Ciao Bella!
It’s Wednesday, which means it's time for a new Pink Tutu Rome adventure! And guess what, my loves? I’m officially living the dream.
I've traded Derbyshire’s rolling green hills for the ancient cobblestones of Rome, and let me tell you, it's just as magical as I'd imagined. The energy here is simply electrifying, with every street corner buzzing with the scent of espresso and the sound of laughter. Even the pigeons are sassy and well-dressed.
This week I'm wearing my new "Tuscan Sunrise" pink tutu, a custom piece by my favourite milliner (she's actually right here in Rome! We had the most charming tea party). The delicate fabric dances with every step, just like the Romans did back in the day. Well, I imagine. Perhaps a bit less dramatically. And of course, I've accessorised with my new rose gold-tinted ballet pumps, because a girl needs a bit of sparkle wherever she goes, especially in the Eternal City.
But, let's rewind the clock a bit…
A Train Ride and a Roman Rhapsody
My journey to Rome was a dream! Boarding the Eurostar in Paris (oh, that city was simply divine!) I settled into my plush, comfy seat, complete with a personal screen and unlimited prosecco. (I was just a teensy bit sad I couldn't twirl, but let’s not be too dramatic, shall we?)
Then, the magic really began. The French countryside raced by my window like a picturesque blur, turning into verdant fields of sunflowers, a sea of wheat, and charming towns tucked away amongst the rolling hills. It was the kind of scene that belongs in a romantic movie…except, well, I wasn’t exactly surrounded by leading men in this scenario. Though, perhaps one or two of the men I saw were practically drooling, as much at my tutu as my (almost-spilling) prosecco. But I just gave them a charming smile and carried on…it’s the Pink Tutu way.
But enough about the train (and handsome Frenchmen).
Ciao, Colosseum!
My first full day in Rome was all about soaking in the history. And boy, did this city soak me in the history. I took a beautiful horse-drawn carriage ride around the centre, and my breath was simply snatched away. Seeing the grandeur of the Colosseum, so massive and majestic, almost had me bursting into tears of awe. I even felt a surge of pride (and a tiny bit of guilt, to be honest) for being a fellow human and imagining the lives and the energy that pulsated within those stones, all those years ago. It was mind-boggling.
For lunch, I devoured the most divine spaghetti carbonara I have ever tasted – yes, even better than Mama's (who lives across the road, bless her, she always serves the most divine carbonara!). Let me tell you, Italians definitely know their pasta.
A Night at the Opera (in a Tutu, obviously)
I couldn't possibly visit the land of operatic giants without catching a performance, could I? So, I bought a ticket to "La Traviata" at the Teatro dell’Opera di Roma. The opulent venue itself took my breath away, adorned with the finest gold leaf, marbled columns, and chandeliers that looked like they'd been spun from starlight.
The performance was simply sublime, full of passion, drama, and just the right amount of tragedy to make my eyes misty. As a seasoned ballet enthusiast, I must admit I had never appreciated opera before, but tonight? Well, I was completely and utterly captivated by the soaring vocals, the intense acting, and the pure storytelling prowess that had me completely enmeshed in the narrative. There was one particular scene where the male lead - handsome, soulful, absolutely magnificent – let out the most moving cry that sent chills down my spine. I swear, he could break your heart just by looking at you.
My favourite part, though? Seeing the smiles and tears in the eyes of those around me, as if everyone in the theatre had fallen into this powerful spell together.
The Art of Roman Retail Therapy
A visit to Rome would never be complete without some serious shopping, right? Let me tell you, the boutiques here are positively drool-worthy. I fell in love with an adorable hand-painted leather purse in a vintage pink shade and couldn't resist indulging myself with a hand-stitched silk scarf, decorated with a stunning Roman floral motif. It will be a beautiful memento from my travels and look absolutely fab paired with my latest, (slightly extravagant, but SO worth it) "Roman Romance" tutu. (Oh, yes, another one!)
An Invitation to a Tutu-ful Life
One thing I’ve learned here in Rome, my dears, is that life’s meant to be enjoyed – with gusto. Embrace the culture, the colours, the smells. Let the beautiful history of this extraordinary city inspire you and remember to have some fun!
But most importantly, remember to be kind, and remember to always spread a little pink magic. You never know who you might inspire to dance (and to maybe try a little twirling in a pink tutu!)
Until next week,
Stay bright, stay sassy,
Your Emma xx
(PS. Check out my pink tutu Instagram account @EmmaPinkTutu and share your own pictures in your favourite pink tutu with #PinkTutuTravels for a chance to be featured on my blog!)
