Wednesday 3rd November 2004
Ciao bellas! It's Emma here, your resident pink tutu enthusiast, back with another post from my latest adventure! This week, I'm in the Eternal City ā the magical, captivating, utterly glorious Rome! As I sit in the grand cafĆ© overlooking the Piazza Navona, sunlight dancing on the fountains and a gelato melting in my hand, I can't help but be completely in awe. The city feels like a dream, a sprawling museum filled with history and charm, and I've only been here for a day!
Let me rewind a bitā¦
My journey began, as usual, with a train ride. I love the romance of a train journey, watching the countryside whiz by, getting lost in a good book (currently "The Time Traveller's Wife", completely obsessed!), and feeling that thrill of anticipation as I arrive at my destination. This time, it was the Eurostar, carrying me through the Channel Tunnel, straight to Paris, and from there a thrilling, fast-paced TGV to Rome.
I confess, the excitement was nearly unbearable. It's not just that I love Italy ā oh, I do! ā but my trip to Rome has a specific, magical purpose: seeing a production of "La Sylphide" by the illustrious Rome Opera Ballet. Oh my word, this is going to be epic! "La Sylphide" is one of my all-time favourite ballets, a delicate, enchanting story set against a backdrop of romantic landscapes, with choreography that speaks to the heart and soul.
But, Rome is so much more than just the ballet, isnāt it? Itās about discovering its ancient secrets, exploring cobbled streets with charming little shops and restaurants, and feeling the buzz of life around you.
I landed at Termini Station yesterday afternoon, a bustling hive of activity that immediately put a smile on my face. The station was so grand, with towering vaulted ceilings and marble floors. It felt like I was stepping back in time. And speaking of time, the Romans have got time down to a fine art! No rush, no pressure, just a delightful sense of ādolce far nienteā, that blissful sweet idleness. Iāve never been so relaxed!
Once I checked into my adorable little hotel ā a converted palazzo with balconies overflowing with fragrant roses, you couldn't have imagined a more romantic spot ā I immediately set out to explore. Rome is, of course, synonymous with incredible food, so my first stop was for a delicious lunch of pasta carbonara. The flavours were intense, the creamy sauce absolutely divine!
Later, I decided to wander through the Piazza Navona. Oh, the magic! Imagine yourself surrounded by Baroque architecture, fountains bubbling and sparkling in the sunshine, street artists selling their creations, and a palpable sense of joyous, carefree energy. I spent hours simply sitting on a bench, soaking up the atmosphere, letting the vibrant scene wash over me.
Speaking of āwashing overā, I felt compelled to embrace a bit of "La Dolce Vita" myself and indulge in a glorious Italian hot bath. (Thereās nothing quite like an Italian hotel bathroom ā luxurious, spacious and opulent). With a glass of Prosecco on the side, it was sheer bliss!
Then came the most important part of the evening: a dinner of pasta, followed by gelato. Can you tell Iām already completely in love with Italian food? (If anyone wants the name of this amazing pasta place, send me a comment! )
Tomorrow morning, a bit of exploring is on the agenda: The Colosseum, The Roman Forum, and the Pantheonā¦ oh my! I can already feel the history seeping into my soul, a captivating mix of ancient grandeur and timeless beauty. Iāll let you know all about my adventures, complete with photos, of course. And if youāre looking for inspiration on what to pack for your own Rome adventure, donāt worry, Iāll be sharing some tips on my next blog post.
But, most importantly, tonight, I am beyond excited for the ballet! After all, itās what brought me to Rome, the heart and soul of my trip! Itās going to be the most exquisite experience, the embodiment of artistic brilliance and ethereal beauty, the magic of dancing, twirlingā¦ oh, and my own tutu is definitely packed, so expect a post with photos of me in my pink tutu amidst the grandness of the Rome Opera!
Remember, my dearest readers, life is too short to take it too seriously. Donāt be afraid to embrace your inner tutu-loving ballerina. Let the rhythm of life carry you, and spread joy wherever you go.
Ciao for now!
Emma xxx
www.pink-tutu.com
