Hello my gorgeous tutu-loving lovelies! It's your favourite pink-clad ballerina, Emma, bringing you another fabulous instalment of "Pink Tutu Rome," directly from the cobblestone heart of the Eternal City.
It's Wednesday, the 7th of February, 2018, and Rome is abuzz with energy! I've been in Italy for a whole week now, and the experience has been, as always, utterly captivating. It's the kind of city that can grab your attention with a whisper of history, a captivating melody wafting from a street corner musician, or a captivating storefront filled with Italian craftsmanship.
This week's adventures started with a trip to the majestic Trevi Fountain. Oh, the sheer beauty of it all! I stood mesmerised, watching the cascading water transform the sunlight into a thousand shimmering rainbows, while I dreamed of the grand stories etched within those ancient stone walls. I tossed my coin (of course, it was a beautiful Italian one with a little ballerina engraved on it) and whispered my wish to return someday - hopefully, for a performance at the stunning Opera House that dominates the cityscape!
Speaking of captivating melodies, my week in Rome has been a whirlwind of musical delights! I managed to snag tickets to a classical music concert at the Auditorium Parco della Musica – the acoustics were astounding! It reminded me so much of those magnificent Parisian concert halls I visited last year – breathtaking! The soaring notes carried me away on a cloud of pure artistic bliss.
Now, no visit to Rome would be complete without indulging in a little bit of fashion heaven, right? I’m not sure if it’s the incredible historical architecture, the Italian art scene, or the chic Parisians who frequent these boutiques, but Rome has the most exquisite fashion I have ever seen. This week, I popped into the breathtaking Giorgio Armani flagship store - a modern masterpiece with displays like pieces of art! I'm saving up for that divine rose gold evening dress I saw, so don't be surprised to see it in a future post! I just have to have it for a future ballet gala performance.
Of course, my favourite way to explore the city is on foot - that way I can properly soak up the ambience of Rome's narrow alleyways, admire the architectural wonders, and even sneak in some ballet exercises at those gorgeous piazzas. It's been absolutely exhilarating! Plus, the cobblestone streets, coupled with my trusty, very very pink ballet shoes, provides the most perfect opportunity to practice my en pointe steps. It was all rather lovely. I can't recommend a walking tour enough!
A delightful perk of exploring a new city on foot? It's the opportunity to stumble across a little slice of heaven – the hidden gem. This week I happened upon a tiny bakery tucked away in a tiny little alley. They had the most glorious cannolis - delicate shells filled with rich creamy ricotta - a real treat! It reminded me of the delightful pastry I tried at the famous Opera Garnier in Paris - my absolute favourite spot. It really did feel like I had stumbled upon a slice of Parisian heaven.
Now, for some serious fun, it's time to delve into my Rome must-do recommendations:
Get Lost In The Ancient Wonder: Of course, visiting the Colosseum is an absolute must! It's breathtaking! It's a humbling reminder of the grandeur and skill of a civilization long past, a towering testament to the human capacity for greatness. I have never seen anything quite so magnificent in my life. And even as a modern ballerina, I am incredibly impressed by the intricate details of the architecture and the design of its structure - the sheer scale of it is just staggering! Just try to imagine what it must have looked like in its glory days - packed full of crowds eager to witness a grand gladiatorial spectacle! I think I spent at least three hours wandering through its many walkways and chambers, imagining the incredible scenes from millennia ago.
Dive Deep Into Roman History: Rome isn’t just a beautiful place – it’s absolutely bursting with fascinating history, stories that come alive in every corner of the city. It’s history you can touch! Make sure you grab yourself a map and venture out to the ancient Roman Forum. Wander through the remains of grand temples, basilicas, and Senate buildings - I literally feel like I’ve been transported back to the glorious Roman Empire! It truly does bring history to life. Be sure to stop for a photo in front of the Forum and share your own little piece of history.
Embrace The Eternal City : To experience the heart of Rome, venture beyond the famous tourist sights and delve into the lesser-known but equally magical neighborhoods. It was in Trastevere, where narrow cobblestone streets weave their way past charming trattorias, that I experienced the real charm of this city. I spent hours exploring, enjoying an authentic Italian lunch and getting lost in the lively energy of the neighbourhood - the best of Roman charm in a small, perfectly crafted package.
And my darlings, what is a travel post without some advice for all you fashionable pink-loving belles? Here are my tips to perfectly pink up your Rome itinerary:
Think Pretty Pink Pink: Of course, you need to bring your most adorable pink tutu for those photo opportunities. If you’re looking for inspiration, remember, Rome is a haven for haute couture. Try the pink tutu paired with an oversized denim jacket for that relaxed yet chic traveller look - it’s going to make you stand out from the crowd, darling! This city deserves to be photographed in full, vibrant pink.
Shop Till You Drop: When you are exploring the gorgeous Italian boutique scene, it is absolutely essential to embrace the most divine pink outfits! Look out for delicate pink lace, stunning floral prints in every shade of pink imaginable, and all the soft hues to enhance your natural radiance. There’s a pink for everyone! Just be prepared to go a little pink crazy in these fashion-filled boulevards.
Roman Holiday Flair Remember my darlings, in Italy, less is truly more. A chic scarf and sunglasses make for a super cute and travel-friendly accessory. Don't forget those bright pink-toned blush and lipsticks to create a look that will get all eyes on you. Trust me, the Italians are obsessed with style!
Rome, my darlings, you truly have captured my heart. With your magnificent monuments, exquisite cuisine, and the charm of every alleyway and piazza, it is no wonder you're called the Eternal City! It's a place I could visit time and time again and still find something new to explore! This journey, this breathtaking adventure, has already given me the inspiration for so many future ballet performances and wardrobe plans.
Until next Wednesday, darlings, keep your tutus at the ready, your spirits bright, and your hearts open to the magic that awaits you! And remember, in this whirlwind of life, just like the steps in ballet, it’s all about balance, grace and above all, a bit of playful pinkness.
Until then, darlings! Your Tutu Loving Friend, Emma x
www.pink-tutu.com
