just something magical about a fresh start. Arriving in the city, my usual pink tulle skirt peeking out from my suitcase, I felt like I was about to step into a movie. The taxi ride from the airport was truly an experience! Everything seemed brighter, louder, bolder, even the streetlamps! The city truly seemed to be calling to me.
That evening I checked into my hotel, a chic, vintage-inspired boutique hotel in Greenwich Village. As soon as I saw the plush pink velvet sofa in the lobby, I knew this was a place I'd feel at home. 💖
For dinner, I explored the streets around my hotel, finally settling on a small, authentic Italian restaurant tucked away on a cobbled side street. I ordered the pasta, of course. The garlic and parmesan? Absolutely divine! I indulged in a slice of Tiramisu for dessert and sat, watching the world go by - and it's just what I needed to get in the mood for the week ahead.
Tuesday 💃
Every true ballerina knows that a visit to New York wouldn't be complete without seeing a Broadway show, darling. Tuesday night, I took a seat in the plush velvet seats of the legendary Radio City Music Hall. The whole theatre glittered with an electric atmosphere. Even the smell of popcorn felt glamorous in this setting!
And oh, the show! The Rockettes were everything I dreamed they’d be: high-kicking, perfectly synchronized, and utterly dazzling in their sparkly costumes. 💫
The show ended with a breathtaking display of light and colour. Walking out into the New York night, my head still full of dazzling dancing, I felt truly inspired. Maybe, just maybe, one day I could grace the stage at Radio City…
Wednesday 🛍️
"Shopaholic" isn't a word I'd normally use to describe myself, but there's just something about shopping in New York. Perhaps it's the atmosphere, or maybe the iconic boutiques on Fifth Avenue. Whatever it is, New York shopping is truly an experience.
Wednesday morning, after a hearty breakfast of pancakes (a necessary fuel for any shopping spree!), I found myself at a bustling Macy's. Let me tell you, that place is a wonderland! My eye caught the shimmering fabrics of a dress, an absolute vision in the most vibrant pink. (And darling, when else would I resist buying it? You know me.) ✨
And it wasn't just Macy's! I visited the quirky boutiques of the West Village, hunting for those hidden gems, those treasures only a true shopper can find. By the end of the day, I had enough bags to fill a small apartment. But oh, the excitement of it all! My feet might have hurt, but my heart soared. 💕
Thursday 🚇
Of course, no visit to New York is complete without a journey on the subway! It's just the way to experience the city, to feel the energy of New York rush around you. Don’t even get me started on the amazing murals! 💖
That Thursday afternoon, I used the subway to visit the vibrant and eclectic neighborhood of Harlem. There was such a vibrancy there - it's full of history, culture, and energy! Harlem reminded me of all the amazing things you can find just beneath the surface, and in those corners that people sometimes overlook.
Later, in the evening, I made my way to Lincoln Center to see the New York City Ballet perform Swan Lake. Now, I know some of you might think it's a little strange for a ballet dancer to go see Swan Lake, but oh my darling, to see such talented performers dance, it truly is an inspiring sight! They made the story of Swan Lake come to life in ways I’d never imagined! 💖
The next day was dedicated to art. The sheer scale and grandeur of the Met, with its endless galleries and sculptures, made me gasp! As always, I kept an eye out for inspiration for my ballet outfits and performance costumes. Even if I wouldn't necessarily wear it myself, a lot of inspiration for my costumes and outfits come from art - not just ballet, but painting, sculpture and textiles. That day at the Met I even got the idea for my next post on pink and peach coloured tutus, which is definitely going to be a must-have outfit this spring! 🌸
Friday 🎉
For my final full day in New York, I indulged in something truly fabulous - brunch at a swanky rooftop bar overlooking Central Park. The sky was a beautiful blue, and I enjoyed a delicious (and healthy!) avocado and poached egg on toast with a glass of pink prosecco. Yes, darlings, I have standards even on my adventures! 😉
Of course, no New York trip would be complete without a Broadway show, and this night, I caught "Wicked", which was just absolutely magical. From the moment the music started to the final curtain call, I was totally transported to Oz, falling in love with Elphaba and Galinda all over again.
Saturday 🗽
With a heavy heart, I said goodbye to New York City. After a quick and rather hurried breakfast at my hotel, I boarded a train back to London, reflecting on the week that had gone by. It wasn’t just the sights, the sounds, the experiences… it was the people! The smiles on the faces of the children, the kindness of strangers who helped me navigate the busy streets, the energy of artists, actors, dancers - they truly make New York the wonderful place it is. 💖
And darling, you just have to see it all for yourself! I don’t care how you get there, you have to see New York, feel the buzz of the city and have the kind of time I’ve just had! It doesn't matter if you wear a tutu (but I recommend it!) It is the ultimate city for those who crave a life less ordinary. 💖
Christmas Eve 2012
Right now I’m sat at home in Derbyshire with a cup of tea, reminiscing about my travels in the past few years and, naturally, planning for new adventures! While this Christmas will be quiet in Derbyshire, I know 2013 will bring amazing things. I’m planning a ballet recital with some friends, I’m planning to audition for a couple of summer dance schools in London, I might even be planning a trip… but let's not get ahead of ourselves!
Remember, dear readers, my blog is for you. Please share your thoughts, experiences, and of course your ballet outfits! 💖
Keep your eyes on the sky, Emma
xx
