Hello, darlings! It's Emma, your favourite pink tutu-clad adventurer, back from another exciting trip! This time, I've been whisked away to the city of lights, Paris, and let me tell you, it's even more enchanting than I ever imagined. The cobbled streets, the Eiffel Tower glinting against the evening sky, the cafes overflowing with laughter – it's pure Parisian magic!
This week, my blog post is extra special, because it marks the culmination of my summer of ballet. As many of you know, I fund my travel adventures through performing, and this summer has been jam-packed with gigs – from open-air festivals to a captivating performance in Derby Cathedral! The thrill of being on stage, sharing my passion for dance with audiences, it never gets old. And, thanks to the success of my shows, I'm here in Paris, ready to soak up all the beauty and elegance this fabulous city has to offer!
But enough about me! You know I love to share, so let me whisk you right into my Parisian journey!
A EuroStar Dream 🚄💖My Parisian adventure began on a delightful EuroStar train journey. I must admit, I had the most charming carriage companion - a dapper gentleman in a vintage tweed jacket and a straw hat who just oozed Parisian chic. We had a lovely chat about his antique bookshop, which I am dying to visit later this week.
But the real highlight? My dazzling pink tutu, of course! It made a magnificent splash on the train. I received so many compliments, even from the stoic ticket conductor. Who knew my tulle could brighten up even the most jaded commuter? 😂 Just proves: pink tutus truly are the universal language of joy!
Paris, Mon Amour 🗼As soon as I stepped onto the platform in Gare du Nord, I was immediately charmed by the hustle and bustle, the aroma of freshly baked bread and strong coffee. You can really feel the vibrancy here, and the energy just pulls you in.
First things first? A shopping spree, of course! Parisian style is so effortlessly chic, and I was eager to soak it all in. You bet I hit up the flagship stores, taking a peek at the latest fashion collections. Who can resist a little indulgence, especially when you’re in the fashion capital of the world?
Of course, no visit to Paris would be complete without a wander around the enchanting Marais district. With its charming cobblestone streets and quaint shops, it's the perfect place to find vintage finds and discover independent boutiques. I spotted a gorgeous lace blouse for my evening look, paired with, you guessed it, my pink tutu, because what's a girl trip to Paris without a little tulle, right?
Ballet at the Opéra Garnier 🎭And speaking of my Parisian adventures, you know how much I love to catch a ballet performance whenever I travel. Well, this trip has been a real treat! I booked myself front-row tickets at the breathtaking Palais Garnier, the opulent home of the Paris Opera. It's an absolutely spectacular building - you have to see it for yourselves to believe it!
This evening, I saw an unforgettable rendition of "Giselle." The dancing was utterly magical, the costumes magnificent, the music enchanting. It left me breathless and feeling so deeply connected to the art form that makes my heart sing. Oh, I've got to mention, there was this amazing ballet dancer, his movements so precise yet so powerful, he literally stopped time. I'm definitely adding him to my list of favourites!
And guess what? After the performance, I was lucky enough to chat with a couple of the dancers. We discussed the history of ballet, their training methods, and the incredible art of performing at such a prestigious venue. It was so inspiring, especially for someone who wants to pursue her ballet dreams!
Food, glorious food! 🥐🥖🥂Oh, darling, let's talk about the food! I have never experienced such exquisite culinary delights. Every single meal, from the dainty pastries to the delectable dinners, has been a symphony of taste and flavour.
The first thing I indulged in was, of course, a freshly-baked croissant from a charming boulangerie. It was so buttery and flaky, a perfect Parisian treat! For lunch, I had the most delicious sandwich on sourdough bread from a charming café tucked away in the Latin Quarter, paired with a beautiful cup of latte art.
And for dinner? Well, let's just say it involved a luxurious glass of wine at a hidden bistro, a delicious creamy soup followed by succulent roasted duck with crispy skin, all while watching the magic of Paris unfold right before my eyes!
Finding Beauty Everywhere ✨My exploration of Paris goes beyond just the iconic landmarks and fabulous fashion. I've taken time to wander down quaint backstreets, exploring hidden courtyards and discovering charming bookstores tucked away on cobblestone alleys. I even had a wonderful time at a street art workshop in Montmartre, where I finally unleashed my inner creative and created a truly unique piece of art (I’ll be sharing photos on Instagram soon!).
As the sun sets over Paris, casting a golden glow on the city's skyline, I can't help but feel a profound sense of awe. There’s a kind of magic here, a sense of timeless beauty, that truly captures the imagination.
Pink Tutu Magic in Paris 🎀Let me tell you, my pink tutu has been a huge hit in Paris. I've had everyone from waiters to artists complimenting my “tutu fabulosity”. There were even two young girls who, upon seeing me, ran towards their mother, crying “Mama! Look, a real life ballerina!” It melted my heart, those little girls are the perfect embodiment of the joy that tutus bring.
I even encountered another tutu enthusiast on my trip, a chic Frenchwoman with a signature pink tutu that she wore while strolling through the Louvre. Talk about kindred spirits!
Back Home, But With a Parisian Touch 💕Paris has left an indelible mark on me. Its artistry, its elegance, its enchanting atmosphere, and above all, its spirit of joy have all left a lasting impression on my soul.
Even as I travel back to Derbyshire, I’ll carry a piece of Parisian magic with me. I’ve returned home brimming with inspiration, eager to incorporate a touch of Parisien chic into my performances, my everyday life, and of course, my pink tutu wardrobe.
Stay tuned for my next Parisian blog post, where I will delve deeper into my Parisian experiences - from my trip to the Louvre to that stunning bookstore I discovered!
Until then, keep your tutu spirit shining, darlings! And remember, a pink tutu can take you anywhere. 💖
Love, Emma 🩰
