Bonjour mes amies! It's Emma here, back from my adventures in the City of Lights! As you know, Paris is my favourite city, and I just can't resist returning to this enchanting destination whenever possible. This trip was particularly special, as it marked my 500th blog post, a milestone I celebrated with a sprinkle of pink magic!
This week, I was so thrilled to announce the launch of my "Pink Tutu Adventures" website, a dedicated space to showcase my love for ballet and travelling. (Find me at www.pink-tutu.com - I promise, it's just as whimsical as you'd imagine!). So, with a skip in my step, I grabbed my lucky pink tutu and set off on my Parisian escapade.
My journey started in the bustling streets of Derbyshire. A quick hop on the EuroStar from London to Paris and I was whisked away to a world of romance, charming cafes, and oh-so-much fashion! I've always loved train travel; the sense of anticipation as you journey through different landscapes, the delightful little snacks from the trolley… it's truly a lovely way to begin any adventure.
As always, I chose the perfect tutu for this trip – a stunning rose pink creation with a delicate floral design, perfectly reflecting the romantic ambiance of Paris. I couldn’t resist snapping some pics by the Eiffel Tower (it practically begs for a ballerina in a tutu!).
Now, let me tell you, this past weekend in Paris was overflowing with delightful activities.
Friday: A Day at the Grand Palais
We all know I adore ballet, and there's nothing more thrilling than seeing a live performance. I kicked off my Parisian weekend at the Grand Palais with the Les Ballets de Monte Carlo, presenting a selection of breathtaking pieces from the modern ballet repertoire. The costumes were exquisite, the music enchanting, and the dancers moved with such effortless grace – I could hardly believe my eyes. A pink tulle cape here, a glittering feather boa there, all punctuated with a breathtaking ballerina's pose… oh, the artistry!
And, let's talk about the fashion! I simply couldn’t resist popping into the nearby luxury boutiques. I was tempted to buy EVERYTHING (a habit, I know, but honestly, these shops are a sensory overload in the best possible way). The exquisite silk scarves, the stunning shoes, the impossibly chic handbags... it’s impossible to walk past without giving in! (Thankfully, my trusty suitcase had some space – although I may need to send it ahead for next time!).
Saturday: A Chic Afternoon at the Louvre
After a Parisian breakfast – a steaming cup of chocolate, croissant, and freshly squeezed orange juice – it was off to the Louvre to indulge in a spot of cultural exploration. While everyone else was staring at the Mona Lisa (which, to be honest, wasn’t exactly my cup of tea, art-wise!), I was completely captivated by the incredible collections of sculptures and paintings. These beautiful artworks filled the galleries with such a palpable energy – the vibrant colours, the historical details, it was an incredible experience. And my tutu, of course, became a silent muse against this elegant backdrop, perfectly in sync with the romantic elegance of the museum's atmosphere. (Seriously, pink and classical art… a match made in heaven!).
After a leisurely stroll along the Seine River – a charming romantic moment that, of course, included a photoshoot – I took in a lively street performance by Ballet du Peuple, a unique group of street dancers who brought ballet into the heart of the Parisian street scene. It was such a delight watching them perform against a backdrop of lively Parisian crowds; I was swept up in their joy, energy, and creativity.
As the sun dipped low in the sky, painting the buildings in shades of pink and orange, I took a peaceful walk back to my hotel through the enchanting backstreets of Paris. And as I snuggled into my bed that night, surrounded by the gentle sounds of the city, I realised, it was yet another perfect Parisian weekend!
Sunday: Ballet Inspiration at the Palais Garnier
A beautiful sunny morning filled with the aroma of freshly baked bread and strong coffee set the stage for my final Parisian experience: a guided tour of the Palais Garnier. As you probably know, this stunning building is the home of the Opéra National de Paris. Even standing in the building's shadows, I could feel the magic, the whispers of history, and the dreams that had been birthed within these walls for centuries.
As we wandered through the opulently decorated interiors, the ornate details were like an endless stream of inspiration, igniting my creativity and pushing me to dream big. This experience was a testament to the beauty of classical art and a true highlight of my trip!
And so, my Parisian adventures came to a beautiful end. Before embarking back on the EuroStar – feeling energized by the incredible experiences I’d had – I was so glad I’d had the chance to share it all with my dearest followers! Keep your eye on my next blog post, which is filled with fabulous photos from my trip!
Until next week, darlings!
Love, Emma xx
