#PinkTutuPrague Ballet in Prague 2019-02-20

Hello, darlings! Emma here, back from the magical streets of Prague, ready to regale you with all the twirling-worthy details. This week, I traded my Derbyshire cobbled streets for Prague's historic ones, a trip inspired by nothing less than a glorious ballet performance – and of course, a generous dollop of pink-hued adventure!

Now, if you've been following my journey on www.pink-tutu.com for a while, you'll know I'm a sucker for a train journey. A ballet dancer with a penchant for pink tutus simply MUST travel by train, right? This time, it was a gloriously scenic overnight trip, the rhythmic sway of the carriages almost mimicking the grace of a pirouette. I spent the time lost in a world of my own, drafting future blog posts (this one, of course!), sketching tutu designs, and dreaming of all the fairytale castles I'd be seeing.

Once I arrived in Prague, I was straight into the grandness of it all. Imagine this: Cobblestone streets, fairytale architecture that kisses the sky, a river winding its way through it all, and – just around the corner, the grand National Theatre!

Speaking of pink tutus, it was a tad chilly for bare legs in February Prague. But darling, never fear! I brought along a trusty, warm pink cardigan that transformed into a glamorous accessory, draped over my tutu in true ballerinas-off-duty fashion. It really brought a pop of colour to the streets, which were, let's be honest, already overflowing with a vintage charm.

Now, as someone with an eternal devotion to ballet, Prague's cultural richness was an absolute feast! I walked through the city, soaking up its history - imagine, Mozart performing here! My love for all things tutu meant a stop at the National Theatre Museum was an absolute MUST. Not just for the magnificent collection of old ballet shoes (sigh! Those satin slippers!), but also the glimpse into the costumes that graced the stage centuries ago. I imagined them pirouetting across the boards in my very own pink tutu!

I wasn't there to merely soak in the sights and history, my darlings! Prague was calling for a ballet experience, a magical evening I was eagerly awaiting. "Swan Lake" at the National Theatre on February 20th was, as they say, divine. It was as though the ballet itself was part of Prague's historical fabric. Every movement, every step, resonated with the elegance and beauty of the city. It's a memory that's etched into my pink tutu-loving soul forever!

There were so many more beautiful things I had the chance to experience during my Prague stay! The breathtaking view from Prague Castle, the adorable Charles Bridge at sunset (you have to capture the magical sunset light with a quick ballet pose!) , and of course, the Old Town Square where time seems to stand still. Every corner seemed to tell a story. The cafes were all brimming with the promise of a cup of fragrant coffee and the most delectable pastries (a ballerinas gotta stay energised, right?). I even found a small artisan bakery with adorable pink heart-shaped macarons, naturally! They were as beautiful to look at as they were delightful to eat.

And the shopping, darling! From chic boutiques bursting with bohemian styles to antique shops filled with treasures begging to be discovered, my wallet felt a little less bulky, but my heart, much fuller! I picked up the most enchanting porcelain ballerina figurine at an antique store. I placed her on my bedside table at my charming Airbnb apartment, she reminds me of this fabulous trip each morning. I did, however, manage to resist the lure of another tutu! After all, one has to be mindful of packing space for the rest of the European travels ahead.

But shopping is so much more than finding new clothes, it's a celebration of style and the chance to express oneself! This trip really rekindled my love for the bold, the vibrant, and the just-a-tad bit dramatic (we are talking pink tutus, after all!). I spotted the most whimsical shops and cafes adorned with delicate, antique chandeliers, each with a story whispering to passers-by.

The food, too, played a part in my newfound flair. I mean, I’m not sure anything looks more stylish than a beautifully presented meal, right? From perfectly crispy goulash served in rustic earthenware pots to velvety Czech beer alongside a mountain of perfectly steamed dumplings (my favorite!), the vibrant flavours, coupled with the artistic plates and bowls, turned mealtimes into mini-art displays!

But alas, even the most enchanting ballet performance must eventually end, even the most delightful shopping spree must wind down. My trip to Prague ended far too soon. Now, I'm back to my ballet practice, twirling and stretching my way to new adventures. But you know, Prague still dances in my head, and I feel its spirit weaving itself into everything I do! I can already feel the pull of that vibrant city, reminding me to live with " joie de vivre," to embrace my passion, and to spread a little pink tutu magic wherever I go!

Stay tuned, darlings, as my journey through Europe unfolds! Next stop: The beautiful Tuscan countryside (can you imagine a countryside tutu adventure?!). Until then, may your every step be a graceful pirouette, and may you find the courage to wear your own pink tutu!

Much love,

Emma

www.pink-tutu.com