Oh la la, my darlings! It's Emma here, fresh off the EuroStar and ready to sprinkle a little pink magic all over the City of Lights. As you know, I simply adore Paris – the cobbled streets, the enchanting boutiques, the delectable pastries (that's my post-ballet treat!) – everything about it makes my ballerina heart sing! This week, I'm taking you on a whirlwind tour of Parisian adventures, with a healthy dose of tutus and all the glitz and glam a girl could dream of.
Saturday 14th September 2002: What a glorious morning to wake up in Derbyshire, the sun streaming in and already painting the world in my favourite shade: pink. Of course, my morning routine was, as always, ballerina-perfect – stretches, barre exercises, a touch of rouge, and a twirl or two in my signature pink tutu, the one with the delicate pearl accents (it truly is a work of art). I was practically skipping with anticipation! My beloved pink tulle had already been packed and ready, waiting to make its grand debut in Paris. After all, a pink tutu is the ultimate Parisian accessory, isn’t it?
The journey on the EuroStar was, as always, a dream. I took a seat by the window, gazing out at the English countryside disappearing into a blur of greens and browns. The feeling of travelling by train always fills me with such wanderlust! It's so romantic and so, so French. The gentle rocking motion was like a waltz, and the clickety-clack of the wheels almost a sweet melody.
And then, bam! Just like that, I was in Paris! The city greeted me with a wave of fresh air, the scent of croissants, and the sound of bustling Parisian life. The Gare du Nord station itself felt like a scene from a vintage film! All that was missing was a handsome Parisian strolling past, carrying a bouquet of lilies. Maybe tomorrow…
First order of business? Checking into my charming hotel in the Latin Quarter. The building itself is a treasure, all faded grandeur with wrought iron balconies and elegant staircases. My room was a symphony of pink – blush-toned wallpaper, a silk throw draped across the chaise lounge, even the shower curtain was adorned with a delicate pink floral pattern! Of course, the star of the show was the balcony, offering a sweeping view of the cobbled streets and the twinkling Eiffel Tower in the distance.
After settling in and admiring my Parisian abode, it was time to explore the vibrant streets of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. I'd heard whispers of a little boutique that sold vintage ballet shoes – what a perfect excuse for a pink tutu to take a stroll! The boutique was just as I imagined: crammed with lace, feathers, sequins, and oh-so-many tulle skirts! Of course, a quick ballet turn in my own tutu was required for the perfect photo op (that's for the blog, my darlings). It wasn’t long before I discovered a pair of the most beautiful, worn, yet elegant ballet shoes, perfect for adding a touch of Parisian grace to my ballerina repertoire.
My Parisian escapade wouldn't be complete without some much-needed Parisian indulgence, so naturally, the day concluded with a sumptuous meal at a charming bistro near the Seine. The food was simply divine - fresh, flavorful, and presented beautifully. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting the Parisian sky in hues of pink and orange, I sipped a glass of the local wine and dreamt of all the magical moments that Paris held in store.
The ballet performances I had back in Derbyshire definitely did wonders for my travel fund! Now I could really treat myself. After all, there's no better feeling than strolling through the Champs-Élysées in a stunning outfit, tutu and all, and watching the sunset bathe Paris in a warm glow. This truly is the city of dreams!
I must dash now - my Parisian adventure awaits!
Au revoir for now!
**Yours in Pink,
Emma**
Don’t forget to visit my website, www.pink-tutu.com, for more pink-tastic adventures!
PS. Follow me on Instagram at @EmmaPinkTutu for behind-the-scenes photos from my Paris trip!
