Post Number: 198
Darling readers,
Greetings from the heart of Prague! This stunning city is, quite frankly, a whirlwind of gothic spires, cobbled streets and a frankly delightful abundance of pastel pink buildings - how very Pink Tutu, wouldn't you say?
My heart has been aflutter since I arrived. It’s like stepping back into a fairytale, or at least the grandest of ballet productions. The very air is alive with romance, whispering stories of princes and princesses, waltzes under glittering chandeliers, and perhaps even a sprinkle of fairy dust for good measure!
Oh, how I adore traveling by train! It's such a civilised way to get about, giving you ample time to savour the countryside - or perhaps whip out that blush-pink knitting and craft a delightful little accessory for my next performance. And a pony! There's nothing quite like arriving at your destination in style on a pony with a pink-satin ribbon in his mane!
You see, darlings, I'm a big believer in adding a touch of fairytale to every journey. It’s all about living a life infused with whimsy and elegance, even when faced with the daily grind (which, for me, is currently balancing a whirlwind tour with ballet performances and blog writing, but I'm not complaining!).
A Waltz Through Prague’s Beauty
Today, darling readers, the highlight of my day was a visit to the exquisite Old Town Square. I literally stopped in my tracks the minute I stepped onto the cobbled stones. The grandeur of the 14th-century Tyn Church soared above, its pointed spires cutting into the pale blue sky like an artist's charcoal sketch, while the vibrantly coloured facades of surrounding buildings hummed with an undeniable charisma. The intricate Astronomical Clock, ticking away with medieval charm, told me the time - 10:30, if my dear old watch is to be believed - but to be honest, time seemed to slip away here, as if the very city were spinning a tale of bygone ages.
Later, I discovered a hidden gem nestled on the banks of the Vltava River, the charming Charles Bridge. Built in the 14th century, this iconic stone bridge has an ethereal quality. Lined with charming Baroque statues of saints, each a mini-masterpiece, it's a haven of quiet contemplation and beauty, the river a sparkling ribbon of blue, reflecting the clear sky above. It's no wonder Charles Bridge has been such an inspirational location for countless artists and photographers; even my pink tutu almost seemed to shimmer under its romantic spell.
A Pink Tutu Paradise: Exploring the Culture and the Fashion
I do love shopping, and Prague has already seduced me with its treasures. There’s an incredible selection of vintage lace, brocades and exquisite silk – all perfect for my growing tutu collection! I just adore how the city mixes old and new - cobblestone alleys giving way to contemporary boutiques and art galleries.
A trip to Prague, I feel, wouldn't be complete without a visit to a true gem – the National Theatre. Its history is intertwined with the spirit of Bohemia - from its creation, driven by a passion for national identity and artistic excellence, to its impressive revival after a devastating fire. Just imagine the excitement, the glamour, the beauty of the grand ballets they hosted through the years! I dream of performing here one day, my pink tutu swirling across the stage under those gilded chandeliers.
Tonight, however, a special treat is in store – the opportunity to witness a real life, real-time performance of The Sleeping Beauty at the exquisite Stavovské divadlo. The original Prague Ballet will grace the stage with the classic ballet's tale of magic, slumber, and the glorious return of spring. This is going to be pure delight - think of the exquisite costuming! The grand gestures, the intricate movements - and of course, a slight possibility of spotting a touch of pink...
This, darlings, is what travel is all about - the delicious blend of the familiar and the unknown. Today I am immersed in history and elegance, embracing the cultural riches Prague has to offer. Tomorrow? I'll be lost in a magical ballet production. This is the life I live – a whirl of pink, passion and endless adventure, with the occasional cheeky peek at a tutu-infused dream!
Oh, I do wish you were all here with me! But never fear, dear readers! My weekly update from Prague continues next Wednesday! Stay tuned!
Your Pink Tutu girl,
Emma
P.S Did you know the most exquisite ballerina slippers come in a lovely shade of pink? Do write to me and let me know your favourite shade! I love a good chit-chat about tutu trends! And if you fancy whipping up a lovely pink treat, I've got just the recipe.
Pink Almond Biscotti
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups (280 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 cups (250 g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (50 g) almond flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup whole milk, chilled
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup (60g) almond slivers, for topping
Method
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
Combine flour, sugar, almond flour, baking powder and salt in a bowl. Set aside.
Cream butter until fluffy, beat in egg. Gradually add milk while beating, then stir in dry ingredients.
Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and divide into two pieces. Shape each piece into a 12-inch log and place on ungreased baking sheets. Sprinkle generously with almond slivers.
Bake 30-35 minutes or until lightly browned and set. Let cool slightly then cut into biscotti, cool completely on a wire rack.
And finally, a very Pink Tutu tidbit for you - did you know Princess Margaret was a fan of tutus too? And, wouldn't you know, hers were a gloriously bold shade of pink, of course!
I leave you with a question: what's your favourite ballet costume?
Until next week,
Stay twirling,
Emma xx
