Post Number 849: Saturday 2016-04-02
Bonjour, my lovelies! Emma here, writing to you live from the most magical city in the world – Paris! I’m absolutely buzzing, I've got my trusty pink tutu packed and I'm ready to dance my way through this Parisian adventure. It was an absolute dream, soaring through the English Channel aboard the Eurostar, my little pink suitcase packed to the brim with fabulous frocks and, of course, my favourite pink tutu!
This week, I'm switching my Derbyshire hills for the chic boulevards of Paris. The journey was simply delightful, I popped my headphones on, put on my favourite ballet playlist, and let the Eurostar whisk me away. As I gazed out of the window, watching the English countryside melt into the French landscape, a feeling of pure excitement took hold. Paris, here I come!
I've been saving up for this trip for months, squeezing in extra ballet performances and even teaching a few extra classes, all for this Parisian extravaganza. It's been worth every penny and every pirouette, let me tell you!
So, let me fill you in on what I've been up to since I touched down in the City of Lights...
Friday: Ballet Dreams and a Feast for the Senses
After arriving at Gare du Nord, a whirl of pink luggage and eager steps got me to my hotel. The staff at the Hotel du Petit Jardin were absolutely darling, I swear they swooned a little bit when I popped out my pink tutu and declared "C'est magnifique!"
After unpacking and letting my suitcase catch its breath, I had to visit the legendary Palais Garnier! This magnificent opera house, the backdrop to so many ballerinas' dreams, is simply breath-taking. The ornate interiors, the chandelier glittering like a million stars, the sheer elegance - it all felt so enchanting, almost unreal! I couldn't resist snapping a couple of photos, but no flash, darling, let’s be respectful of this beautiful space.
Next up was a truly fabulous treat - a ballet performance at the Palais Garnier itself! It was "Giselle," and the choreography was so exquisite. Every turn, every leap, was simply perfection. I was enthralled, the music took me away to another world, a world of pure grace and passion. It's nights like this that remind me why I dance, why I love the art of ballet so much.
For dinner, I ventured out to find some traditional Parisian fare, ending up at a darling little bistro in Montmartre. Oh, the charm! Candlelight, red-checked tablecloths, and the most scrumptious boeuf bourguignon! The perfect ending to a truly wonderful first day.
Saturday: A Day of Fashion & Delightful Discoveries
And so, we reach today, dear readers. Today is all about embracing the spirit of Paris. First up, the iconic Galeries Lafayette! The dazzling array of designer wear, the delicate perfumes, the sheer Parisian chic… I could spend hours just wandering through these stores. You've probably seen my photos of me spinning in front of the giant Christmas tree (though it's spring now, don't get distracted, ha!). They just ooze elegance and beauty, the epitome of Parisian charm.
Lunch was at a café right by the Eiffel Tower, an absolutely perfect spot to soak up the Parisian sunshine (I always travel with my trusty pink sun hat, and it was a lifesaver today!). The Eiffel Tower is an undeniable icon, so graceful and powerful. You simply can't come to Paris without admiring her beauty.
But there's more to Paris than just the big sights. This afternoon, I discovered the charm of the Canal Saint-Martin. I took a delightful walk along its banks, surrounded by bohemian vibes, cafes spilling onto the pavement, and locals enjoying the afternoon sun. I was instantly reminded of my own Derbyshire, except this one has more charming shops, and of course, the canal. It was so tranquil, the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Coming Up Next: Ballet and Beyond...
Paris has so much to offer, my darling readers! Tomorrow I'm venturing to the Centre Pompidou, the most modern architecture against the backdrop of ancient Paris – how fabulous! And naturally, I'm keeping my eye out for the most delightful shops for more Parisian flair for my wardrobe, my pink tutu, and my trusty collection of accessories.
Stay tuned for my next post – it’s all about a spectacular ballet performance in a hidden gem of a theatre, a little vintage treasure hunt in Montmartre, and perhaps a delicious patisserie adventure!
I leave you all with this - if you have the opportunity, let the rhythm of Paris sweep you off your feet. Dance your way through its enchanting streets, embrace the art, the culture, the sheer delight of Parisian living. And who knows, maybe you’ll find yourself spinning around in a pink tutu, too!
Bisous from Paris! 💖🩰
