Hello darlings, it's Wednesday, so time for another post from your favourite pink-loving, tutu-wearing travel blogger!
This week I'm bringing you a whirlwind tour of Prague, the city of a thousand spires (and, of course, the odd pink tutu!), and all the amazing things I’ve been up to on this trip!
But first, let’s rewind back to my little Derbyshire village. This week I was back home teaching my class at the Derbyshire Dance Studio, doing what I love most: passing on the joy of ballet! Those sweet little ballerinas, so eager to learn the pirouette and perfect their pliés, fill me with such joy! They’re the reason I do what I do – because even the littlest tutu makes the biggest difference.
So, how did I get from Derbyshire to Prague? By train, of course! You can’t beat the leisurely pace of a long train journey; plenty of time to catch up on magazines, admire the scenery and even squeeze in a bit of tutu-twirling practice in the carriage aisle! I’ll tell you, with all that leg work I got in, the arrival in Prague felt like the grand finale!
First Stop: Shopping Heaven!
As soon as I stepped off the train, the beautiful architecture and vibrant streets of Prague immediately set my fashion sense aflame! This city has some of the most incredible vintage shops and boutiques I’ve ever seen – real hidden gems overflowing with everything from pastel pink fascinators to sparkly, sequined gowns, just waiting for a ballerina to take them home! Of course, I didn’t leave without a handful of treasures - a powder blue hat, some stunning beaded gloves, and a tiny antique mirror adorned with the most delicate roses (perfectly fitting for a girl who loves to look her best, don’t you think?)
I could have spent weeks exploring those streets but I had a date – a ballet date, that is! This Wednesday, December 4th, 2002 , I was attending a performance of Giselle by the Prague National Theatre Ballet. Did you know? This production of Giselle premiered in Prague back in 1841 – and its a show with such a special place in my heart, I've seen it a thousand times and I still find myself enthralled by its romantic beauty, the ethereal quality of Giselle and the power of its tragic story. The story of Giselle, a young village girl whose love leads her to a destiny of sorrow and the supernatural, perfectly embodies the beauty, vulnerability and power of dance. There’s nothing more elegant than watching a beautiful ballerina embody the character of Giselle and to me, the tragedy of the story only adds to its beauty and mystique. The choreography, by Jules Perrot and Jean Coralli, is classic and graceful, while the score by Adolphe Adam has such lyrical charm that it’s no surprise Giselle remains one of the most famous ballets in the world!
Beyond the Ballet
After such an emotional evening, I decided to treat myself to some Czech culinary delights. Prague has so much to offer - traditional cuisine, from succulent roasted meats to fluffy dumplings, and don’t forget the delicious, locally made gingerbread! But, my favourite thing, has to be the magical atmosphere of the city. Walking the cobbled streets under a canopy of stars, feeling the city’s rich history and stories weaving their magic around me – truly, Prague is a fairytale come true. And let’s be honest, every girl needs a little fairytale in their lives, right? I even spotted some cobblestone pathways which, believe it or not, were perfect for a little pas de deux under the moonlight.
But as magical as Prague is, I know that adventure awaits! I have a feeling this whim of a city is only the first chapter of many adventures in pink tutus.
*Next week I'll be taking a long journey, hopping onto a carriage, my trusty pony 'Twinkletoes' will be pulling us to my next destination. Stay tuned to find out where the Pink Tutu is taking me next! *
Do let me know if you're visiting Prague or have been there and have any special pink tutu tips for me. And if you have any questions about Giselle, feel free to pop them in the comments section!
Stay fabulous and remember - the world needs more pink tutus!
Lots of love,
Emma x
www.pink-tutu.com
(Don’t forget to check out my latest Instagram pictures!)
