Ciao, darlings! It's Emma, your pink tutu-clad travel companion, back from the Eternal City, Rome! This is post number 30 for my Italian adventures, and let me tell you, it's been a whirlwind!
The journey from Derbyshire by train was just heavenly. A hot chocolate in a carriage adorned with plush velvet seating – pure bliss! And arriving in Rome felt like stepping into a painting! The golden hues of the sun setting on the ancient city were like something out of a Renaissance masterpiece.
My flat in the Trastevere district is just divine. It’s a charming little apartment, bursting with terracotta tiles and faded velvet cushions, and even has a tiny balcony where I can have my morning coffee – all topped with a delicious Florentine. My dear friend and fellow ballet dancer, Isabella, who lives nearby, introduced me to a local bakery, and now, I simply must add a little sprinkle of sugar to my breakfast every day.
After settling in, my first mission was to get my ballet fix! Rome boasts a vibrant theatre scene, so it was no surprise finding a ballet school just around the corner. I waltzed in, pink tutu billowing behind me, and oh my goodness, they absolutely loved it! A chorus of "Che bella!" followed by a torrent of compliments - they couldn't get enough of the pink. Even the strict ballet mistress smiled, and she’s practically renowned for being a bit of a tough cookie! My afternoon ended with a delicious Italian meal, savouring every last morsel under the twinkling lights of Trastevere, and then, of course, a long soak in my bubbly, lavender-scented bath. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.
Speaking of twinkling lights, the real magic started on Thursday. The Rome Christmas market! Oh my dear, the sheer spectacle! The aroma of chestnuts roasting, the laughter of children playing, the joyous carols echoing through the ancient alleyways... The air was electric! Everywhere, handcrafted ornaments glittered like Christmas baubles and street food vendors tempted my tastebuds with melt-in-your-mouth ricotta croquettes and freshly baked biscotti. And of course, I managed to squeeze in some time for shopping! A few new pieces for my wardrobe, inspired by the vibrant colours of Rome. (A splash of ruby red, perhaps?) My heart just swells with happiness when I discover new treasures, especially when I can incorporate them into my outfits!
Today was all about exploring. Walking amongst the magnificent Colosseum, a truly breathtaking monument, felt like stepping back in time. Just imagine the gladiators battling in the arena! You can just picture it all happening in your mind's eye, with a little help from a healthy dose of imagination, naturally! I stopped to marvel at the Pantheon, that glorious dome soaring towards the sky, and gazed at the Roman Forum, once the heart of the Roman Empire. Walking down ancient marble pathways, I felt a surge of energy and excitement, each step bringing me closer to history.
Dinner at a local trattoria on Friday evening was the highlight of the week. The ambience, the delicious spaghetti alle vongole, and the laughter shared with locals. There's something incredibly enchanting about a night out in Italy! Of course, a few glasses of local Chianti helped with the relaxed and jovial mood too. We're all embracing the spirit of "la dolce vita"!
One of the most extraordinary things about Rome is its stunning scenery. The beautiful Italian hills, the panoramic views from every street corner, the sun-drenched piazzas bursting with life, all bathed in the golden warmth of the Italian sun. It truly inspires the soul. Just imagine trying to resist that inspiration when you are attempting a fouette turn! Impossible!
Even a small, quiet cafe in a tucked-away corner exudes a certain je ne sais quoi! Coffee tastes so much better when enjoyed amidst this backdrop of timeless beauty! I find that even a simple espresso becomes an extraordinary experience in Rome! I can't tell you enough how much I enjoy drinking an espresso - especially with a delicious piece of Italian pasticceria - in one of those traditional, old fashioned cafe’s with terracotta tiled floors!
So there you have it, a glimpse into my Italian adventures! It’s a whirlwind of colour, culture, history, food, and, of course, a touch of pink! My heart overflows with joy, inspiration, and gratitude for this incredible opportunity. Rome is everything I imagined and so much more. I’m even tempted to adopt a sassy, little, pink tutu-wearing Italian Greyhound puppy to add to the fabulousness of it all. I'll definitely share my new furbaby if I take the plunge, because the life of a ballerina and fashionista wouldn't be complete without an extra furry fashion friend.
Don’t forget to visit my website, www.pink-tutu.com, for even more exciting travel tips, outfit inspiration and ballet shenanigans! And as always, remember, pink tutus are a force for good in this world, so embrace your inner twirl, my darlings!
Ciao for now!
Love,
Emma xox
