Hello my darlings! It's Wednesday, which means it's time for another Pink Tutu adventure, and this week I'm whisking you all off to the Eternal City itself – Rome!
Rome's been on my wish list for years, and let me tell you, it didn't disappoint. There's something about the ancient history, the vibrant energy, and the delicious smells wafting from every corner that just fills your soul with joy.
Now, you all know how much I love travelling by train, and my journey down from Derbyshire was absolutely blissful. I'd booked a first-class carriage, snuggled into my comfy seat, and enjoyed the picturesque scenery whizzing past my window. I even managed to squeeze in a little ballet practice, using the space in front of my seat as my makeshift dance floor!
Arriving in Rome was like stepping into a postcard. I found my charming little hotel tucked away in a quiet street, surrounded by ancient stone buildings. I practically squealed with delight when I saw my room – it had a balcony overlooking a cobbled courtyard filled with terracotta pots overflowing with colourful flowers. I swear, you could smell the sunshine!
The very first thing I had to do was explore! Rome is a feast for the senses, with cobbled streets, fountains gushing with water, and the smell of freshly baked bread hanging in the air. My little pink tutu felt right at home amongst the lively bustle, attracting a few smiles and whispers from the locals.
Fashion and Flair:
I couldn't resist a trip to Via Condotti – Rome's answer to London's Bond Street, brimming with luxury fashion boutiques. You could practically feel the history of fashion echoing in every shop window. It's the kind of place that inspires dreams of swirling tulle and sequinned bodices, which of course, I simply adore!
Speaking of dreams, I fell in love with a pair of delicate silver earrings at a little boutique nestled on a quiet side street. The shop owner was an elderly lady with twinkling eyes and a smile that could light up a whole room. She told me she’d had the shop for over 50 years, and that her daughters and granddaughters had all contributed to the unique atmosphere. The moment I slipped the earrings on, I knew they were destined for a pink tutu dance under the Roman moon.
The Colosseum: Where History Meets Imagination:
No trip to Rome is complete without a visit to the iconic Colosseum. I had visions of gladiatorial combats and roaring crowds, even though I knew it was actually used for gladiatorial shows and public executions. But I also couldn't help but think about how, centuries ago, Romans were just as enthralled by the spectacle as we are by our modern-day ballet performances!
The Vatican: A World of Beauty and Art:
Of course, the Vatican was high on my list! I knew the Sistine Chapel had to be on my to-do list, but even with its incredible frescoes, the sheer artistry of the building itself was overwhelming. I felt a sense of peacefulness walking amongst its sprawling courtyards, and even found a little cafe for some traditional Italian coffee and a decadent gelato. The cherry-red gelato, with a hint of almond, paired perfectly with the pastel pinks of my tutu.
Dance, Dance, Dance!
You guys know how much I adore ballet! And my little Italian adventure wasn't complete without seeing a performance. This week's ballet recommendation has to be Teatro dell’Opera di Roma, known for its impressive lineup of international ballet companies. Seeing a performance there was truly magical! I could have sworn I spotted a ballerina’s reflection in the grand chandelier while watching the intricate choreography and beautiful costumes on stage.
After the show, I took a leisurely stroll through Borghese Gardens where I stopped to admire the marble sculptures in the quiet tranquility of the garden's shaded nooks. I sat down on a bench, tucked in my pink tutu and took a deep breath, watching the sun begin to dip behind the iconic dome of St Peter's Basilica.
The day concluded with an unforgettable Italian dinner. I found this cosy little restaurant with red checkered tablecloths, fairy lights strung between the vines, and the scent of garlic and rosemary wafting through the air. I tried all the traditional dishes - the creamy pasta carbonara, the hearty osso buco, and the tangy tiramisu. It was so good that I could have licked the plate clean!
The Power of Pink:
As my Rome adventure wrapped up, I reflected on how the pink tutu had become more than just an outfit. It became a symbol of confidence and joy, a little piece of home in a foreign city, a reminder to embrace my unique sense of style and follow my dreams, no matter where they took me.
Speaking of dreams, the most magical thing I experienced in Rome was simply walking around and letting the city's ancient beauty unfold around me. I imagined what life was like for the Romans who had walked those very same cobblestone streets, and felt a sense of connection with history that transcended time.
And as I sit here back in Derbyshire, unpacking my suitcase and remembering every moment of my trip, I'm already planning my next adventure. Who knows where the pink tutu will take me next? Maybe to Paris, maybe to Florence, or perhaps to a tiny village in the French countryside. Whatever my next destination, you can be sure it will be an exciting journey filled with passion, grace, and of course, a whole lot of pink!
So stay tuned, my loves! And remember, always be bold, be beautiful, and embrace the power of pink!
Until next Wednesday!
Love,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
