Hello, darlings! It’s your favourite pink tutu-clad adventurer, Emma, reporting live from the enchanting city of Prague!
This week, I’m on a mission to explore the rich history of ballet in this stunning European capital. And trust me, there’s so much to discover!
I’m coming to you straight from a whirlwind journey, where cobblestones met tutus and romance bloomed under a sky studded with stars. (Okay, perhaps the last part is a bit of an exaggeration, but let me tell you, there was certainly a whiff of magic in the air!)
Let's rewind a bit. After a glorious journey from the rolling hills of Derbyshire, I arrived in Prague last Thursday, a city that’s all gothic spires and romantic bridges. Oh, and I can’t forget to mention the glorious, utterly captivating architecture, which truly felt like stepping out of a fairy tale!
Of course, before exploring this fairytale town, I had to settle into my pink paradise! You know I can't travel without my trusted, well-loved, and decidedly fabulous pink tutu (that I call 'Polly'!) so I was very excited to discover the "Fashion Palace Hotel."
This hotel truly lived up to its name, it was an explosion of vibrant colours and charming elegance - with a pink-themed room, I even found a delightful tulle-filled closet! The owner, a kind gentleman named Peter, even insisted I had a personal photo shoot with his magnificent vintage pink convertible car! The pics were absolutely perfect for my Instagram, if I do say so myself.
But it’s the ballet, darlings, that’s brought me here, the heart of my travels. Prague has a rich and vibrant history of ballet, dating back to the 18th century, and you won’t believe the treasures I've unearthed so far.
Ballet Adventures:
Prague's Ballet Treasures: First stop, the magnificent National Theatre. Imagine a grand building of Neo-Renaissance style, so impressive and imposing! After taking in the jaw-dropping exterior, I delved inside and entered the heart of the theater. A performance of Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake was in full swing - I’ve seen countless Swan Lakes over the years but the sheer energy of this production and the gorgeousness of the theatre truly made the experience breathtaking! I swear I could feel the magic of this theatre radiating throughout the building!
*Tutues & Tiaras: *Then I found myself transported to the National Gallery’s Costume Museum! And guess what I discovered? It housed the most exquisite collection of 19th-century tutu creations - and guess what was on show - a tutu fashioned out of pink tulle with silk ruched details - my absolute dream! They called it ‘The Parisienne’ - imagine, this exquisite beauty from the Belle Epoque! sigh
* Ballet Delights:* As for the ballet shows themselves, Prague boasts an incredible selection, and there’s so much for every taste, including, naturally, many fantastic ballet schools. I even had a go myself! Yes, a tutu-clad beginner in a professional ballet studio. My teacher, Anna, was amazing. With patience and grace, she helped me master a few graceful moves – even the grand jeté was manageable (for about 10 seconds). This truly felt like my inner ballerina blooming into life!
Finding Tutu Flair: One of the best discoveries has to be the local, Prague designer boutique, "Ballet Blanc" (though, perhaps, they’d feel a tad insulted I haven’t discovered it before!). I wandered into the shop last Thursday afternoon and nearly fainted with joy when I found the most dazzling tulle-layered pink tutu – it was love at first sight. The designer herself is so talented, and I fell in love with the delicate, flowing styles. I might have treated myself to a few… erm, more than a few new pink tutus and some gorgeous, handmade costume jewellery. But don’t tell my bank balance.
Prague Style: Fashion Finds & Favourite Places:
Of course, a trip wouldn’t be complete without indulging in a spot of shopping - and Prague, I have to tell you, is a haven for finding fashion finds. I just love the city's unique vintage stores – imagine quaint boutiques brimming with stylish dresses, silk scarves, and, my favourite, all kinds of glamorous vintage shoes! They’ve got that quirky and feminine style which I adore. I managed to pick up a beautiful antique jewellery box which would be perfect to store Polly after each show!
Shopping in the City:
One place that truly stole my heart is a beautiful old market near the Charles Bridge. There are so many charming stalls there, with colourful trinkets and a wonderful range of artisanal treats. It felt like stepping straight into a scene from a timeless fairytale!
Speaking of food, Prague has absolutely incredible food - every day is a feast! I tried a fantastic stuffed cabbage (that had a touch of cinnamon, and was almost too gorgeous to eat! Almost). Then there were those magical Viennese apple pastries - the crunch was to die for, and the warm sweetness is something you just have to experience. My Instagram followers were very entertained by all my culinary adventures!
- Horse and Carriage, and A Pink Pony Ride: Prague is truly romantic. In the evening, I enjoyed the city in a traditional horse-drawn carriage (oh, the sound of horses’ hooves clattering over cobblestones!), and you’d be amazed by the magnificent views of the Prague skyline!
And just yesterday, I discovered a “pink pony experience” that I absolutely adored! It was located on the very outskirts of Prague, a true escape into the rolling countryside. They were a herd of pink ponies - I couldn’t believe how beautiful and docile they were, like fluffy cotton candy galloping over fields! We all had such a magical day laughing, chatting, and cantering through the picturesque countryside – just delightful!
Travel Tales and Ballet Buzz:
On Tuesday, I caught an evening ballet at the magnificent Municipal House - which you’ll love because it is an art nouveau wonder, with its dazzling architecture and intricate detail.
Travel Tips from a Pink Tutu Queen * Prague is simply magical - whether it's the vibrant ballet scene, charming shops, or a delicious feast of sweet pastries! * Don't be shy! Prague has some absolutely delightful local markets for your shopping desires! * If you get the chance to catch a pink pony ride - go for it. It's a fabulous memory maker! * Prague has so many options for lovers of fashion. If you like vintage treasures, look no further, Prague is perfect. * Bring Polly with you wherever you go, she always brightens up the day!
Prague has definitely made its way to the top of my ballet lover’s dream destinations! The vibrant city is a harmonious blend of art, culture, and, of course, some truly beautiful fashion.
I’m leaving you with a little inspiration from my very favourite find – the ruched, pink ballet tutu at "Ballet Blanc" shop. My new dream – to get every ballet lover in the world rocking this fabulous style of pink tulle.
Remember, lovelies, never be afraid to dance, to sparkle, and of course, to wear a pink tutu – even in Prague!
Until next Wednesday, stay beautiful,
Emma xx
www.pink-tutu.com
