Ciao bella! Welcome to Pink Tutu Rome, the 80th installment in my travel blog! Today we're heading back in time, a journey through the enchanting city of Rome as it was in December of 1996. Imagine me, a twirling pink tutu-clad whirlwind of excitement, taking in the grandeur of ancient ruins, indulging in delectable Italian cuisine, and of course, shopping for the most fabulous of fashion treasures.
I've been so excited to share this particular trip with you. Remember how I mentioned in a previous post that I'd be taking a leap of faith and performing a series of ballet recitals to fund a trip to Rome? Well, you wouldn't believe the warm reception I received! Not only were my performances a success, but I managed to save up enough for a whirlwind Roman adventure!
And so, December 18th arrived, and I stepped onto the platform at St Pancras Station in London, feeling like a princess on her way to a royal ball. The Eurostar train was a haven of plush seats and gleaming carriages. I could practically smell the Roman air from within those carriage windows! This trip wouldn't be my usual quick ballet trip, but a real foray into the depths of Roman history, a trip I had dreamt about since childhood.
My arrival at Roma Termini, that iconic central station, was met with a chorus of whistles and calls of "bellissima!" That's the thing about Rome, even the locals are so warm and welcoming, they practically encourage you to strut in your pink tutu! It felt as if I had stepped onto a stage, the city my backdrop, ready to become my muse.
The first stop had to be my hotel, the beautiful Hotel De Russie in the heart of the city. I couldn't resist twirling through the lobby, leaving a trail of pink tulle like a sparkling, feminine mirage. The staff beamed with smiles as I gracefully glided past, already in the mood to explore the hidden corners of Rome!
Now, a fashionista in Rome, you can imagine the delights that awaited. First, I made my way down Via Condotti, home to the most exquisite fashion boutiques in the city. Imagine my delight at spotting a delicate tulle dress in a dusty pink hue. Of course, I couldn't resist and soon had it wrapped in a silken bag, a testament to the incredible sartorial talent of Italian artisans. A tutu just wouldn't be complete without a fabulous outfit to accompany it!
Next, a wander through the ancient squares, the aroma of roasted coffee beans and fresh bread mingling with the scent of pine and winter blooms. Every alley seemed to echo with the distant strains of music, a constant reminder of the city's vibrant artistic pulse. The Trevi fountain, the Roman Forum, the Pantheon... each held their own unique spell. It was like time was suspended in this ancient city, and my pink tutu blended seamlessly into the picture-perfect scenery.
Evening saw me soaking up the theatrical energy of the city. A stunning performance of La Traviata at the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma sent shivers down my spine, the tragic love story resonating with me on an almost visceral level.
To unwind after a long day, I decided to explore the charming Trastevere district, its cobbled streets illuminated by the warm glow of twinkling fairy lights. There I stumbled upon a cosy trattoria with an outdoor terrace overlooking the river, perfect for sipping some of Italy's finest wine under the starlit sky.
Now, let's not forget that I was also determined to find a way to enjoy ballet whilst in Rome! To my delight, I discovered an exquisite ballet school hidden amongst the cobbled streets. Imagine my thrill as I slipped into the beautiful studio, a haven of mirrors and elegant dance barres, to practise a few pliés, knowing that my tutu had become a part of Roman history!
Rome, oh Rome! It was an absolute triumph. The city itself was so beautifully vibrant and alive, and each of my days there was an exciting adventure. I promise, there's more to share from my Roman journey, but for now, let me know how you're celebrating Wednesday! Maybe a twirl in a pink tutu would do the trick!
Yours truly,
Emma xoxo
www.pink-tutu.com
