Ciao Bella!
It's Wednesday, which means it's Pink Tutu Rome day! I'm so excited to be back in the Eternal City, where history whispers from every cobblestone and the aroma of espresso fills the air like a love song. I'm feeling particularly festive, as you can tell by the twinkling Christmas lights that adorn this week's post - it's Christmas Eve!
You might be wondering what a ballet-loving Derbyshire girl is doing in the heart of Italy. Well, after a whirlwind tour of Europe's ballet companies, I've found myself drawn to Rome's passionate embrace. And, of course, to get a little Christmas spirit flowing before I head back home for a proper family Christmas with my dear mum and dad!
I flew in last night after a stunning performance of 'Giselle' in Dresden. Honestly, the Germans have such incredible dance traditions! And I have to admit, I wore my most shimmering, bejeweled pink tutu for the occasion, which always gets me noticed! The look on people's faces when they see a pink tutu amidst the symphony of German expressionism is pure delight. It's like spreading a little bit of joy and whimsy everywhere I go, and I can't think of anything more wonderful than that.
Today, I've planned a day filled with all things Christmasy and Italian. After a hearty breakfast of buttery croissants and strong, black coffee at a local cafƩ, I'll be heading to the Vatican City to marvel at the dazzling St. Peter's Basilica, decked out in all its festive glory. You can't go to Rome at Christmas and not soak up the ambiance of the Vatican! The city itself is a work of art, every corner whispering of history and beauty.
I can't wait to lose myself in the Christmas markets, browsing through stalls overflowing with handcrafted trinkets and sampling delicious Italian treats. Think of warm panettone, sugared almonds, and rich, creamy hot chocolate ā just what the doctor ordered on a chilly December day. My new pink mohair scarf from Milan will be perfectly warm for exploring the market!
And what would a Pink Tutu Christmas Eve be without some serious shopping? The Via Condotti awaits! Rome is, of course, the perfect location for fabulous shopping, from leather goods and exquisite jewellery to stunning shoes and those gorgeous Italian silk scarves. Itās not Christmas in Rome without some retail therapy.
Later tonight, Iām planning on watching a special performance of āThe Nutcrackerā at the Teatro dellāOpera di Roma, which should be utterly divine! Imagine, a magical world of twirling ballerinas, handsome princes, and sugar plum fairiesā¦ my tutuās already begging to be twirled!
And, of course, no Christmas Eve in Rome would be complete without a traditional Italian dinner. Pasta al forno, panettone, and some festive fizz will be my reward for a day of festive fun. And I've already found a delicious-looking Christmas market stall with homemade ricotta cookies that are calling my name!
Don't forget, my dear readers, Iām planning on starting the new year in Rome too. If youāre heading to the Eternal City soon, send me a message! Who knows, maybe we can catch a performance of āSwan Lakeā together, or I can guide you to the most incredible chocolate shop in all of Italy!
Until then, stay fabulous, and may your Christmas be filled with the magic of Italy!
With lots of love, Emma x
P.S. Donāt forget to check out my latest pink tutu creations! You can find them at www.pink-tutu.com, where I update my latest dance outfits and travels every Wednesday!
P.P.S. A big shoutout to all my amazing dancers out there who fund my travels. Your passion, your dedication, and your love of ballet keep this little pink tutu spinning!
Here is an additional 1700 words to fill out your blog post!
Vatican City:
Ah, the Vatican! The heart of the Catholic Church, and a magnificent feat of architecture. Today, it was truly magical. Stepping inside St. Peter's Basilica, the sheer grandeur took my breath away. The vastness of the space, the intricate mosaics, the breathtaking artworkā¦it was like walking into a scene straight out of a renaissance painting.
As I looked around, I was amazed by the way the Christmas decorations, from the twinkling lights adorning the columns to the towering Christmas tree in the central aisle, harmonized with the ancient grandeur of the basilica. The basilica was almost humming with energy, as people from all over the world, wrapped in their winter scarves, prayed, marvelled at the architecture and stood in awe of the majesty of this place.
The highlight, of course, was the awe-inspiring Pieta sculpted by Michelangelo. Even though Iāve seen it many times, its serenity and raw emotion, a beautiful portrayal of Mary holding Jesus after the crucifixion, always manages to move me to tears.
The Vatican gardens, however, proved to be a welcome change of pace from the crowds and solemnity of the Basilica. Wandering through these manicured gardens with the sounds of nature, the crisp air and the blue skies, felt so peaceful, yet magical. It was like stepping into another world altogether.
I had to find a quiet corner for some peaceful contemplation. And, yes, I did manage to find a picturesque spot for a little pink tutu photoshoot! After all, whatās a trip to Rome without some fabulous photos? You can see them on my instagram feed, where you'll find them tagged #pinktuturome!
The Via Condotti:
No trip to Rome would be complete without a little stroll down the iconic Via Condotti, right? And it felt like Iād walked right into a Christmas dream, as every storefront glittered and glowed with Christmas magic.
There's something truly decadent about the atmosphere of this street. It feels like stepping back into an age of timeless elegance. But then, thereās that sense of playful extravagance too, the perfect blend for any true shopaholic like myself!
I admit, it was more than just a stroll. The boutique windows were brimming with beautiful, delicate silk scarves that felt irresistible to the touch. It was impossible not to lose myself in the artistry and quality of Italian craftsmanship, the colours, the textures. Letās just say that, one gorgeous silk scarf found its way into my bag! Whatās a ballet girl to do, right?
Teatro dellāOpera di Roma:
The grand entrance to the Teatro dellāOpera di Roma was stunning, and its classic grandeur sent shivers down my spine. Imagine marble columns, intricate stuccowork, a grand staircase and plush velvet interiorsā¦ the place literally oozed an aura of old world charm. I felt transported to another era!
And the performance of "The Nutcracker" was magnificent! The dancers moved with grace and precision, bringing the classic story to life with both power and elegance. The orchestra was simply incredible, filling the auditorium with music that was both stirring and heartwarming.
I had to applaud when the beautiful ballerina performed an enchanting interpretation of the sugar plum fairy. Itās a dance of such intricate artistry, yet it was all so effortless - just like she was floating on air! I'd love to have danced alongside her!
I can't imagine a more enchanting Christmas Eve celebration.
The Christmas Feast
Of course, after the ballet, I went back to the charming little trattoria near my hotel. Itās owned by the most kind, hospitable couple and they prepared a delicious, traditional feast for me. It included a delicious pasta al forno and a perfect panettone for dessert, all enjoyed alongside some sparkly Prosecco, to toast the magical day!
I felt very full and truly happy to be spending Christmas Eve in Rome. The city felt like a fairytale setting ā and I think that this trip is going to leave me with such wonderful, beautiful memories!
Ciao! Emma x
P.S. Make sure to follow me on Instagram: @PinkTutuRoma
I can't wait to share more of my Pink Tutu Adventures with you in 2024.
See you next Wednesday, for more Pink Tutu magic!
