Bonjour mes amies!
Well, here I am, in the City of Lights, Paris! I feel like I’ve stepped straight into a dream - cobbled streets, grand buildings, chic Parisians flitting about… it’s truly magical.
I've been counting down the days until this trip ever since I booked it back in Derbyshire. It's been a whirlwind of preparations, from choosing the perfect Parisian pink tutu (it's a shimmering tulle confection, just a little bit naughty with a smattering of rhinestones) to booking my tickets on the EuroStar. Yes, dear reader, I did it - I conquered the Channel Tunnel on the mighty EuroStar! It was just like being on stage, the scenery whizzing past, and everyone around me in their finest attire. Honestly, even the train conductor looked like a dashing character straight out of a film noir!
My arrival at Gare du Nord was quite something. I stood at the platform, eyes wide, marvelling at the towering Parisian station, then suddenly, my suitcase vanished! But before I could even let out a 'mon Dieu!,' a kind, dapper French gentleman came over with a beaming smile, declaring in excellent English, "My dear, you’ve lost your bag! It must have been the excitement of Paris!" It was actually the last luggage off the train, so it's lucky the French are such friendly folk!
Once settled in my hotel room (which is a gorgeous, petite studio with a wrought iron balcony, overlooking a beautiful little courtyard with a bubbling fountain), I put on my new Parisian tutu - the most important piece of luggage in my possession, obviously! - and immediately stepped out into the glorious Parisian afternoon.
And where else could I head first, my dear readers, than the heart of all things ballet? You guessed it – the glorious Opéra Garnier. It is a magnificent building! Think vast staircases, intricate details, breathtaking architecture - a real palace of dreams for any budding ballerina. I just sat in the square for a while, gazing at the incredible structure and soaking up the atmosphere. Every moment was like stepping into a scene from my favourite ballet film - Swan Lake, perhaps? It's so hard to choose!
For dinner, I treated myself to a romantic Parisian experience - steak frites and a glass of wine by candlelight in a cozy little bistro, nestled down a tiny cobblestone alleyway. Just imagine, soft candlelight reflecting in the swirling wine glass, the aroma of garlic and parsley wafting through the air...pure magic! And yes, I wore my tutu, of course! I simply couldn't resist the opportunity to showcase my fabulous attire. Every Parisian who passed by seemed to smile, some even gave me a quick curtsey - I am officially part of the Parisian family!
Today was Saturday, which meant the whole city felt alive with energy. There was a ballet performance in the Place de la Concorde, a vibrant mix of street performers and jugglers, the rhythmic sound of buskers serenading passers-by, and a fashion show of street style unlike any I'd seen before. Imagine elegant Parisians wearing oversized sweaters and crisp white shirts, flowing skirts and daring hats, a touch of the whimsical mixed with chic elegance – I could have spent hours watching this delightful Parisian ballet unfold.
Of course, I couldn't resist a little Parisian shopping too! I ventured into the heart of the chic boutiques on Avenue des Champs-Élysées. I'm delighted to say I came away with a divine silk scarf – in pink, naturally, with intricate black Parisian designs! And of course, a pair of sparkly black ballet shoes – to match my tutu, of course!
Tomorrow is a brand new adventure! I've got tickets for a ballet show at the Opéra Garnier - 'Giselle,' no less! And in the afternoon, I plan on exploring the beautiful gardens of the Palace of Versailles. It's going to be a busy day, but I’m certain it will be a grand adventure - and I'll be sure to share all my adventures in my next post!
Until then, have a splendid week, dear reader. Don’t forget to embrace your inner pink tutu!
Yours in Parisian chic,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
