Wednesday, 28th July 2004
Ciao from sunny Rome! This week's post finds me skipping through the cobbled streets of this enchanting city, my pink tutu swirling around my ankles like a playful flamenco dancer. Yes, the Pink Tutu is firmly planted in the heart of Italy, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere and basking in the glorious sunshine!
This trip feels different from my usual travels. The train journey down from Derbyshire, where the lush green countryside gives way to rolling hills and vineyards, had an almost magical air. I'm not quite sure if it was the rhythmic clickety-clack of the train wheels on the tracks, or the sunshine dancing through the train window, or perhaps the excited anticipation buzzing through me - but there was an undeniable energy in the air, a feeling of adventure, that I hadn't experienced in a long time.
As soon as I stepped onto the platform in Rome, I was met with a whirlwind of scents - the heady aroma of freshly baked bread wafting from nearby cafes, the tangy perfume of fresh basil from street vendors, the unmistakable, spicy scent of wood-fired pizzas... oh, it was intoxicating!
This week, my #PinkTutuRome adventure takes a glamorous turn. The Roman summer calendar is jam-packed with exciting events - fashion shows, ballet performances, open-air operas... You name it, they have it! It’s like stepping into a fairytale world where every day is a celebration. I wouldn’t have missed it for the world. I even bumped into a very famous fashion designer last night who praised my pink tutu - it’s always a wonderful feeling when fashion meets ballet!
Speaking of fashion, my bags are overflowing with stylish new finds. The shops here are absolute havens for any discerning fashionista, from the vibrant street markets bursting with colourful silks and fabrics, to the elegant boutiques showcasing the latest Italian designer collections. I have been especially impressed with the leather goods. From the softest handbags to the sleekest boots, Roman leather is a treat for the senses.
I simply can't wait to show you my new purchases! I've already put together a special post about the outfits I'll be wearing during my trip - I’ll be posting it tomorrow on www.pink-tutu.com so you won't want to miss it. Let’s just say, it’s full of romance and elegance, with just a hint of Italian flair. And yes, it goes without saying that pink is the colour du jour!
But it's not all about shopping and style. The essence of Rome lies in its rich history. The ancient ruins are simply breath-taking. Colosseum - with its majestic presence standing tall for centuries - has been captivating my imagination, while the Pantheon is an architectural masterpiece.
On Monday, I had the privilege of witnessing a truly spectacular performance by the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma. I don’t think I’ve ever experienced anything so powerful and emotionally captivating. It felt like stepping into a dream - the exquisite sets, the dazzling costumes, the incredible talent… My heart still beats to the rhythm of the music from the finale. There is truly nothing that can quite capture the magic of live theatre!
This week’s travel highlights:
Monday: * Visited the Roman Forum and Palantine Hill - a magical journey back in time! * Enjoyed a stunning performance of ‘La Traviata’ at the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma. * Had the most authentic Neapolitan Pizza at Pizzeria da Michele (if you're a fan of classic pizza, it's a must visit!)
Tuesday: * Exploring the charming Trastevere neighbourhood - it feels like you’ve stepped back in time! * Went shopping for local crafts and delicacies in Campo de' Fiori. * Visited the iconic Trevi Fountain - made a wish while tossing a coin into the water, of course!
Wednesday (Today!): * Heading to the Galleria Borghese this afternoon - the gallery boasts stunning masterpieces from Bernini and Caravaggio. * Savouring the flavour of traditional Italian cuisine at a charming local Trattoria (I'll be posting about the best pasta dishes on the menu soon!).
But wait! It wouldn't be a #PinkTutuRome post without a mention of all things ballet!
I managed to squeeze in a wonderful ballet class this morning - it felt so good to move my body, and the teacher was brilliant, so knowledgeable. The studio was light and airy, overlooking a peaceful piazza. It was just what I needed after a day exploring Rome! After class, I even spotted a street ballet performance by some incredibly talented dancers - it was beautiful, passionate, and full of raw emotion.
Of course, the ultimate way to absorb the magic of Italy is through the art of dancing - I wouldn’t miss a chance to see a live performance here! The excitement is palpable!
But before I rush off to see what wonders Rome holds in store for me, I wanted to share some inspiration with you.
I always find the most stunning outfits and accessories while travelling - and today's pick is this incredible pink silk scarf. The silky, light material is the perfect addition to any summer look and I think the shade of pink perfectly compliments my pink tutu (yes, you guessed it - I wore it on the day of my ballet class!).
As you’ll already know, the colour pink is more than just a colour - it’s a lifestyle, an attitude! It's a symbol of joy, beauty, and feminine power. It's about embracing life with a playful, romantic heart. It's about letting your inner ballerina shine, no matter where life takes you!
So, if you're looking for a splash of inspiration, a reminder that it's okay to be a little bit bold and fabulous, then step out of your comfort zone, and grab a pink tutu! You'll be amazed at the positive impact it can have on your life!
From the streets of Rome,
Emma xx
P.S. Make sure you're following along on social media - @PinkTutuTravel on Twitter and @PinkTutuTravels on Instagram. I'll be posting updates and photographs all week.
P.P.S If you have any suggestions for things to do in Rome, please feel free to share them in the comments below! I’d love to hear from you!
