Pink Tutu Rome #519: Ciao Bella! A Whirlwind Tour of Eternal Beauty (Wednesday 2005-05-18)
Ciao, darlings! It’s Emma from www.pink-tutu.com, and guess what? I’m in Rome! That’s right, I’ve traded my Derbyshire cobbled streets for the cobblestone grandeur of the Eternal City.
You know I love a good train journey, and this one was no exception. Whizzing through the countryside, I was already feeling a sense of anticipation for the wonders of Rome. The air was thick with the scent of springtime, and I felt like I was stepping into a scene straight out of a vintage travel poster.
Of course, I’ve been dreaming of visiting Rome for years. It’s the city where fashion meets history, where ancient ruins mingle with contemporary boutiques and where coffee flows like wine. What could be more perfect for a girl with a penchant for pink tutus?
But before I embark on my Italian adventure, let me tell you all about my journey! I must admit, I was already a little apprehensive about navigating the complexities of the Italian railway system. (My last attempt at taking the train in Spain wasn’t the most seamless, but thankfully the train gods were on my side this time!)
So, I arrived at Rome Termini station feeling like a whirlwind of pink tulle and nervous excitement.
My first order of business was to find my hotel, a charming little boutique hotel nestled near the Trevi Fountain. Just the sight of the famous fountain, all cascading water and shimmering coins, sent a shiver down my spine – the sort of shiver that comes with knowing you’re about to embark on a magical journey.
And oh, the shopping! It wasn't long before I found myself browsing the Via Condotti - Rome's answer to Fifth Avenue. Imagine my delight when I stumbled upon a small shop that specialised in vintage ballet shoes! I have to say, a delicate pair of beige satin pointe shoes with a subtle pink ribbon tied around them went straight into my bag - you know how I love a bargain!
Speaking of bargains, I’ve managed to find a little secret gem here in Rome: a fabulous secondhand clothes shop run by a woman named Isabella. She's got an incredible eye for vintage pieces, and I'm already dreaming of styling a pink tutu with one of her silk scarves for a fabulous night out.
Today, though, I was more about soaking in the history. Walking past the Colosseum with its towering majesty was breathtaking. Just picture it: the remnants of the mighty Roman Empire, still standing tall after centuries, all wrapped in a soft evening light. It was like stepping onto the set of a historical drama. And then, my heart just skipped a beat. I spied the Pantheon peeking through the cobblestones, its majestic dome an echo of Rome’s timeless spirit.
My heart was full, and I was buzzing with energy, but I needed some serious R&R after all that excitement. My new favourite thing to do in Rome has been to relax in one of the countless charming cafes dotted around the city. I'm talking about little havens where you can watch the world go by while sipping on an espresso or a glass of something bubbly.
Speaking of bubbly, this evening is all about celebrating the wonders of Italian cuisine and culture. Tonight, I'm off to experience an authentic opera performance at the Teatro dell’Opera. The costumes! The voices! The passion! The whole shebang is sure to be absolutely dazzling, and I’m looking forward to sharing it all with you on next week’s post.
Oh, before I go, a little something for the soul… Tonight I saw the most incredible sunset. I was standing near the Tiber River, watching the sun sink into the horizon and bathe the city in a glorious golden glow. I've always felt connected to the heavens, and standing in that magical moment, I couldn't help but think that my pink tutu was shining as bright as the sun!
I promise, dear readers, to bring you more fabulous tales of Roman adventures next week. Until then, may your days be filled with the sparkle of a pink tutu and the joyous melody of the Italian life. Ciao, for now!
Emma www.pink-tutu.com