#PinkTutuRome Wednesday 2017-10-18 exploring Rome Italy

Ciao bellas!

It's Wednesday again, which means it's time for another Pink Tutu Rome post! This week, I'm overflowing with excitement as I've just returned from a whirlwind week exploring the Eternal City, all fueled by the sheer joy of ballet and my love for all things pink.

If you follow me on Instagram, you'll already know I'm obsessed with travelling by train. There's just something so magical about gliding through different landscapes, watching the world zoom by outside your window. This week, my train journey to Rome was filled with the excitement of anticipation, picturing cobbled streets, Roman ruins and delicious gelato.

Now, as I sit here sipping an iced latte in a charming piazza, I can tell you that my dream of Rome has far exceeded any expectation!

The pink ballet heaven that is Rome

Before even reaching the heart of Rome, I knew this was going to be a special trip. Stepping off the train, the warm Italian air and scent of freshly baked bread immediately welcomed me. From there, I headed straight for the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma, where the magic truly began.

This magnificent opera house, with its ornate gilded decor and plush velvet seats, immediately captivated me. My heart soared with anticipation, as the show, "The Sleeping Beauty", began with a spectacular flourish. Seeing Tchaikovsky's masterpiece performed by such talented dancers was truly inspiring! They brought a classical elegance to the stage, showcasing beautiful moves, breathtaking artistry and incredible storytelling, leaving me in awe of their skill and commitment to the craft. I felt a deep sense of connection to the passion and dedication they displayed, reminding me of my own journey as a dancer.

But the highlight of my ballet journey in Rome came on Friday night, with a performance at Teatro Argentina. This beautiful 18th-century theatre has seen performances from legendary performers like Mozart. Standing in its opulent auditorium, I felt a sense of history wash over me. And then, the magic began.

"The Nutcracker" at Teatro Argentina is something special. Seeing this beloved Christmas classic danced with such warmth and grace in this historic theatre, the setting simply took my breath away! There's a certain charm to intimate performances, the closeness of the audience and performers allowing the energy and passion to flow freely, bringing the stories and emotions to life.

The theatre itself, adorned with beautiful carvings, ornate chandeliers, and breathtaking colours, provided the perfect backdrop for this enchanting performance. The magic of the stage combined with the artistry of the ballet transformed it into an evening of pure wonder! I knew I had to capture this magic and share it with my wonderful Pink Tutu readers, so I filmed a quick "ballet meets history" reel for my Instagram - do check it out!

Beyond the Ballet: A Shopper's Paradise!

Of course, no trip to Rome would be complete without indulging in some fashion finds! I spent a blissful morning strolling through the streets, admiring the Italian craftsmanship and exquisite displays in the many boutiques.

While it wouldn’t be fair to say I completely conquered every boutique on the Via Condotti, I certainly explored many. Finding myself immersed in the vibrant colours, exquisite designs, and impeccable quality of Italian fashion, I couldn't help but purchase a few sartorial delights - including, of course, a new pink tutu!

The boutique on the corner near the Pantheon was truly magical - they even had a selection of stunning tulle skirts in the most exquisite pink shades imaginable. I walked out with a brand-new shimmering pink tutu, perfect for twirling through the ancient streets of Rome! I can't wait to show it off when I'm back in Derbyshire!

I’m also proud to announce my newest fashion obsession: A fabulous pink leather handbag! Yes, a leather handbag. Don’t let my tutus fool you, I can embrace my love of pink in so many forms. The one I picked has beautiful metallic detail and an array of little charms, including one in the shape of a ballerina, of course! I think I may just wear it with EVERYTHING!

Tutus & The Taste of Rome

Beyond ballet and shopping, my Rome adventure has been filled with exploring, discovering and savoring everything Italy has to offer!

The ancient Colosseum is an impressive sight. Standing amongst those mighty ruins, you can truly feel the history, imagine the battles and the crowds of spectators.

A trip to the Vatican City was an incredible experience! The art and architecture are breathtaking. But the best part for me was taking in the captivating beauty of Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel ceiling. I found myself gazing up at the magnificent frescoes, lost in the artistry and sheer brilliance.

And the food? Where to even begin? The Italian culinary scene truly lives up to its reputation, and I'm embracing every bite! Every day has been a celebration of delicious pasta, mouth-watering pizzas, and decadent gelato. I've learnt how to order "un caffè, per favore" with the confidence of a local. My tip: don’t be afraid to explore the local cafes, especially those hidden away in little alleyways!

Rome, you've truly captured my heart! This vibrant city pulsates with an intoxicating blend of ancient history, timeless beauty and irresistible charm. From the enchanting ballet performances to the fashion havens and the delectable cuisine, every corner of Rome is a treasure waiting to be discovered.

I have to share a fun fact: Rome is apparently home to a "Pink Flamingo" gelato shop! I couldn’t leave Rome without trying a scoop of their special “Tutu” flavour. (You know it was pink, right? 😉). It's made with a raspberry swirl and delicate strawberry chunks - pure, delicious bliss.

Travel tip: Embrace the Tutus, and Make Every Day a Celebration!

Rome is calling out to the ballerina in all of us, and there’s no better way to answer than with a playful twist, a hint of pink and, yes, a twirl-worthy tutu!

Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and add a touch of whimsical fun to your adventures! Whether you’re dancing across a cobblestone piazza or simply enjoying a gelato while admiring the architectural marvels, let the magic of Rome embrace you and ignite your spirit.

That’s all for this week’s Pink Tutu Rome blog!

Don’t forget to share your adventures with me!

Catch you next Wednesday!