Hello my darlings! Emma here, and this week, I’m writing to you from the most charming, romantic city imaginable: Prague! This magical city has been on my wish list for ages, and now, thanks to a fab performance I did last week with the Royal Ballet Company, it’s a dream come true. (You know me, I simply cannot resist a chance to twirl around on a stage in my pinkest tutu! ?).
Now, I’m not going to lie, it’s been a long journey! My last adventure saw me hopping aboard the Orient Express from London, all for a fab ballet gala in Paris. That was just the beginning though! After my Parisian adventures, I had to say “bonjour” and embark on a whirlwind train ride through France, Switzerland, and finally, into the heart of Czechia! Now, anyone who knows me, knows I love a train journey! (But next time, perhaps, a first-class ticket… that croissant buffet really wasn't the most comfortable, let me tell you!)
Of course, I simply couldn't let the opportunity to ride a real pony go to waste! ? It's a magical thing to see Prague's cobbled streets from horseback. Picture this: Me, in a gorgeous, shimmering pink tutu and a pair of my favourite floral-patterned, calf-high riding boots, galloping through the heart of Old Town Square, a whirlwind of pink, floral, and the faintest hint of hay. Now THAT’S a scene fit for a ballet! (Okay, maybe not galloping... more of a gentle trot... but still!)
Anyway, I'm so glad I did it, and now here I am, Prague’s very own ballet ambassador in pink! It was love at first sight with this place. Every corner I turn, I'm greeted with more majestic architecture than you could ever imagine - ornate towers, beautiful bridges, and pastel-colored buildings galore!
The city itself just seems to be bursting with creativity! Even the streets are a vibrant canvas of artists and street performers. It's truly inspiring! And guess what?! There's actually a whole new ballet scene bubbling up in Prague! Apparently, there's a lovely street performance troupe that wears a similar pink aesthetic, (the colour pink can't be contained!) and there's even talk of a new theatre being built specifically for contemporary ballet! Isn’t that exciting? I’m thinking of attending their next show. It’ll definitely give me some serious inspiration for my next blog post. (And possibly, a few pink tutus... hint hint).
But of course, no trip to Prague would be complete without a visit to its renowned ballet theatre, the National Theatre! I had to see what all the fuss was about, and let me tell you, it didn’t disappoint! As soon as I stepped into the majestic theatre, my eyes were dazzled by the beautiful chandeliers, opulent décor, and, of course, the incredible performances! It felt like I was stepping back in time, transported to an era of grace and artistry! I'm already planning a repeat visit – I absolutely must see a full production here! Maybe something a bit dramatic, like Swan Lake? I have to admit, there’s just something about seeing the dramatic, classical ballet moves brought to life.
Oh! Speaking of classic, don’t even get me started on my shopping spree at Prague’s charming boutique shops! My dear friend (and fellow ballet enthusiast) Clara has been to Prague before and swore it would be heaven for me. I have to say, she was right! It seems I’m not the only one who has a fondness for tutus! The window displays were an absolute feast for the eyes, overflowing with beautiful vintage tutus, whimsical accessories, and chic, ballet-inspired outfits! Of course, I just had to find a few treasures for my own wardrobe – (can you believe it? I'm already on the hunt for my next Prague-inspired tutu! Let’s just say this city will certainly inspire me for my next big tutu creation! I think this one is going to be quite bold!) I mean, who doesn’t love a bit of sparkle when exploring a city that sparkles so beautifully itself?
The shopping, the sights, and of course the incredible theatre! The cherry on top? The food! ? Prague has seriously spoiled me with its delicious Czech cuisine. From savory goulash to the sweetest, most delectable pastries, my taste buds have been on a truly indulgent journey. Every meal was a culinary delight, accompanied by a charming vintage teacup (that’s another bonus point!) filled with perfectly brewed Czech coffee. My current favourite treat is these delightful, heart-shaped waffles! Who needs fancy ballet shoes when you have delectable sugar-dusted treats like this, right?
Right now, I’m sitting on a cobbled terrace, with the beautiful Old Town Square spread out before me. I can't get enough of this city! I’m getting ready to explore the picturesque bridges over the Vltava River – Prague Castle, Petrin Hill… there are so many sights I have yet to explore! Oh! And speaking of beautiful bridges, I simply have to share my new love with all of you: Bohemian Crystal. This dazzling city also seems to be famous for this incredible art, with glass ornaments everywhere! The intricately designed crystal figurines – they reminded me of the ballerina statuettes I adore in my flat back home in Derbyshire. I couldn’t help myself. I now have my own collection. My home décor just got that extra bit of sparkle!
And for those who like a bit of a surprise, did you know that Prague also boasts a truly amazing fairy-tale castle! Well, it actually seems to be two. Prague Castle is one of Europe's largest ancient castle complexes. Apparently, it’s the world's biggest ancient castle! Can you believe it? Then, there’s the beautiful Petrin Hill, that seems to be known as the second fairy-tale castle. Well, there's definitely something undeniably magical about both! With its breathtaking views and the incredible castle garden, this spot has got to be on my “Must Visit” list – and I'm so excited to make my way there later this week! Imagine, pink tutus and cobbled paths? You better believe I’ll be snapping plenty of photos!
But wait! There’s even more! Just when I thought I couldn't possibly be charmed any more by this incredible city, I discovered a secret… a hidden treasure tucked away just outside the heart of the city. Imagine a beautifully preserved historical building, tucked away, that features one of Prague's oldest surviving Romanesque halls. Just picture me walking through the grand entrance, wearing my most dramatic, tulle-laden pink tutu, feeling like a true princess exploring her own royal palace! That is exactly how I felt when I visited the Schwarzenberg Palace last weekend! Now, if that's not a scene from a ballet, I don't know what is!
Now, this is going to be a difficult one – but I know I've already given away quite a few of my favourite places! If you are reading this and looking for inspiration for your next trip (or perhaps need convincing that this is a must-visit destination!) – Let’s go for a Pink walk! We could explore the Old Town Square and stroll along the Vltava River! And when we reach a café or charming restaurant, maybe we could have a cup of coffee and talk all things tutus! Or perhaps share a delectable Czech waffle.
I'll be here exploring, twirling, and sipping on Czech coffee until next week!
Stay stylish, my darlings, and be sure to check out my next post on Pink-Tutu.com next Wednesday, same time, same place! I’ve got an exciting new Parisian adventure I’m going to share! Until next time…
Love, Emma ? ?
(Psst... Don’t forget to share your own ballet adventures in the comments! Let’s spread the pink-tutu magic! ?)
