Bonjour, darlings! It's your favourite tutu-wearing traveller, Emma, here, ready to whisk you off to the City of Lights for another week of Parisian adventures! I know, I know, you're thinking, "Emma, it's freezing cold in December! Why on earth would you choose now to go?" Well, my dear friends, that's where you're wrong! December in Paris, especially around the holidays, is absolutely magical! Think twinkling lights, steaming cups of chocolat chaud, and of course, more shopping than you can handle. (You know, all in the name of research, of course! 😉).
This week, I hopped on the Eurostar, ready to trade the snowy English countryside for the romantic cobbled streets and charming cafés of Paris. Don't worry, I made sure to pack my trusty pink tutu for the occasion! (After all, what's a Parisian adventure without a little twirl, right?)
The Arrival
The Eurostar, as always, was a dream. I managed to secure a window seat and enjoyed watching the English countryside disappear into a blur of greens and browns. Soon enough, we were speeding through the Channel Tunnel and into the heart of France. As we emerged, I could already feel the buzz of the city - the sound of laughter, the aroma of freshly baked bread, the unmistakable hum of a city full of life.
Arriving at Gare du Nord was like stepping onto a movie set! I couldn't help but twirl, feeling like a Parisian ballerina in a vintage film. As soon as I stepped off the train, the air was crisp and filled with the festive aroma of pine and cinnamon. It was Christmas time in Paris! I found myself getting swept up in the Christmas cheer, even though my own festive season had long passed back in Derbyshire.
The Hotel: Parisian Chic Meets Pink Perfection
This time, I'm staying in a hotel tucked away in the heart of the Marais. It's an adorable, vintage boutique hotel with the most charming rooms - think elegant antique furniture, exposed beams, and walls painted in warm, inviting colours. It feels like I've stepped back in time, but with all the modern amenities I could need. I love how my pink tutu practically leaps out of the wardrobe, contrasting perfectly against the antique backdrop! Every morning, I wake up and feel like I'm starring in my very own Parisian love story!
A Christmas Stroll Through the City of Lights
The first thing I wanted to do was lose myself in the magic of Paris at Christmas. It was Saturday, December 27th, and the city was still abuzz with the festive spirit! I strolled along the Champs-Élysées, mesmerized by the shimmering Christmas lights and the intricate decorations that adorned every storefront. It felt like every street corner held a new wonder, from the elaborate windows displays showcasing whimsical winter scenes, to the aroma of roasted chestnuts and hot wine drifting through the crisp air. I even stopped to admire a little boy selling tiny porcelain ornaments - I had to resist the urge to buy every single one of them!
Shopping, Shopping, Shopping!
You know me, darlings, a trip to Paris is never complete without a little (okay, a lot) of shopping! After all, Paris is a fashionista's dream! My goal for this trip was to find some elegant pieces that would perfectly complement my favourite tutus and help me to build the ultimate ballerina-inspired wardrobe. From browsing through vintage shops in the Marais to indulging in some retail therapy at the famous Galeries Lafayette, I managed to snag some real gems. And let's not forget the adorable pink berets! One simply cannot go to Paris without at least one pink beret. They are truly an essential for any fashionable tutu-wearing Parisian.
Food, Glorious Food!
Of course, my trip wouldn't be complete without indulging in all the delicious French cuisine I could find! Croissants, fresh baguettes, pain au chocolat - I even tried some decadent escargots (with a healthy dose of imagination!). I had to take a few days just to allow my stomach to recover from the delicious food coma I’d fallen into!
And, of course... Ballet!
No Parisian trip is complete without experiencing the magic of the ballet! While in Paris, I took a detour to see the ballet "The Nutcracker." As the dancers glided gracefully across the stage, I couldn’t help but feel a little twirl of my own! This beautiful production really solidified my love for this art form.
Ballet Inspiration on the Streets of Paris
While I adore watching the professionals, ballet isn’t just a spectator sport for me. I found myself twirling and pirouetting on the Parisian streets! After all, Paris is the ultimate playground for any ballerina - there’s inspiration to be found around every corner. I even found a lovely little ballet class near my hotel - it’s a beautiful, airy studio where I practiced a few simple combinations with a friendly Parisian ballerina. My favourite moment came while enjoying a latte near the Notre Dame. There I was, enjoying the warmth of the day and soaking up the atmosphere, when I suddenly found myself sharing the space with a couple of other ballet dancers, clearly preparing for a street performance. It was absolutely magical! Watching them leap, turn, and dance, brought a joy and peace that can only be felt in the presence of those who truly understand the beauty of movement.
Pink Tutu Love Conquers All!
Of course, I wore my trusty pink tutu to the ballet, and even during some of my adventures on the Parisian streets. There is something so wonderfully playful and empowering about wearing a pink tutu! Even though I’ve gotten a few strange looks in my tutu, I’ve had so much fun and received a lot of smiles along the way.
Paris - A Dream Come True
So, there you have it, darlings - a glimpse into my Parisian escapade! It's been an enchanting, joyful adventure, filled with unforgettable experiences, beautiful moments, and, of course, an abundance of pink tutu love! I know it's been a whirlwind of a week, and I hope you've enjoyed every pink tutu-filled moment! Remember, my Parisian adventures aren't over yet! Be sure to tune in next week to hear more about my escapades! Until then, be sure to spread the pink tutu love, and remember - it's always the right time to twirl!
Until next time, au revoir!
