Ciao bellas! It's Wednesday, and you know what that means? It's time for another Pink Tutu Rome adventure!
This week, I've landed in the Eternal City, my trusty pink tutu packed and ready to twirl amongst the ancient ruins. I can’t believe I’ve actually made it, after months of planning and saving. Those of you who know me know I love ballet, and of course I LOVE pink. But for me, Rome represents the epitome of romance, of history, of breathtaking art and delicious food – it’s all wrapped up in one glorious package!
Speaking of delicious food, the train ride down was a foodie’s dream! A steaming plate of pasta with lashings of creamy sauce and some of the freshest bread you’ve ever seen – so dreamy. Oh, and the Italian Aperol spritz? Heavenly! As if to remind me I was indeed in Italy, our charming train carriage was serenaded by a local band, strumming beautiful Italian tunes on their guitars. My favourite part was definitely when they played "O Sole Mio," – it had my toes tapping, even in my super comfy ballet shoes!
And now I’m here, finally, standing beneath the towering Colosseum, its stone facade catching the afternoon sun in an incredible blaze of orange. It's just as magnificent as I'd imagined, maybe even more so! I can’t believe I’m walking where gladiators once fought! I know it might sound a bit corny, but Rome makes you feel like you're walking in history, each step a tiny footstep in the past. It's kind of overwhelming.
Speaking of the past, after I’d finished ogling the Colosseum, I took a trip to the Trevi Fountain. Let me tell you, this is no ordinary fountain, ladies. It’s a show-stopper! We’re talking swirling marble, intricate sculptures and just the most dazzling cascade of water – a true spectacle. Now, of course I had to throw in a coin for good luck. Two, in fact, as I have to return, and it’s important to ensure my Italian dream has a happy ending!
Before it got too dark, I headed over to the Pantheon. This incredible temple was actually built almost 2000 years ago – mind blown, right? And that enormous circular opening at the top of the dome – a true masterpiece of engineering! You’d think after all that time it would have crumbled and gone, but here it stands – testament to the power of imagination and engineering skill. I had a wander inside and was amazed by its size, its perfect proportions, and the dappled light streaming in. Truly awe-inspiring.
After the Pantheon, I wandered around, following my nose to a bustling, colourful market. There, amongst rows of fruit, vegetables, cheese, and fresh bread, I spied a stall overflowing with colourful tutus, the most beautiful shade of bubblegum pink! It’s amazing how one can feel instantly transported by the sheer delight of a pretty tutu, wouldn’t you say? And guess what? They even had matching ballet flats! I bought them, obviously – you have to have some fancy pink things in your suitcase, right?
The evening, like everything in Rome, was nothing short of magical. It all started at Teatro dell’Opera di Roma, with a stunning ballet performance. It wasn't the traditional swan lake or nutcracker that I’m used to seeing at my ballet studio in Derbyshire. No, this was modern ballet with a powerful, energetic flair. It was all edgy and dramatic and showcased the amazing skills of some truly gifted dancers! The movements were a perfect blend of grace, strength, and expression. I've never seen anything like it.
Then, as the curtain came down on the performance, my Italian adventure got a whole lot more special. One of the dancers, a beautiful brunette with a vibrant red tutu, spotted me in my own pink one. She smiled and gave me a wave! It was like she recognized me, another fellow Tutu Warrior! I must admit, the experience left me feeling rather emotional. Ballet connects us all – no matter the language or location, we speak the universal language of dance.
But my night wasn't over yet. With my belly rumbling and a growing craving for pizza, I ventured to Trastevere – a vibrant, buzzing district. You can’t come to Rome without trying the local fare, so I ordered a classic Margherita and some heavenly pasta. Of course, with a lovely Italian wine to accompany it, all under a sky brimming with twinkling stars. Perfect!
And that, my darlings, brings us to the end of another thrilling day in the capital of Italy. Rome truly is a city for everyone, for every interest, every personality, even for a pink tutu wearing ballet dancer from Derbyshire, England! Tomorrow, we are going to see the Trevi Fountain again – this time with the intention of making a splash in its magical waters, and exploring the charming cobbles of Rome. We’re going to see so much and experience the very best of the city. And maybe I’ll even give that new pink tutu of mine a whirl amongst the fountains and historic sites. But don’t you worry, I’ll document it all for you in next week's post. Stay tuned!
Arrivederci!
Emma xP.S. Remember, life is much brighter in pink. So go on, wear your pink tutu, share it with the world, and be fearless in pursuing your dreams. And don’t forget to visit Pink Tutu online for some truly wonderful tutus, ballet-inspired fashion and travel tips at www.pink-tutu.com
