Bonjour mes chĆ©ries! It's Emma here, your resident pink-tutu-clad ballerina, and guess what?! I'm finally in Paris! Oh, la la! Can you even believe it? Iām absolutely over the moon to be in the City of Lights, the capital of fashion, the birthplace of ballet. It's a dream come true, truly! I've been looking forward to this trip for months. Ever since I saw "Moulin Rouge" - my absolute favourite film! - I knew Paris had to be next on my travel list. And to celebrate being here, what better way than with my latest Paris post on my beloved blog, pink-tutu.com, which you can check out every Saturday!
A Whirlwind Eurostar Journey
I left Derbyshire bright and early on Friday morning. It was a beautiful crisp, clear winterās day, perfect for a morning ballet class at the studio to give me some extra energy before my Eurostar adventure. The train station was abuzz with excitement. My fellow travellers, all heading for Paris, were a fascinating mix of Parisian chic, excited families, and a smattering of business people - all decked out in the very best winter style. And let's just say, the journey itself was truly glamorous! I absolutely adore the Eurostar. I love the smooth journey, the comfy seats, and the sleek modern design of the trains. The views across the English countryside were magical, especially with the late autumn sunshine filtering through the carriage windows. Plus, being able to zip through the Chunnel - it's a magical experience!
The Chic Arrival in Paris
Reaching Gare du Nord in Paris was surreal. My initial thought was "Iām really here!" and I did a little twirl! It was quite an adventure navigating through the French crowds but with my ballet shoes, it felt like a lovely elegant street dance. There was something so exciting about stepping out onto the Parisian streets and inhaling the air. My favourite perfume (Rose & Poppy - of course, my love of pink!) filled the air. Even the bustling station couldn't dampen my excitement!
First Stop: A Fashionable Feast for the Senses
It didn't take long for me to immerse myself in the city. My first stop - what else?! - Galeries Lafayette. It's a shopping heaven! Imagine aisles upon aisles of Parisian chic - beautiful knitwear, stunning evening gowns, glittering shoesā¦ It was like stepping into a dream. I lost track of time browsing the boutiques, and letās just say, my suitcase got a little heavier - canāt help but pick up some little bits and pieces of Parisian magic to bring home, like a few Parisian chic scarves, a gorgeous ballet wrap skirt (that goes beautifully with my tutu!), and a sparkly Parisian beret to add a touch of āje ne sais quoi' to my everyday looks!
A Stroll Along the Seine
Later that afternoon, I ventured down to the Seine. Oh, the Seine, my love! With the romantic sights of Notre Dame Cathedral and the Louvre in the distance, I strolled along the cobbled banks, feeling like a character out of a classic French film. The Parisian afternoon sunshine made the water shimmer, and the gentle sound of the river rippling under the iconic Parisian bridges felt so relaxing. Of course, I couldn't resist a bit of spontaneous twirling (in my tutu of course!) I have to say, Paris was made for twirling.
A Ballet Masterclass: A Glimpse of the Parisian Soul
Speaking of twirling, one of my biggest joys was finding an excellent Parisian ballet class. I had a chance to see what the world of Parisian ballet is truly about. The studio itself was classic Paris ā elegant, airy, with grand mirrored walls, worn wooden floors, and an energy that sent tingles through my ballet-loving soul. It was like taking a step back in time, learning from talented Parisian instructors with a passion for the art form that really resonated. I left feeling empowered and inspired, eager to put my Parisian practice into action at my next ballet class in Derbyshire.
Dinner: A Gastronomic Delight
My first evening in Paris was dedicated to Parisian gastronomy! The little cafƩ across from the studio, with its vintage Parisian charm and twinkling lights, was an absolute gem. It's my kind of Paris - cozy and inviting. I couldn't resist trying the famous steak frites - the steak was tender, cooked to perfection, and the fries were crispy and delicious - a feast for all my senses.
Night at the Moulin Rouge: Parisian Sparkle!
A trip to Paris simply wouldn't be complete without experiencing the Moulin Rouge! Letās just say the legendary āFĆ©erieā show blew me away. The costumes! The glitz! The showmanship! Everything about it was just breathtaking. The entire stage transformed into a vibrant spectacle. With its classic cabaret magic and dazzling costumes, it reminded me why this place is an international icon, a monument to glamour and Parisian artistry. My inner ballerina went wild during the choreography, it was like being part of a living painting. I even got a photo with one of the dancers at the end, which will forever be a reminder of this truly amazing night in the city!
Embracing the Pink Tutu Spirit in Paris
I've always believed that there's a bit of Paris in everyone's heart, and in this city, everyone seems to embrace that inner Parisian style. But you know, wearing a pink tutu is like spreading a little sprinkle of magic, of pure joy, a splash of pink magic onto the world! Seeing Parisian fashionistas decked out in the most wonderful ensembles made me wish even more for a whole world embracing a little bit of pink-tutu flair, a little bit of that unbridled expression that's both classic and cool, stylish and chic, elegant and playful - exactly like my favourite colour.
Paris: A Symphony for the Soul
Thereās just something magical about Paris, its mix of classic sophistication, vintage Parisian charm, and modern trends - thereās nothing else quite like it. From the romantic, shimmering lights on the Seine to the charming vintage Parisian cafes, the chic Parisian style on every corner, and the extraordinary grandeur of buildings, thereās truly a place for everyone. This week was an unforgettable whirlwind. Paris, you have captured my heart! Iām going to miss your beauty, your elegance, your atmosphere - youāve truly blown me away. But donāt worry, my darlings! My next Paris blog is coming up next Saturday, 8th December, so stay tuned. Iāll be sharing all about my day trip to Versailles and hopefully some Parisian street-style ballet movesā¦until then, au revoir and rememberā¦always let your pink-tutu flag fly!
