Wednesday 15th September 2010
Hello darlings! It's Wednesday, which means it's time for another installment of my Pink Tutu travels! Today I'm writing to you from the Eternal City, Rome! I just adore this city, it's bursting with history and glamour, just like my favourite tutu! I arrived on a glorious Sunday afternoon, all those amazing old buildings just bathed in the golden sunlight, it was like stepping into a fairytale.
Now, as a rule, I travel by train - you can't beat that chugging along feeling, it's so reminiscent of those lovely old railway carriages. However, Rome is quite the trek from Derbyshire (even my trusty train journey involved a little bus ride to get me to St. Pancras), so this time I flew in on Easyjet. It was a little on the "no frills" side, but the view was sensational. It's amazing how the world shrinks when you're looking down on it!
I checked into a little gem of a hotel near Piazza Navona - the "Hotel del Sole", quite apt for someone who lives for a good dose of sunshine. It's a lovely boutique hotel with the most exquisite decor. I particularly loved the vintage-style furniture, all curvy and whimsical just like me! And best of all? There's a pink-hued bougainvillea blooming by the entrance! Can you believe it?! It was almost like destiny was giving me a "welcome to Rome" pink kiss!
I have to say, I am completely in awe of the Roman architecture. Those mighty columns, those imposing fountains... It feels like walking through a grand ballet performance! You know, I was picturing a troupe of dancers in swirling tulle skirts, pirouetting against a backdrop of those majestic structures... Maybe I'll start my own "Roman Tutu Ballet"?! Think of the photo ops, darling!
This morning I embarked on a whirlwind exploration of the Colosseum, a colossal sight! I must admit, I'd only seen it in photos and films before, but seeing it in the flesh (or should I say "in the stones"?) is utterly breath-taking. I couldn't help but feel a little intimidated, all those stories of gladiators and wild beasts. But at the same time, I was fascinated. The Romans knew how to throw a good show, that much is certain. It must have been quite a spectacle, those gladiatorial contests. I do wish ballet had been more of a "thing" back then, though. Can you imagine, darling, a beautiful tutu-clad ballerina dancing on the stage where the gladiators once fought? Oh, the contrast, the drama, the sheer artistry!
After my historical escapade, I took a leisurely stroll along the Tiber River, admiring the panoramic views of Rome from Ponte Sant'Angelo. This bridge is simply charming, with its perfectly balanced mix of history and art. The Angel statues on each side add a touch of the celestial, a feeling that the ancient gods must have roamed these very streets. I couldn't resist snapping a photo of myself with a strategically placed "angel" - of course, I had my favourite pink tutu on for the occasion.
After that, it was off to indulge in a little bit of retail therapy! Rome is a fashion paradise, darling, with shops galore! I managed to snagged a divine pair of emerald green platform shoes (that fabulous pop of colour!), a flowy floral maxi dress perfect for strolling the cobbled streets, and some oh-so-stylish scarves, all perfect for accessorising with my pink tutus, naturally! I feel a little Italian flair creeping into my wardrobe. It's all about effortless style with just a touch of pizzazz!
And speaking of pizzazz... I mustn't forget to mention the food! I've already tried the most divine pasta carbonara, and tonight I'm going to explore the world of pizza! The smells wafting from those little family-run trattorias are enough to make anyone's stomach rumble. I can't wait!
My pink tutu has already taken a few adventures in Rome, too! I couldn't resist striking a few poses against the magnificent backdrop of the Spanish Steps and even ventured inside the breathtakingly beautiful Pantheon, its dome just reaching for the heavens, all those celestial designs! A real ballerina would be most welcome there!
And tonight, I have a ballet date! My schedule's packed with dance events while I'm in Rome. I managed to get tickets for the Opera di Roma's production of "Swan Lake"! How fabulous is that?! It's at the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma, which is known for its grandeur and its magnificent acoustics. Imagine! Tutu-clad swans dancing under the gilded ceilings, oh the splendour!
I know some people may think wearing a pink tutu around Rome is a little unconventional, but you know what, darling? I say embrace the unconventional! It's about being yourself, spreading a little joy, and, most importantly, celebrating life with every twirl!
So until next Wednesday, stay fabulous, darlings, and remember, there's a pink tutu waiting for you out there somewhere! Ciao!
Emma xoxoxo
