Wednesday 5th December, 2018
Hello my darling ballet bunnies! It's your favourite pink-tutu-wearing, train-loving, tutu-historian, Emma, checking in from the enchanting city of Prague!
It's a crisp, clear morning here in the Czech capital, and the air is already humming with festive cheer. Christmas markets are in full swing, the scent of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine hangs heavy in the air, and even the cobblestones seem to shimmer under a dusting of early-winter frost. But before I get carried away with the magical fairytale of Prague (trust me, it's just as dreamy as you imagine), I have to share with you the most breathtaking experience of my trip so far... the National Theatre Ballet.
Yes, you heard right! I managed to squeeze in a ballet performance last night and I'm still on cloud nine! The building itself is an architectural marvel, a gorgeous Neo-Renaissance palace overlooking the Vltava river. Inside, it's just as majestic. Velvet seats, sparkling chandeliers, and ornate plasterwork… it's like stepping into a gilded cage of pure artistic beauty. And the ballet… oh, the ballet!
We saw The Nutcracker – what else could a girl do on a chilly December night? It was so utterly captivating! The dancers, every one a master of grace and precision, swept across the stage with a flurry of pink tutus (pink, pink, PINK!! I'm telling you, even in a ballet as iconic as this, it's impossible to ignore the allure of a blush-toned tutu!) The story, with its heartwarming charm and playful magic, totally swept me away. I’m practically still doing a pirouette every time I step out the door!
But you know me, ballet is only part of the picture. A ballet-loving bunny like me just can't resist a little indulgence in fashion and shopping, right? And Prague, with its abundance of vintage boutiques and designer shops, was the perfect place to get my fix.
My morning began with a delicious, perfectly brewed coffee (I confess I'm a little bit of a coffee snob) and a generous helping of Czech pastries – those guys know how to make a good croissant, let me tell you. Then it was time to delve into the fascinating world of Prague's shops.
Firstly, the Prague's Národní Třída – an absolutely dazzling boulevard lined with designer names. Every shop window a tempting display of opulent couture. Now, my heart might be set on a vintage-inspired look, but every girl has those days where a splash of luxury is just what the doctor ordered. So, I had a good old wander and soaked up the energy of high-end fashion – the tactile feel of softest cashmere, the shimmer of silk… it’s pure heaven for a shopaholic like me.
I also found a real gem tucked away in a cobbled alleyway: a little boutique selling authentic Czech glass ornaments. They were so intricately crafted, with shimmering colours and exquisite detail. They remind me of tiny, twinkling ballet ballerinas… so obviously I had to snag a few! Imagine how much prettier they’ll look nestled in my Derbyshire Christmas tree – it'll feel like a little bit of Prague has come to live with me.
The highlight of the day though? I spotted a shop that practically called my name: " The Pink Tutu Shop. " How could I resist? It was an absolute explosion of blush and pastel, a pink-tutu-lover's dream come true!
They had EVERYTHING. Tutus in every shape and size – poofy, billowy, classic, contemporary, you name it. I tried on every single one (what can I say? it's the thrill of the hunt!) and eventually found a little gem - a pale pink tutu with delicate, sparkling embroidery around the hem.
Let me tell you, this isn't just any tutu. It's a little bit of magical sparkle, a bit of playful mischief, and a whole lot of Pink Tutu Emma. This is my Prague souvenir – my reminder of the magic of this incredible city. Oh, and before you ask, yes, I already wore it out to dinner later that evening!
*Fun Fact: *Did you know that Prague has a vibrant street art scene? I’ve seen the most incredible murals on the side of buildings, like mini works of art on an even grander canvas. Some of them are actually dedicated to dance, like a beautiful mural of a ballerina leaping in the air - it's so captivating. Makes me want to leap into action, twirl, and paint the town pink myself!
Right now, I'm back at my charming little guesthouse. The scent of sautéed mushrooms and garlic wafts from the kitchen below (you’d be surprised how many great little independent cafes are dotted around the city – and all offering hearty, authentic Czech food at affordable prices!), and the twinkle of Christmas lights shines from across the street. Prague is just such a unique, beautiful blend of old and new, classic and quirky, and that, I think, is exactly what makes it so special.
*My tip of the week: * Don’t just stay in the tourist traps of Prague! Take a little wander off the beaten path, explore the quiet alleyways, discover a hidden courtyard, or lose yourself in a street market - Prague is a treasure trove of little moments just waiting to be uncovered.
Until next Wednesday, keep twirling and stay pink!
Love,
Emma (And, of course, the Pink Tutu)
www.pink-tutu.com
