Ciao Bella!
Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, where pink tutus reign supreme and travel adventures unfold! Today marks my arrival in the Eternal City – Rome! My heart is already skipping a beat in time with the city's energy, the scent of freshly baked bread mingling with the exhaust fumes in a way that somehow feels quintessentially Italian.
As you know, darling, I adore exploring new cities by train. The rhythmic sway of the carriages, the glimpses of passing scenery – it's the perfect setting for unleashing my inner ballerina and conjuring up all sorts of whimsical travel fantasies. This week, my travels took me through the Alps, the mountain peaks looking majestic dusted with fresh snow. And then, finally, arriving in Rome, I couldn't help but feel a sense of homecoming. It's funny, isn't it, how places can hold such magic and allure, even when they are entirely new?
Today was all about settling in. My delightful hotel – a boutique gem in the heart of Trastevere, a neighbourhood full of cobblestone lanes and terracotta roofs, feels like it's been plucked from a movie set. My room is a vision of delicate pinks and pastel hues, with a tiny balcony overlooking the bustling Piazza Trilussa. I even managed to squeeze in a quick ballet session this morning – the hotel's courtyard made for a perfect outdoor studio, bathed in the morning sunlight. The only downside was trying to explain to the rather bemused staff that I was "simply following my heart" by pirouette-ing in my pink tutu outside their breakfast area.
My afternoon was spent indulging in the best Italian fashion Rome has to offer. It was a whirlwind of delicate fabrics, intricate designs and daring colours – a perfect day out for a pink-loving ballerina, wouldn’t you say? Of course, I made sure to find some fabulous additions to my ever-growing wardrobe. A stunning scarlet scarf (think flamenco dancer chic!), a silk blouse with the most exquisite embroidered floral detail and, to my utter delight, a pair of rose-tinted sunglasses that just scream "I'm on holiday and life is beautiful!"
And the evening, you ask? Why, it was a symphony of Italian opera, of course! The Teatro dell’Opera di Roma was just breathtaking, bathed in an elegant, historic grandeur. The music washed over me, the stories unfolded before my eyes. A truly unforgettable experience. And what better way to wrap up the day than with a bowl of decadent gelato (pistachio and cherry, for those of you keeping score at home!), a cup of strong espresso, and a gentle stroll back to my hotel through the cobbled streets.
Rome is buzzing with life – street performers busking, locals sharing animated conversations at outdoor cafes, the scent of jasmine wafting from the many hidden gardens. It's a feast for the senses, and it feels incredible to be part of this city's unique tapestry.
Before I go, I must mention the ballet performance I'm incredibly excited for, which takes place on Saturday, 7th January! The Teatro dell'Opera is staging a revival of "La Fille mal Gardée", a classic story about a young woman who defies tradition and follows her heart, much like yours truly! How fitting!
As for my week ahead, it's packed full of cultural treasures, vibrant streets and a whole lot of delicious food. I'm already planning my outfits for a visit to the Colosseum, pondering over what shoes to wear for an exploration of the Vatican City, and dreaming up all the delicious gelato flavours I'm going to try (strawberry with a swirl of hazelnut, anyone?).
Join me next Wednesday, as I dive deeper into the heart of this magnificent city, share my fashion discoveries and uncover the hidden gems Rome has to offer.
Until then, may your days be filled with twirls, sunshine and a dash of pink tutu magic!
Love,
Emma xx
