Ciao bella!
Well, my darling dears, it's Wednesday, which means it's time for another Pink Tutu Rome installment, fresh from the bustling streets of the Eternal City.
I'm sitting at a quaint cafe, sipping my cappuccino (topped with a glorious mountain of frothy, pink whipped cream, naturally), and just feeling the absolute magic of Rome wash over me. This place truly is like stepping back in time - from the cobbled streets to the ancient ruins to the gelato stands that could make even a queen swoon!
As for this week's adventures, my lovelies, I have to tell you, they've been nothing short of spectacular! My journey began on a sleek, gleaming Italian train. Now, there's just something utterly romantic about traveling by train - especially when it whisks you past picturesque landscapes with breathtaking speed. Let's just say I totally fell in love with my plush leather seat, the scent of freshly brewed espresso wafting through the air, and the Italian families chatting excitedly around me, all wearing smiles that could light up a whole carriage.
Once I arrived in Rome, the first thing I did was - as any self-respecting Pink Tutu girl would - find the most gloriously pink gelato stall. The flavours, darling! Let's just say that after my strawberry-rose sorbet with a sprinkling of candied violets, I decided that gelato will forever hold a special place in my heart. And maybe in my tummy, too!
But gelato was just the start. I explored the Colosseum, the ancient amphitheatre that's truly a sight to behold. Standing there, surrounded by the echoing whispers of history, it felt like I was transported to the heart of Ancient Rome! I swear I could almost imagine the gladiators fighting, the crowd roaring, the thrill of a ballet performance being performed for thousands of captivated Romans. Yes, you heard right! My love of ballet is utterly inescapable - I’m just a girl who can't resist the magic of a graceful pirouette or the elegance of a grand jeté, even in the most historic of places.
Later, I treated myself to a truly incredible Roman feast at a tiny restaurant nestled in a cobbled courtyard, surrounded by twinkling lights and the most divine scents of oregano, garlic, and olive oil. Every mouthful was an absolute symphony of flavour, making me realize that good food truly is one of life's greatest pleasures! It certainly rivaled the delicious three-course meal I had at the opulent Hotel de Russie - you’ll see me wearing a pink tutu there in my blog next week!
Speaking of elegance, let’s talk fashion, my darlings! I managed to score the most gorgeous new outfit for my trip, perfect for waltzing around the ancient ruins! Imagine: a floaty, pale pink silk maxi dress with delicate, delicate embroidery that caught the light like a thousand shimmering stars. And to top it all off? A stunning vintage rose gold-toned headband adorned with pearls, perfectly accentuating my naturally rosy cheeks. (That's just one of the reasons my name's Emma. Think 'emmaculately' gorgeous!).
Don’t even get me started on the shoe situation! You know my motto, "Tutu up and spread joy!" so, I naturally had to pack my signature pink tulle tutu to create a whirlwind of twirling goodness in the cobbled streets. But Rome is where I had a bit of a sartorial epiphany! I'd been thinking that maybe tutus only belong in the ballet studio or on a stage. But seeing all the gorgeous Roman ladies sporting the most spectacular leather gladiator sandals with flowing Grecian gowns, it suddenly clicked! There's nothing that says you can't mix things up! I ended up strutting my stuff in the Roman Forum in my tutu with some sleek gold leather sandals and I absolutely loved it. It gave me that unique, twirling, fairy-tale princess vibes with an elegant and timeless Roman twist. Just divine, darling!
Now, for my dear readers, here are some of the things you must do when visiting this enchanting city:
Pink Tutu Guide to Rome
- Food, Glorious Food! You can't go to Rome without trying the pasta, my lovelies. I especially recommend the carbonara (rich, creamy and utterly delicious!) and the gnocchi. Don’t forget the gelato, which I already gushed over! Every day! And don’t forget a strong espresso to get you through the afternoon. It’s a tradition here. I recommend a caffe corretto with grappa to truly live the good life!
- Explore the Ancient Wonders The Colosseum is a must-see. Just stand there and absorb the magic, you can really feel the history pulsating from those stones. The Trevi Fountain is absolutely enchanting - make sure to throw in a coin for good luck.
- Walk, Walk, Walk! The city of Rome was made for strolling and soaking up the atmosphere. There's so much to discover around every corner. Let yourself get lost!
- Shop 'Til You Drop I managed to snag some exquisite Italian leather goods for my wardrobe. Just imagine my joy! Every time I see them, it makes me think of all the wonderful experiences I had here! If you’re looking for something specific, then get a little help from the lovely locals – they know where to find what you need!
- The Romance! Okay, maybe this isn’t strictly something you have to do but there’s just something utterly magical about being in Rome. It’s hard not to feel romantic surrounded by history, art, delicious food and good company. Oh, the good company! You're sure to find someone to whirl around with in those magical Roman nights!
This weekend, I’m going to visit the Galleria Borghese, a gallery overflowing with Renaissance masterpieces. Just picture it, my darling! Exquisite sculptures by Bernini and canvases bursting with vibrant colour by Caravaggio. I’ve already planned my outfit - a long, white cotton dress with a lace overlay, topped off, naturally, with my signature pink tutu. And, of course, some stunning, delicate rose gold jewellery to tie the whole ensemble together.
I have so much more to tell you, darling - about the hilarious scooter drivers, the delicious Italian wine I sampled at a local wine bar, and the friendly locals who helped me find my way around.
So until next week, stay sweet, stay sassy, and remember,
It's a tutu good world, darling, so keep on twirling!
Love,
Emma xoxo
P.S. Don't forget to check out my Instagram for even more behind-the-scenes Pink Tutu fun in Rome. You’ll find all my Rome adventures in pink on @pinktutu_roma and remember - there's always a pink tutu waiting for you on www.pink-tutu.com !
