Hello darlings! It’s your favourite pink tutu wearing ballerina, Emma, here, and I am simply positively giddy to be writing to you all from Rome! Yes, that’s right, I have traded the rolling hills of Derbyshire for the cobblestone streets of the Eternal City, and oh, what an adventure it has been so far!
This week’s blog post marks #PinkTutuRome number 520 – can you believe it? That’s over ten years of travelling and blogging my way around the world in my pink tutus, and Rome, it’s just got to be one of my absolute favourites.
Now, I know some of you are wondering, “Emma, how do you fund all these travels?” Well, darling, let me tell you – it’s all about the performances. From private recitals to charity events to travelling ballets, every pirouette and arabesque contributes to the dream. The good news is that after years of hard work, the little ballerina with big dreams can finally travel the world!
This week in Rome, I’ve been soaking up all the beauty and history. You just cannot beat the stunning architecture and charming piazzas, not to mention the most delicious gelato! I swear, I’ve had gelato every single day – my favourite so far is the hazelnut and pistachio, although it’s a close call with the limoncello! It’s no wonder Italy is known for its culinary delights, it’s simply divine.
Speaking of delights, I have to tell you about my adventures in the fashion district! It’s like a wonderland of gorgeous fabrics, exquisite designs and truly breathtaking window displays. Now, darling, I may be partial to pink (I mean, come on, it’s my colour!), but the fashion here in Rome is seriously making me swoon. I couldn’t resist buying a stunning scarlet silk scarf that I'm sure will pair perfectly with my favourite tulle tutu (of course it’s pink!), and I also snagged the cutest pair of silver ballerinas, just perfect for all my traipsing about. I have this incredible feeling that a lot more sartorial treats will be making their way home with me when I leave Rome – maybe even a gorgeous pink number!
Speaking of shopping, my absolute highlight of this week was visiting the Trevi Fountain. Oh my heavens, the craftsmanship is truly astonishing! It’s easy to see why this place has been used in countless films – it’s incredibly magical and beautiful. Naturally, I made a wish for more incredible dance opportunities (maybe even a ballet performance in the Coliseum? – that would be amazing!). And, of course, I tossed a coin into the fountain – for good luck, of course.
I’m writing to you from the heart of Rome today – The Pantheon! It’s breathtakingly grand and full of such history. It's easy to lose yourself for hours in awe of its beauty. The dome, the marble columns, the details – it’s an absolute feast for the senses!
One thing I really love about travelling is discovering local traditions. This week, I went to see a ballet performance in the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma - you wouldn’t believe how amazing it was! I absolutely fell in love with the choreography, and it really did feel like being a part of something special. It also gave me plenty of inspiration for my own practice and upcoming performances, and of course, a huge boost to my already booming enthusiasm for all things ballet!
But you know me, darling, I don’t just love traditional performances. Oh no! Rome is bursting with vibrant street performances. It seems like there's a mime or a magician around every corner! The best part? I found a group of dancers performing near the Spanish Steps. It was an absolute whirlwind of emotion – pure energy and joy flowing through their every move! Honestly, I was so mesmerized that I practically did a pirouette myself – but I refrained, in the interests of keeping things dignified!
It goes without saying that I am absolutely loving every minute of this trip. There’s just something about Rome that truly captivates the soul! The history, the culture, the food – it’s a beautiful symphony of vibrant colours and intoxicating sights and sounds. The people here are friendly and warm, and the streets are abuzz with life. It’s everything I had hoped it would be, and more!
If you’re ever planning a trip to Italy, darling, Rome has to be on your list. I would highly recommend you come for a week – and a pink tutu is a must, of course! It’s the perfect excuse to visit a country steeped in romance and charm, and soak up all its wonders!
Until next week, darlings, I’m signing off, and you know what they say… “Roma non fa traboccare la coppa.” Or, in other words, “Rome will not run over the cup!” Now, you know what to do, darling – get your travel planning hats on!
Lots of love and tutus,
Emma 🩰 💖
www.pink-tutu.com
Follow me on Instagram: @pinktutuemma
