Wednesday 12th November 1997
Ciao Bella! It's Emma, back from the Eternal City with a heart full of sunshine and a suitcase crammed with the most divine Italian finds. As I type this, my pink tutu swirls around me in a happy little dance, mirroring the joy bubbling inside me after a week of pure magic in Rome. This week's Pink Tutu adventure has taken me right into the heart of history, romance, and all things utterly delicious - think Roman pizza, gelato, and stunning architecture. And wouldn't you know it, I even spotted a fabulous shoe shop right next to the Colosseum – my day was made!
Let's start with my journey, shall we? Taking the train across Europe has to be my favourite mode of travel. I absolutely adore watching the countryside change from English fields to the majestic Alps and finally into the rolling Tuscan hills. The journey itself feels like a dance, and let's be honest, a bit of travelling romance doesn't hurt either. I'm never without my well-loved copy of "Gone With the Wind" for those long train journeys, plus a comfy, slightly sequined travel pillow (of course!) and a trusty pink water bottle for when my lips start to dry out. I just love the atmosphere on a train – that sense of adventure and shared journeys with strangers, a little bit like the opening scenes of a classic ballet.
Upon arriving in Rome, the city unfolded itself with a captivating blend of ancient grandeur and modern sophistication. My hotel is situated right by the Trevi Fountain. Can you believe it? Every morning I wake up to the most breathtaking views, and as the sun bathes the city in its golden light, I swear I can almost hear angels singing. My little room is a pink haven, all soft linen and floral prints – perfect for my daily ritual of practicing a few pirouettes before heading out for a day of sightseeing and Italian indulgence.
My day started, naturally, with a little exploration of my neighbourhood, discovering tiny cobblestone alleys overflowing with charming boutiques, little trattorias with that authentic Roman feel, and the most beautiful, terracotta-coloured buildings with balconies draped in vibrant geraniums. Every turn was a surprise. There were little market stalls bursting with brightly coloured fruit, flowers with heady scents that almost choked me, and handmade leather goods tempting me to indulge. Let's just say that my travel wallet has taken a bit of a hit already!
Lunch today was pure bliss - a plate of creamy carbonara in a traditional trattoria. I've already sampled the Roman pizza and I'm afraid it has redefined my concept of pizza forever. And let's not forget the gelato! A visit to Rome wouldn't be complete without a daily scoop of pistachio and hazelnut. This, my darlings, is a life well-lived!
This afternoon, I embarked on a whirlwind tour of the ancient Roman sites, feeling the echoes of emperors and gladiators whisper around me. The Colosseum was absolutely staggering - imagine, a whole city watching gladiators battle for survival! And the Pantheon? A true marvel of architectural genius, so perfectly balanced, it feels like it's suspended in time. And those Roman arches, my darlings! There's nothing like a good arch, especially when it’s decorated with exquisite mosaics! Oh, the beauty of this city never ceases to amaze.
But Rome isn’t all about ancient wonders, my dears. Tonight I'm going to a fabulous ballet show! They are performing "Giselle" in the most ornate opera house you can imagine. Can't wait! After, there might even be a glass of Prosecco in a tiny, pink-lit, little alley bar – this truly is the "dolce vita" for a ballerina! There's no doubt in my mind that Rome will forever hold a special place in my heart. It’s truly enchanting – like stepping into a fairy tale! I could easily lose myself in this city's captivating beauty and romantic spirit.
Tomorrow, I'm planning a trip to the Vatican. Can you believe I get to see the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica?! I’m so excited about visiting this place of history and spiritual significance – perhaps the highlight of the entire trip! I can already feel myself being pulled back in time. And, my dears, you know me and my penchant for grand and theatrical designs – imagine the costumes worn in Renaissance times. So many vibrant fabrics, rich jewels, and opulent hairstyles – enough to inspire me for months of outfit creation!
Well, that’s all for now, my lovely readers! Remember, stay fashionable, stay pink, and don't be afraid to embrace a little twirl! I'll catch you next week with more adventures from the heart of Italy.
Yours in pink tulle and all things fabulous,
Emma xx
www.pink-tutu.com
