Ciao Bella!
This week, I'm writing to you from the heart of the Eternal City, Rome! It feels incredible to be back in Italy, the land of fashion, pasta, and... pink tutus? (Don't worry, I'll be sharing all the details of my Italian Tutu adventures soon!) This is post #393 for my travel blog, and I'm so excited to be sharing my Roman adventures with you. As always, I've made my way here via the most magical mode of transport - by train! I love the leisurely pace, the chance to gaze at the ever-changing landscapes, and of course, the opportunity to catch up on some much-needed reading in my favourite ballet book.
This time, though, my travel inspiration comes from a rather different source - my recent performance at the Derby Playhouse! Yes, you heard right! I was the lead ballerina in "Giselle" - a beautiful and moving ballet that left audiences spellbound. My dazzling performance (and my fabulous pink tutu!) helped fund my trip to Rome, which feels especially fitting since Rome itself is such a theatrical city!
Speaking of theatricality, I simply had to make a pilgrimage to the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma, the iconic opera house that is practically dripping with history and grandeur. The ornate interiors, the rich red velvet seats, and the buzz of excitement as I entered - it felt like a dream.
Unfortunately, I couldn't stay for a performance, but my schedule was full of other Roman delights. I'm talking delicious gelatos, a lazy afternoon at the Fontana di Trevi tossing coins for good luck (with a touch of pink-tutu magic, of course!), and even a photoshoot in the Colosseum! I have to admit, I think the Colosseum loved my pink tutu - it was the perfect touch of colour amongst all that ancient stone!
While my shopping in Rome has mostly consisted of adorable vintage Italian finds, it would be remiss of me to neglect mentioning the magnificent Valentino store. As a fellow fashion enthusiast, I couldn't resist venturing into the wonderland of haute couture. I practically swooned over their divine evening gowns, and the Valentino shoes were absolutely divine - although my budget didn't quite stretch to owning a pair, the window display alone was enough to fill my Instagram feed for a week!
Did I tell you that I was lucky enough to see a fantastic ballet performance during my visit? At the Teatro Argentina, I was swept away by "Romeo and Juliet," a heart-wrenching masterpiece performed with grace and passion. There's nothing quite like the magic of a ballet show, the graceful movement, the vibrant costumes, the hushed audience holding their breath… It truly takes me to another world!
But speaking of Rome… Let's talk about food! This trip has been a delicious adventure for my tastebuds! Pasta is my favourite (although it's hard to choose a favourite when every dish is divine), and I've been gorging on fresh, seasonal dishes, including the best ever pasta with artichokes, and the most perfect pizza in a hidden gem of a trattoria (more about that in a future post, my lovely pink-tutu followers!).
It would be sacrilege to leave Rome without a mention of the Roman history, and even a pink tutu wearing ballet dancer can’t resist the call of history. From the awe-inspiring Pantheon with its iconic dome to the catacombs that echo with centuries of secrets, I was captivated by Rome’s ancient stories. It’s funny how even when standing amongst ancient ruins, my mind immediately went to "Gladiator" and the grand ballet I’d loved in the playhouse back home in Derbyshire!
Of course, I had to find some time for ballet practice! While exploring Rome, I stumbled upon a lovely ballet studio right off the Piazza Navona, tucked away on a cobblestone street with cobblestones just begging for some tutu-clad pirouettes! Even though the weather is rather cold and dreary, I just couldn't resist joining in the class! All the Italians looked at me rather curiously as I performed my moves in a beautiful pink tutu (no one does a twirl like me, even in Rome!). I'm a firm believer that a little bit of pink tutu magic can brighten even the greyest of days, and Rome seems to agree!
And the biggest piece of news from this trip is... drum roll I finally found a Roman store filled with pink tutus! I mean, let's face it, the ultimate pink tutu adventure is finding the perfect tutu anywhere in the world! It's just SO fabulous to add Roman flair to my collection - I have to admit I was absolutely giddy when I walked into the store - think dazzling tutus in pink hues and a whole range of textures and styles! You can imagine how thrilled I was! My wardrobe is full of new delights!
Today, my last day in Rome is full of adventures, with a trip to the Vatican City, and a lovely stroll through the Borghese Gallery, where Bernini sculptures are brought to life against a breathtaking backdrop. And you just know, I'm going to try to find another pink tutu for my wardrobe in one of the boutiques I’m sure are full of pink tutus just waiting to be discovered! I’ve also decided to try to persuade the Pope to wear one – you know, to really help bring my goal of world-wide pink tutu domination into reality!
So there you have it, a glimpse into my Italian Tutu adventures. Keep an eye on my Instagram feed and YouTube channel for more pink tutu inspiration. Don't forget to join my amazing Pink Tutu family on www.pink-tutu.com every Wednesday to follow my adventures - the fun doesn’t stop here, my darling pink tutu friends! I hope to see you in Paris soon, where I plan to explore some French pink tutu magic!
Until then,
Keep twirling,
Emma
P.S. If you’re thinking of visiting Rome yourself, the best thing to do, in my opinion, is to simply lose yourself in its charm, wander down side streets, and explore hidden corners. Trust me, you’ll have a fab time!
P.P.S. Don’t forget to wear a pink tutu! It’s always the best way to add a bit of magic to your travels!
