Bonjour from the City of Lights!
It’s Emma here, writing to you live from the Parisian sunshine! This weekend has been nothing short of a magical dream, so let me take you on a whirl through my Parisian adventure – tutu and all!
As always, my Parisian journey began with the Eurostar, that wonderful, whizzing train that whisks you away from the grey skies of Derbyshire to the elegant Parisian air. There’s something so thrilling about travelling by train. It feels a bit like stepping into a storybook, don't you think? And on this trip, my fellow travellers were a lovely bunch, a group of Parisian ladies, all dressed in chic and colourful outfits, and they all had the most darling little dog with a bow in its hair! It was absolutely adorable. Of course, I had my trusty pink tutu tucked away in my bag – it's a travel essential!
Arriving at Gare du Nord was such a buzz! The air was thick with a heady blend of excitement and history. Paris is a city that truly does make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time, even though it’s absolutely buzzing with life.
First on the agenda, you guessed it… a ballet performance! You simply cannot visit Paris without seeing a ballet performance at the Opéra Garnier, can you? The architecture, the sheer elegance, the artistry... it took my breath away. This week's performance was “La Bayadère,” a masterpiece, which is really no surprise given its history. Watching the dancers pirouette across the stage was mesmerizing!
After the ballet, a little indulgence was definitely called for! The Galeries Lafayette is always on my Paris itinerary, and this time it did not disappoint. There was simply a sea of fashion, so many colours and designs that caught my eye! It was pure delight! I even treated myself to a little pink floral clutch bag and a delicate pearl necklace – a perfect reminder of this trip.
Of course, no trip to Paris is complete without a wander along the Seine – that stunning river winding through the heart of the city. The sun was out, the air was fresh, and the water glittered as we took a gentle stroll along the cobbled streets. You just feel a sense of joy in Paris, that beautiful Parisian je ne sais quoi!
After a wonderful dinner of Parisian delights (I indulged in a delicious escargot dish and a delicate lavender and honey dessert – the French truly know how to treat you!) we sat under the night sky, taking in the glittering lights of the Eiffel Tower. It’s truly one of the most magical sights!
It’s hard to explain the energy of Paris – it's alive, vibrant, exciting! Each corner holds a hidden surprise, and every street tells a story. It’s truly a city to inspire, and I must say, it has most certainly given me some fashion ideas.
On Sunday, after a wonderful traditional French breakfast (I tried croissants with lemon jam this time!), I spent some time exploring the Luxembourg Gardens, which were absolutely beautiful – they are such a relaxing space to escape the city bustle. I also took the opportunity to pop into a couple of beautiful bookshops to buy a new ballet book, and a few French magazines filled with wonderful vintage fashion.
It really has been an enchanting trip – and already, I'm planning my next Parisian escape! If you're ever feeling a little jaded, or need a dose of inspiration, I can’t recommend Paris enough. It really is the most magical place – a city for all seasons, but summer feels extra special, don't you think?
So, until next week, keep your chin up, follow your dreams, and never be afraid to add a little pink to your life!
Bisous
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
Don’t Forget
Check back here every Saturday for my latest Parisian adventures!
P.S. Please feel free to share your Paris tips with me on Instagram!
And of course, never be afraid to wear a pink tutu… anywhere you go!
Now let's talk a little about today, 17th August 2013…
This Saturday, in my little Parisian corner, I found the most divine ballet class! It was tucked away in a charming little courtyard in Montmartre – the studio was painted the most exquisite pale blue. I actually forgot all about my usual pink tutu and bought a new white one with silk ribbons on it. We were doing classical ballet, which was so different to my usual ballet street style. It felt amazing! The instructor, Mademoiselle Colette, was a former dancer in the Paris Opera Ballet, and she just exuded grace and knowledge – such an incredible teacher!
There was also the most divine French bakery close to the studio that served these gorgeous pink pastries that were so light and fluffy – they were the perfect little treat after class! It just made my heart happy – the sunshine, the pretty pastries, the ballet, everything! It was like a little dream.
After my class, I made my way to a fabulous café just off the Champs Élysées. I sat there for a while, sipping my tea and just observing. It was a truly perfect way to end my day – listening to the sounds of the city and feeling the energy that flowed through the streets!
And, as the day ended, I looked up at the sky, thinking how truly blessed I am. This amazing life, travelling, dancing, writing – what else could a girl ask for? It all felt so wonderfully surreal – it was like being part of a ballet myself, except the stage was this incredible city called Paris, and my audience was the world!
So, remember – it’s not just about tutus. It's about living life with colour, with passion, with joy, with that little sprinkle of magic that only Paris can provide.
Until next Saturday, my darlings!
Emma
P.S. Have you visited Paris yet? Let me know in the comments below, and I’d love to see any of your pictures, too! Bisous!
