Ciao bella!
This week I'm writing to you from the eternal city, Rome! I'm so excited to be exploring the history and beauty of this amazing place.
As you know, I absolutely adore travelling by train, and my journey here was just glorious. The Eurostar whisked me through the French countryside, and then I hopped on a high-speed train to Rome, surrounded by sunshine and breathtaking scenery.
Now, I've already said it before, but Rome is truly magnificent! There's such a vibrant, rich energy here, a real sense of history and romance that just washes over you. It feels like the world has slowed down here, people take their time to enjoy the delicious coffee, sip on fresh orange juice, and wander through the cobbled streets with a joyful air. I can definitely see why they call this city the “Eternal City” - it's timeless!
A Ballerina's Delight
It goes without saying that a trip to Rome wouldn’t be complete without visiting the incredible ballet schools and theatres. I found a charming little boutique ballet studio nestled in a cobbled back street near the Colosseum. I slipped into a perfectly fitting pink leotard and sparkly tutu for my ballet class (the colour pink just looks so magnificent under the Roman sun, you know!). The instructor was fantastic, her technique flawless and inspiring, and I just felt so energized and alive as I stretched and twirled in the studio space.
After the class, I was treated to a lovely Italian coffee, sat at a little cafe watching the locals going about their day, their faces all illuminated by the golden light of the setting sun. Such beautiful memories.
Fashion and Frocks
Of course, a trip to Italy isn’t complete without some serious shopping, and Rome truly has it all! I spent the afternoon wandering through the amazing shops on Via Condotti. Oh my, the colours, the fabrics, the styles – simply stunning! I snagged a gorgeous turquoise silk scarf to go with my new summer dresses (you just have to indulge in a little retail therapy in Rome, don't you?!) And I think I may have found the perfect pink tutu for my upcoming performance - fingers crossed it fits me like a dream!
Later, I found a small antique shop bursting with vintage treasures, and I unearthed a beautiful little brooch featuring a pink ballet shoe - it was like it was made for my tutu!
Eating Like a Queen (and Dancing Like One, Too!)
Oh my goodness, the food! Italy truly does take dining to a whole new level, and the aroma of freshly baked bread, spices, and roasted vegetables wafts through the streets at every corner! I've sampled a plethora of pastas (my personal favourite has to be a simple, classic cacio e pepe - simple but divine!) and devoured fresh pizzas (which tasted even more amazing than they smelled!). And the ice cream! Oh, the ice cream! You could eat a different flavour every day for a year and never be bored. It's sweet, it's refreshing, and it's so very Italian!
After my dinner tonight, I popped into a nearby theatre to catch a performance of the ballet "Swan Lake." The dancers were phenomenal - they brought the story to life with such emotion and passion. It was utterly magical, and watching their graceful movements set me all aglow with inspiration. I was captivated for the entire evening, transported back to my early days as a young ballet dancer in Derbyshire, where it all began.
Rome, You Have Stolen My Heart
It's been such a joy exploring this city of ancient wonders, beautiful buildings, and delicious cuisine. I feel so connected to the rich history here, and I've been enchanted by the lively culture. The locals have been so kind and welcoming, even though my Italian isn't exactly fluent yet. They always seem to be laughing, smiling, and enjoying themselves – which I just adore.
So, what’s next? Tomorrow I’ll be visiting the Trevi Fountain - legend has it if you toss a coin in the fountain, you’re guaranteed to return! So naturally, I'll be sure to make a wish - it would be quite the feat to return to Rome again and again, so a pink tutu wearing ballerina can always explore all this beauty and splendour!
I hope you've enjoyed my first impressions of Rome! Be sure to check back next Wednesday for another pink tutu update from the Eternal City.
Until then, spread some joy and pink tutus to everyone you meet,
Emma xx
P.S. Don't forget to visit my website www.pink-tutu.com for even more photos and updates on my travels! You can also follow me on my ballet journey, as I share my adventures from stage to street - wherever my pink tutu may lead me next!
