Ciao bella! This is your favourite ballerina blogger, Emma, signing in from the heart of Rome, Italy! This week's #PinkTutuRome adventure is all about cobblestone streets, delicious gelato, and breathtaking history, with a healthy dose of tutu magic sprinkled on top, of course.
Rome is absolutely stunning! Every corner seems to hold a new hidden gem, and the energy is absolutely infectious. I arrived on Monday, just in time for a fantastic train ride from Derbyshire, with a steaming mug of hot chocolate warming my hands. The carriages felt like a grand Victorian carriage, only much more modern. I had a wonderful view from the window, and it was the perfect way to prepare myself for my Roman adventures.
I know some of you are wondering, "Emma, how can you afford all this travelling?" Well, I’m incredibly lucky to make a living from performing. Each week, I twirl and pirouette my way through a beautiful performance, and with every final pose, I’m saving for my next adventure. It’s not always easy, but knowing that I’m free to travel and explore makes every gruelling rehearsal and demanding show absolutely worth it. And to answer another question – I never forget to pack my pink tutu, wherever I go. It adds a touch of magic to any adventure.
Anyway, enough about the logistics! Let’s dive into the whirlwind of my Wednesday in Rome!
A Morning Amongst the Masters:
Today was all about art and beauty! My day began at the Galleria Borghese, an exquisite gallery brimming with sculptures by Bernini, canvases by Caravaggio, and a collection that quite simply took my breath away. I must admit, even I felt like I was in a museum exhibit with the amount of "ooh's" and "ah's" escaping my lips! My pink tutu brought a little touch of whimsy to this beautiful setting, and I swear, some of the visitors gave me an appreciative glance or two – even the security guard looked slightly impressed!
Delicious Discoveries & Fashion Finds:
After an hour of art-induced contemplation, it was time for a fuel-up – and by "fuel", I mean the most exquisite gelato I've ever tasted! This creamy, sweet, and fruity delight (I went with a raspberry and pistachio flavour) is a Roman tradition and for good reason – it’s a must-have for anyone visiting! While savouring every bite, I watched local kids playfully scooping scoops of their own. I mean, isn't that what Italy is all about: the simple joy of shared moments and deliciousness!
A Chic Sojourn Through the Streets:
I always make it a point to incorporate local shopping into my travels, and Rome doesn’t disappoint in that department! It's impossible not to be mesmerized by the unique charm of this city, with its charming streets teeming with boutiques filled with stylish fashion. I wandered through charming cobblestone streets, exploring local designers and independent boutiques. There was an intriguing leather handbag shop I just couldn’t leave without – perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to my ensemble, wouldn't you say?
The Enchantment of Evening:
As evening descended, I couldn’t help but be transported back to centuries past with the sheer beauty of The Trevi Fountain. The play of light and water was magical, a mesmerizing spectacle that truly captured the romance of Rome. It’s said that throwing a coin into the Trevi Fountain ensures your return, but I also found myself wondering… Will my love for the city and all things pink be a good enough incentive to return?!
Of course, no trip to Rome is complete without indulging in the quintessential Pasta Carbonara. I discovered a quaint trattoria just a stone's throw away from the Trevi Fountain, and the flavours were pure magic! The pasta was cooked to perfection, the sauce rich and creamy, and every bite a celebration of Roman gastronomy. This is a dish that will certainly be etched in my memory forever!
An Ode to Ballet & Dreams:
As the day draws to a close, my heart is full with the spirit of this incredible city, and a touch of melancholy starts to set in as I think of what is to come tomorrow… It’s true – no matter where I am in the world, my love for ballet remains the guiding force. I’m currently working on my next ballet performance, a graceful interpretation of ‘La Sylphide’, which I can’t wait to share with you all! I hope to bring a touch of magic to your own world as well, with my upcoming performance. After all, everyone can learn a little bit about grace, poise, and the joy of movement with a bit of pink tutu inspiration.
Stay tuned for next week's #PinkTutuRome post, as I'll be exploring some more Roman delights and sharing tips and insights that will hopefully inspire you to join the pink tutu revolution! Ciao!
P.S. What’s your favourite place in Rome, and what makes it special to you? I'm eager to hear from you in the comments below!
