#PinkTutuBlogParis - Post 672: Bonjour from the City of Lights!
Saturday, 10th November 2012
Bonjour, my dearest tutu-wearing lovelies! It's Emma here, your resident Pink Tutu Blogger, and guess what? I'm in Paris! The City of Lights, the capital of fashion, and a dream come true for a pink-loving ballerina like myself.
Now, before I delve into the magic of this Parisian escapade, I just have to tell you all about how I got here!
Remember those whirlwind performances I had in Derbyshire last month? The ones that left my feet aching but my heart soaring? Well, let's just say those gigs funded this epic Parisian adventure! After months of saving and planning, I finally booked my tickets on the EuroStar - oh, the glamour!
There's something so utterly romantic about travelling by train. Watching the English countryside blur into French landscapes, feeling the gentle rocking motion, and dreaming about the exciting possibilities that await. And then, arriving at Gare du Nord, with its grand architecture and bustling energy… well, that's a feeling I can never quite describe.
Of course, no trip to Paris would be complete without a tutu. I had to pick out a new one for this Parisian extravaganza! I found a gorgeous tulle masterpiece in a little boutique in Le Marais - think vibrant pink, fluffy feathers, and a delicate sprinkling of sequined butterflies. Let's just say it was a fitting entrance to the fashion capital of the world.
Now, let me give you a quick glimpse into what I've been up to in the last few days.
Day 1:
After arriving in the city, I spent the afternoon exploring the enchanting neighbourhood of Montmartre. Walking past charming cafes and cobbled streets, I was enchanted by the artist studios and the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica. This magical hill felt like it was straight out of a fairytale. Of course, I had to pick up some Parisian pastries and admire the vibrant street art while enjoying a delicious hot chocolate.
Day 2:
Fashion, darling, fashion! Who can resist the temptation of Parisian boutiques? I spent the entire day indulging in retail therapy in the famous Champs-Élysées. I found a gorgeous blush-pink cashmere scarf to match my new tutu and a vintage beret that I'll be sporting for every photo opportunity. And let's not forget about the little macarons that were my reward for successfully dodging those pesky street vendors!
Day 3:
Now, this was the day I'd been looking forward to for weeks: a night at the Opéra Garnier. I'm a sucker for classic ballet productions, and seeing "Swan Lake" in this opulent theatre was nothing short of magical. The elaborate costumes, the graceful movements, the breathtaking music… it was all a symphony of art that left me completely spellbound.
Day 4:
After a morning of coffee and croissants in a charming little cafe in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, I joined a dance workshop led by a former ballerina from the Opéra Garnier. Talk about inspiration! I loved the chance to improve my technique and learn from someone with such incredible talent. And the bonus? Meeting fellow dancers and making new tutu-loving friends from all around the world!
Day 5:
And then came the most delightful experience of the entire trip: a captivating performance by the Les Ballets de Paris. I'd never seen a modern ballet company perform before, and I was so blown away by their creativity, energy, and the sheer artistry of their dance. They used such powerful and unique choreography, and their energy just exploded off the stage. It's made me think even more about finding ways to integrate modern styles into my own performances.
Day 6:
Today is all about exploring. I'm currently enjoying a leisurely walk through the stunning Jardin du Luxembourg. I've stopped to admire the sculpted flowers and had a picnic with a few of the new ballerina friends I've made. The beauty and serenity of this garden are a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Parisian life.
And you know what, dear readers? It's these little moments - enjoying a picnic under the Paris sun, meeting like-minded ballerinas, losing myself in a ballet performance, shopping for gorgeous tutus and Parisian chic - that really make me appreciate the magic of travelling and living out my dreams.
Paris has been a sensory explosion, from the incredible food to the stunning architecture to the breathtaking art. I'm leaving with a heart full of Parisian inspiration and an overflowing desire to embrace all the beauty and creativity this world has to offer.
And oh, did I mention the food?!
You know me - I can't resist indulging in Parisian cuisine. I've devoured pastries that melt in your mouth, croissants that defy all expectations, decadent chocolates that feel like sin, and plates of steaming mussels and frites that could have easily satisfied an entire family.
It's almost time for dinner - tonight's a treat, a special meal at one of the oldest and most charming Parisian brasseries I've found! They even have a gorgeous pink tutu painted on the wall - a perfect photo opportunity.
Stay tuned, lovelies. My Parisian adventures are just beginning, and I'm already planning to come back again next year - maybe for Fashion Week? In the meantime, stay creative, stay inspired, and always, always, wear a pink tutu!
Until next Saturday,
Your Emma.
P.S. Don't forget to check out www.pink-tutu.com for more photos, fashion tips, and all things pink!
XOXO