Oh, Paris, you beautiful, romantic city! How I’ve missed you! I've been dreaming of revisiting the City of Lights ever since my last trip two years ago, and my heart is practically doing pirouettes just thinking about all the adventures in store.
This week, my trusty pink tutu and I hopped aboard the Eurostar from London, embarking on another magical escapade across the Channel. The journey is always such a delightful experience. Imagine: a train ride through the countryside, dappled with fields of golden sunflowers, all while I'm rocking a tulle-tastic outfit, a giant smile plastered on my face, and listening to some of my favourite ballet music! Who needs champagne when you have that kind of joy, right?
Landing in Gare du Nord felt like stepping into a scene from a classic Parisian film - cobbled streets, elegant cafes spilling out onto the pavements, and that signature air of Parisian chic. Oh la la!
It wouldn’t be a Paris trip without a visit to the legendary Palais Garnier, home to the Paris Opera Ballet. This week, I saw a dazzling performance of "La Bayadère," and I must say, it was an absolute feast for the eyes and soul! The sets were breathtaking, the choreography intricate and graceful, and the dancers possessed such elegance and power – it truly made me yearn to take a turn on stage. Thankfully, I have some ballet classes scheduled during my stay – more on that later!
After the performance, a fellow ballet enthusiast and I snagged a table at a cute little cafe in Montmartre, where we indulged in a delectable plate of french fries (Parisian fries, no less!), washed down with an aromatic cup of hot chocolate. It was the perfect way to wind down after the artistic overload!
The next day was a true fashionista's paradise - I got completely swept away by the shopping on Rue Saint-Honoré! From couture boutiques to independent designers, it was a whimsical explosion of colors, textures, and styles. You bet I walked away with a bag full of treasures - including, you guessed it, a stunning pink satin ballet-inspired dress! My heart’s pretty much dancing with joy over this find. It just makes sense for my Paris adventure, doesn't it? You can bet I’ll be sporting it around the city.
No Parisian escapade is complete without a picnic by the Seine. This week, I decided to make it a little bit more theatrical! I gathered some treats, whipped out my favourite floral picnic blanket (you'd never catch me picnicking on a plain old tartan!), and settled near the iconic Eiffel Tower. I even grabbed my portable speaker and blasted some light-hearted ballet music – I figured a little waltz would set the mood perfectly, and it’s definitely more graceful than that annoying accordion music they seem to like in some areas!
For my evening indulgence, a visit to Le Moulin Rouge, that iconic red windmill, was a must. It’s a truly exhilarating, glittery, cabaret spectacle that captures the Parisian flair perfectly. The dance numbers are dazzlingly bold and theatrical, with a touch of playful naughtiness. Of course, my tulle tutu made its triumphant appearance in the grand ballroom - even got a few admiring glances from a handsome French gentleman - he definitely appreciated my commitment to pink. I can't resist showing off my fabulousness and inspiring others to embrace their inner ballerina.
It was truly an experience I won’t soon forget! My French adventure wouldn’t be complete without a spot of baking. You see, Paris is also renowned for its culinary scene, especially the delicious world of pastries. It's been an ongoing mission to find the ultimate croissant, the perfectly layered pain au chocolat, and the most delectable macaron - it's all in the name of research, naturally! This trip, my heart fell for the famous Macarons Ladurée! These delicate meringue treats come in all colours and flavours, from lavender and rose to the traditional pistachio and vanilla, and trust me, the taste lives up to the exquisite looks.
But beyond the famous landmarks and delicacies, I have been enjoying discovering the charm and culture tucked away in hidden corners. From taking leisurely walks through the vibrant Latin Quarter, strolling down the cobblestone streets of Saint-Germain-des-Prés to enjoying a peaceful boat ride along the Seine, Paris is a constant surprise, an endless stream of romantic details waiting to be uncovered. I feel so alive when I’m wandering around this enchanting city - it really inspires creativity. You can't help but feel like a princess, or even better - a ballerina!
Before my journey ends, I have one more special performance to witness - a showcase of street ballet artistry. I have a feeling this will be truly something extraordinary. I mean, can you imagine seeing some of the world's best dancers taking the stage on the streets? It promises to be both raw and incredibly graceful. I just love that street art and ballet, two very different worlds, come together to create a breathtaking experience.
I can't help but feel that I’ve become part of something truly magical here in Paris. The city has a way of captivating you with its allure. I am filled with a sense of wonder as I see the beauty all around me. Paris is truly a city that knows how to bring joy to your heart and light up your spirit – I always leave with a smile on my face and a new lease on life, or should I say, on ‘ballet-life’.
So until next time, Paris! I shall return, with my tutu in tow, of course!
But before I sign off for the week, let's chat about tutu-ness. You guys, the response to the "Pink Tutu Paris" call for submissions has been beyond amazing. So many of you shared your favorite photos and memories - you guys have some seriously amazing pink tutu collections. Keep the pictures and memories coming, because we are having a whole "pink tutu week” next week. So get ready for more tutu fun, fashion tips, and of course, a sprinkle of magic!
See you all next Saturday on www.pink-tutu.com ! And remember: life is way more fabulous in a tutu!
Bisous, Emma
This post has been sponsored by Emma's Ballet Career and Travel. For details of our upcoming performances, see www.emmasballetcareer.com.
Emma's Paris adventures will be back on Saturday 06 August. In the meantime, share your thoughts on this post! You can also follow me on Twitter @pinktutuemma.
(Emma wears a hand-stitched custom pink tulle tutu by Tutus Galore, handmade in Derby. All shoes and clothes in this blog were found in her extensive wardrobe.)
