Buongiorno, darling! It’s Wednesday again and time for another installment of the Pink Tutu Travels. This week I’m stepping away from my beloved London, hopping onto the Eurostar for an adventure into the heart of Italy: Rome!
Rome, the eternal city! Even saying the name makes you feel all glamorous and historical, don’t you think? And when you pair that with pink tulle? Well, let’s just say it’s a match made in fashion heaven! This week’s tutu is a vintage, soft pink number, the colour of rose petals dusted with morning dew – absolutely perfect for strolling through the cobbled streets, basking in the Italian sun and soaking up the rich culture.
The journey to Rome itself was an adventure. There's just something about the rhythm of the train that puts me in a happy mood. The countryside whizzing past, a kaleidoscope of greens and browns and gold, while I, cocooned in my pink bubble of joy, plan my Roman escapades.
Landing in Roma Termini, the main train station, was quite a sensory overload, a whirlwind of excitement, smells of street food, chattering tourists and locals, the gentle buzz of an ancient, vibrant city. But after all the excitement, it was so very good to check into my little, pink-walled haven near the Piazza Navona, the most perfect little boutique hotel – think marble floors, elegant linen throws and vintage lace curtains. A sigh of sheer satisfaction escaped my lips, because yes, this was how a tutu-clad ballerina from Derbyshire, England envisioned the perfect Italian escape.
And what better way to start my Rome adventure than with the most fabulous ballet performance? Teatro dell'Opera di Roma (Rome's Opera House) is a beautiful old theater with ornate balconies and opulent décor, all lit by soft golden lamps. It reminded me of a romantic, historical film set! I'd heard such good things about the Rome ballet company and this evening, I witnessed their artistry firsthand! The performance? "Giselle," a masterpiece of classical ballet, performed with such grace and technical brilliance that it left me breathless. And of course, in true Pink Tutu spirit, I chose to wear a pink and white layered tutu. Because let's be honest, wouldn’t it be rude not to make a grand entrance at an opera house?
Now, if you know me, you know a good shopping spree is non-negotiable! So naturally, the next day I embarked on a shopping expedition like no other. From the charming vintage boutiques of Trastevere to the stylish, chic boutiques of the Via Condotti, I was in shopper’s paradise. Rome is, without doubt, a haven for fashionistas, bursting with luxurious Italian leather goods, beautiful handmade silk scarves, and elegant, flowy dresses that just begged to be twirled in. My most spectacular purchase? A divine, ruby red silk scarf, as light and as delicate as a butterfly's wings. Of course, a ballerina in Rome has to dress for the role, and this new addition is perfect for evenings out and waltzing through the Italian squares.
No trip to Rome would be complete without experiencing its delicious food. My senses were transported into the world of authentic Italian flavors, the tangy sweetness of tomatoes, the creamy richness of fresh mozzarella, the warmth of fresh herbs and the savory spice of roasted meats. I devoured platefuls of carbonara, pizza, and pasta with the most wonderful red wine sauces. The aroma of roasted coffee beans filled the streets, so naturally, I had to stop and enjoy the finest Italian coffee in one of those charming sidewalk cafes.
As a side note, my darling readers, it is crucial that you try Tiramisu! Oh my goodness, what a heavenly combination of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and cocoa powder - you will never want to leave Italy!
Beyond the food and the shopping, the sheer beauty of this city, the architecture, the ancient ruins, and the captivating history that seeped out of every corner just captivated my imagination.
I strolled through the ancient Colosseum, wondering about the gladiators and emperors who walked these same stones. I walked in the shadow of the Roman Forum, picturing Roman senators debating the fate of empires. I visited the Vatican, the tiny, captivating country, a place where you can feel the power and faith of history and marvel at the art and the architecture. I must admit, it's not just the grand history and the luxurious beauty that captivates, it’s also the charm of the everyday life in Rome. Sitting by a fountain, watching street musicians, the locals walking their dogs, the warmth and generosity of the people, all of these experiences add to the magic of the place.
And just because I like to add a little bit of magic to everything I do, I spent my final day in Rome by the Trevi Fountain, making a wish and throwing a coin over my shoulder, a tutu-wearing wish that maybe, someday, we can all visit the eternal city and maybe even wear a pink tutu! It wouldn't be a Pink Tutu travel blog post without a touch of magic, would it?
I must confess, my darlings, as much as I loved every minute of this whirlwind trip to Rome, my pink Tutu heart always beats for the stage. And so, with a heavy heart but a happy spirit, I left Rome for London. The magic of Rome lingers, a delicate, enchanting memory, a story etched in my heart that I’ll carry forever, waiting to be revisited, to be revisited perhaps with my dearest friend Amelia, who, like myself, dreams of ballet performances and travelling to the heart of Europe in her very own tutu. Until next week, dear readers! Ciao, bella!
Your Pink Tutu Ambassador,
Emma
