Wednesday 23rd July, 2008
Oh my dears, I’m positively bubbling with excitement to be back in Prague! It's my absolute favourite European city, with its cobbled streets, ornate buildings, and charming cafe culture. Plus, it boasts an extraordinary ballet scene that's just begging to be explored. And me? I’m ready with my trusty pink tutu, a freshly-purchased pair of delicate pink leather gloves, and my best, brightest pink polka-dot dress!
This week, I arrived in style, naturally! My journey was a glamorous affair - the first leg saw me crossing the Channel with the grace of a swan on the Brittany Ferry (yes, it is the most charming way to travel across the sea). The moment the boat docked at Cherbourg, I hopped onto a sleek little train and zipped through the picturesque French countryside, with its lavender fields and sun-dappled vineyards. How I adore the rhythm of the rails, and the way the gentle rocking lulls me into a state of serene joy!
Now, I’m snuggled up in my lovely Prague hotel, its grand architecture echoing with whispers of bygone eras. It's like stepping straight into a fairytale. This room, darling, is a perfect mix of Parisian chic and fairytale glamour, complete with a vast four-poster bed draped with silken canopies and a decadent chaise lounge where I’ll indulge in a spot of novel-reading after I’ve explored the city's charming streets.
Speaking of streets, darling, Prague’s Old Town Square is like a painting come to life! Vibrant with the laughter of children, the aroma of roasted chestnuts, and the sounds of lively buskers, it's truly an intoxicating mix. And I must confess, I fell instantly in love with a stall laden with hand-painted, rose-patterned china!
My first stop was, of course, a fabulous shoe shop. And let me tell you, my lovelies, Prague is a veritable paradise for shoe lovers! Imagine: exquisitely crafted ballerina slippers, dainty sandals adorned with tiny silk roses, and heeled pumps fit for a queen! It took every ounce of willpower to walk out of that shop with only one pair – but isn’t a good shoe a work of art, just like a beautiful ballet?
Afterward, I sashayed through the charming Old Town, a delicious scent of pastries and cinnamon drawing me into a quaint bakery where I enjoyed a warm, fluffy croissant. It’s so refreshing to see places that haven’t lost their traditional heart!
Speaking of tradition, my next destination is Prague’s grand National Theatre! Oh, how I do love to soak in the atmosphere of an opera house, all that velvet and gold and hushed whispers of excitement! Tonight's the big event: "La Sylphide," and let me tell you, darlings, this performance will leave you spellbound! The intricate choreography, the ethereal costumes – everything was simply magical!
And I simply cannot let the opportunity slip away without visiting the ballet museum - a hidden gem packed with the history of this beloved art form! Did you know that the origins of ballet date back to the Renaissance, darling? Can you imagine the elaborate court balls of those times? Their exquisite costumes! It’s simply fascinating, and every little bit adds to the enchantment.
And as for the ballet class this morning? A beautiful, graceful hour where the air seemed to vibrate with a magic all its own. Prague’s dancers are truly breathtaking, a perfect mix of poise and power. I felt the familiar pang of nostalgia as I slipped into my pink tutu and rejoined the graceful dance of the ballerinas – an unspoken language understood by the souls of those who embrace this elegant art form.
It’s almost time for my evening outing! I am excited for my next adventure. This time I’ll be travelling by carriage, oh yes, a beautiful horse-drawn carriage through the city. Can you imagine the fairytale charm?
Do join me next week, darlings, for more thrilling adventures from Prague! I’ll be taking you along as I discover more hidden gems in the city’s streets, explore the beautiful park, enjoy another decadent cafe experience, and discover more captivating ballet history.
Until then, dance on! And remember, even if your pink tutu’s tucked away in your wardrobe, there’s a little ballerina inside each of us!
*Always in pink, *
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
