Ciao Bella! It's Emma, your Pink Tutu queen, and this week, we're dancing our way through the streets of Rome! This iconic city, filled with history, art, and stunning architecture, is a feast for the senses. And let me tell you, it's more than just a pretty face – Rome is an absolute delight for a ballet lover like me!
This Wednesday (2017-09-27) is all about exploring this ancient gem, so let's jump right in, shall we?
Train Journeys, Pink Tutues, and a Touch of Roman Magic
My travels to Rome started in a classic pink tutu. As always, the journey was an adventure in itself. I boarded a train at the Peak District station (my beautiful Derbyshire home), with the breeze gently swirling my pink tutu as the train chugged along, past rolling hills and picturesque villages. As soon as the train doors opened in Rome Termini station, I felt the energy, the buzz of history, the unmistakable rhythm of this vibrant city.
My First Taste of Italian Style
Before even settling into my hotel, I had to treat myself to some Italian fashion, my darling. Of course, I had to go for a pink tulle skirt – I couldn't possibly visit a city so steeped in history without a touch of my favourite colour! I popped into a shop, picked out the most magnificent pale pink, delicate tulle skirt (the colour reminded me of a sunset in Tuscany!) – and it was so much better with the gorgeous detail around the waistband – and with a matching sparkly pink hair clip, I felt absolutely ready to take on the Roman adventure.
A Ballerina’s Journey Through Ancient Rome
After a much-needed rest at my hotel (a quaint little spot with a rooftop terrace overlooking a breathtaking cityscape), my exploration began with a walk down the enchanting cobblestone streets. And let me tell you, walking through Rome in a pink tulle skirt is an absolute experience!
I made a beeline for the Colosseum, one of the most magnificent and well-preserved structures of the Roman Empire. Imagine a coliseum that was built specifically for performances of chariot races, gladiatorial combats, executions, and animal hunts, just picture it in your head for a second... just thinking about the excitement it generated puts me into a dancing mood! As I explored its magnificent ruins, the sheer size of the arena filled me with awe. You could almost feel the echoes of ancient battles in the air!
Then, it was onto the Pantheon, that breathtaking temple dedicated to all the gods, where sunlight streams through the “oculus” or “eye” – an opening at the top, right in the middle. As the sun bounced around the temple, it really illuminated everything. You can tell that there was incredible mathematical precision behind the design.
I found a charming café tucked away on a cobblestone lane – picture, freshly baked pastries and cappuccinos served with an incredible Italian espresso. As I sat there, taking in the flavourful aroma of Italy and sipping my coffee, I felt incredibly blessed to be living this pink tutu dream.
A Visit to the Vatican: The Heart of the Catholic Church
The Vatican City was another must-see! Walking through its stunning buildings and squares, from the sprawling St Peter’s Square, the immense and stunning St. Peter's Basilica with its incredible architecture, to the Sistine Chapel, I couldn't help but be mesmerized. The Michelangelo's ceiling frescoes, - breathtaking and exquisite. Every brush stroke told a story. It felt almost magical. The Sistine Chapel itself is small and intimate. With that incredible light shining in, it created such a powerful sense of calm and beauty.
A Dance with Destiny at The Teatro dell'Opera di Roma
Rome wouldn't be Rome without experiencing its incredible opera. And it wouldn't be me without slipping on a brand-new, shimmering pink tutu, which I bought for the occasion at a delightful boutique near the Spanish Steps!
At the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma, I watched a mesmerising performance of “La Traviata”, a beautifully crafted tale of love, heartbreak, and societal constraints. The powerful voices, the intricate staging, and the emotion flowing from the stage captivated me. I could just picture the stage all set up in my home in Derbyshire, filled with such raw emotion, drama and movement, what an amazing experience.
As I walked back to my hotel after the opera, I paused for a moment, took a deep breath, and closed my eyes, allowing the enchanting melody of the opera to resonate in my heart. This city, Rome, it's truly a place of enchantment and I knew this was a moment I would remember forever.
A Pink Tutu Dream
It’s Wednesday morning, time to leave my Pink Tutu Roman fairytale. With a smile, I'm packing my bag and getting ready to return home to the Peak District – I’m sure I’ll miss this exciting city, it’s left such an indelible impression!
Rome truly is a place that ignites the soul, reminding me to live, to love, and to dance my heart out in the most magical of tutus. The streets of this vibrant city are truly a dance floor, calling to every traveller who walks its ancient cobblestones to feel the rhythm and join the waltz of life.
See you next week for another adventure on Pink Tutu! Don't forget, if you're reading this and loving your pink tutus – join my online community on Pink Tutu’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. You know where I am - spreading pink tutu magic all over the globe!
Stay stylish and keep dancing,
Emma xoxo
