Bonjour from the City of Lights!
This week, my dear pink tutu loving friends, we're dancing into Paris! It's a city I've dreamt of visiting for years, and as soon as I had a free weekend, I packed my pink suitcase and booked myself onto the Eurostar. Thatâs right, I'm embracing the joie de vivre!
Itâs all so wonderfully romantic! The way the French speak, the cobbled streets, the charming cafĂ©s. You know I'm a fan of the grand, beautiful things in life and this city really delivers!
The Eurostar journey itself was an adventure in its own right. I love train journeys, something about the rhythmic clackety-clack and the rolling countryside just fills me with a sense of wonder. But then again, it's always the most fun when you've got the perfect pink outfit to wear, wouldnât you agree? It doesnât matter if I'm going to the shops or to a ballet class, the pink tutu makes an entrance no matter where I am!
Now, I'm sure many of you are wondering - What's the pink tutu situation in Paris? Fear not, my sweet peas, it is glorious! Just yesterday, I spied a woman in a stunning cherry-red tutu strutting down the Champs-ĂlysĂ©es, with a mischievous little black top that made her look like a mischievous ballerina. My, oh, my, I was almost tempted to chase her down and shout "Hello sister, do we not look fabulous?!â
I've got to tell you, the French really know how to dress! Everything has an elegant and playful quality about it. I spent my morning at a charming little boutique called Le Chic En Rose - just look at the name, they know what they're about! I treated myself to a beautiful powder pink beret that'll match perfectly with my new Louboutin ballet flats (which I actually managed to score in a delightful second-hand shop! Who knew that Paris had such treasures hiding away? This pink tutu lifestyle is truly rewarding!).
Of course, a trip to Paris wouldn't be complete without a visit to the Palais Garnier. I must say, the ornate detail, the majestic grandeur, it truly makes the heart soar. To be surrounded by such artistry and history, and of course to feel the history of such illustrious dancers. To be quite honest, I think my eyes might still be sparkling from all that glitter!
What did I see? This Saturday (2002-07-27) Paris is showcasing the Ballet de lâOpĂ©ra National de Parisâ âSleeping Beauty,â at the Palais Garnier, and how I wish I could be there. It would have been perfect, even if my favourite piece in this classical ballet, âThe Rose Adagio,â only features at the very beginning and end of the performance. It's always a good idea to look at your local ballet schedule to find an interesting production, and of course, see what special tours are running that day!
Speaking of tours, on the tour around Parisâ oldest bakery Boulangerie PoilĂąne I was delighted to hear the bakery owner has used the same dough recipe for three generations. No wonder he had queues snaking round the corner - tradition truly reigns supreme in Paris! It's amazing to discover hidden pockets of traditional artisans amongst the dazzling fashion shops and cafĂ©s! You never know what delights you'll uncover, as long as you keep those eyes wide open and your pink tutu shining brightly!
Paris is more than just its fashion though!
On the weekend I was there, a street theatre production of âLe Petit Princeâ took place in a hidden courtyard. The performers were so incredibly talented, each one playing so many characters! Seeing it all unfold right in front of you made you feel part of the story! You know Iâm always eager to try new things, and my goodness, there were many theatrical happenings across the city, including at the famed Place des Vosges. It really made you appreciate how the Parisians are so passionate about storytelling and drama! They take their performance seriously, but also make sure that people have fun and get to enjoy a wonderful show! Itâs a big reason I adore visiting so much, that combination of grandeur and the unexpected.
This weekend was full of beautiful surprises, from the ballet classes to the street theatre and delicious pĂątisseries, I could happily get lost in the Parisian lifestyle for weeks! If you ever feel inspired to travel, let this blog post encourage you. Do it! And don't forget your pink tutu!
Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to sit outside a café, enjoy a pastry, and admire the people-watching spectacle in my favourite shade. After all, the city never sleeps, and the pink tutu never fades!
* Until next week, stay glamorous, and stay pink!*
Emma, The Pink Tutu Blogger.
www.pink-tutu.com
