Ciao bella! It's Emma, your favourite pink-tutu-wearing, ballet-obsessed blogger, and I'm so excited to be back in Rome! This beautiful city always leaves me feeling inspired, like I could pirouette right through the cobbled streets and straight into a grand opera. It's Wednesday, the 9th of September, 2009, and my Roman adventure is just getting started. As you know, my travels are always fuelled by my passion for ballet.
A Train Ride of Pink Dreams
My journey started with the magic of a train ride! There's something so enchanting about travelling by train, the chugging of the engine, the rolling countryside, and the feeling that adventure is just around the corner. Of course, I embraced the opportunity to show off my latest pink tutu acquisition - a whimsical floral number that swirled beautifully in the carriage. It even attracted the attention of a charming Italian gentleman who complimented my "stile italiano" with a flourish! (Oh, how I love their passion for fashion!)
Arriving in Style
Rome Station greeted me with its magnificent marble grandeur, and as soon as I set foot in the city, I knew this week was going to be spectacular! This time, I’ve decided to stay in a small boutique hotel near the Pantheon - the perfect spot to explore the heart of the Eternal City. The staff are just adorable - I got to chat to one of the ladies about my passion for ballet and guess what? She invited me to watch a performance by the local ballet school next week! I simply couldn't have asked for a more welcoming introduction to Roman culture!
Rome's Fashion Fiasco?
Let's talk shopping! I've always been fascinated by Italian fashion, with its rich history of elegance and flair. Sadly, I must admit, I had a slight wardrobe crisis in the Eternal City this week! Don’t get me wrong, there are amazing shops with exquisite pieces, but they just seem to cater to a "more mature" audience! I mean, where was the pink? The tutus? The whimsical fashion that truly sparks my creative spirit?
Now, don't get me wrong, I am a creature of comfort, and some of my favourite pieces came from a quirky little boutique in Trastevere, but my hunt for the perfect, playful outfit led me on a bit of a chase. I found myself whispering, "More pink, please!" at several shops, but unfortunately, it seemed like pink was being given a "pink slip" in favour of bolder shades. Don’t get me wrong, Rome’s vibrant street style deserves a whole other blog post - a visual feast! But, for my sartorial sensibilities, I just missed those splashes of sugary sweetness.
The Beauty of a Ballet Class
Undeterred, I embarked on a search for a local ballet class! You know me, always up for an energetic and inspiring pirouette, no matter where I am. I ended up in a studio with views of the Colosseum, learning classic movements in the shadow of such an awe-inspiring landmark. It was incredible to feel my own artistic spirit resonating with the energy of Rome's glorious past.
Catching a Show
A visit to Rome wouldn't be complete without taking in a spectacular show. So, on Wednesday evening, I headed to the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma, dressed to the nines in a shimmering pink tutu, a satin jacket, and delicate pearls, just in time for the enchanting world premiere of "The Dream of Juliet." The music was stunning, the sets were elaborate and, of course, the dancing was breath-taking. It truly is a pleasure to see the dedication and skill that comes from years of practice! I'm not even sure which I enjoyed more – the music, the costumes, or the dancing!
A Taste of Roman Indulgence
Of course, a trip to Rome would not be complete without enjoying the delectable delights of Italian cuisine! Today I savoured the best pasta carbonara of my life! As I sipped my cappuccino overlooking the Trevi Fountain, I felt incredibly fortunate to be in this vibrant and captivating city, soaking up the delicious flavours of Italy.
Pink Tutu Rome: Day Seven - To be Continued
My adventures in the Eternal City are just beginning! My Roman Diary continues next week - expect to be whisked away with stories of delicious treats, magnificent museums, hidden trattorias, and a tutu-tastic encounter with a famous Italian artist! Stay tuned, darling!
P.S. Don't forget, I post my Roman adventures every Wednesday. Keep those comments coming, and please tell me if you'd like me to try a particular restaurant or find the best shopping spots for your pink tutu collection! After all, every adventure deserves a pink tutu touch!
Stay pink and twirl with joy,
Emma xoxo
