Buongiorno, my darling dears! It’s Emma here, your resident Pink Tutu traveller, back from a whirlwind trip through the Eternal City – Rome, the home of ancient ruins, fabulous food, and of course, more tutus than you can shake a stick at (but please don't! We love tutus!).
This week, we're going all "La Dolce Vita" with a twist – think Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday…but in a tutu! Let's take a trip down memory lane, shall we?
The Journey BeginsStepping off the train from Florence (did you know you can buy beautiful, vintage Italian linen for a song in Florence?!), my heart soared. As my trusty red case, adorned with ballet shoes, rumbled on the luggage cart, I couldn't help but feel like a tiny, sparkly ballerina taking centre stage on the grand platform of Termini Station. Rome, here I come!
You know, there's nothing quite like that first whiff of Italian air. The salty breeze, a hint of olive oil and, surprisingly, the distinct aroma of a perfectly brewed espresso (they love their coffee here, you see).
I was met with the most dazzling sun (I was positively glowing in my pink-and-white, polka-dot sun dress – it was, shall we say, "perfect"). I grabbed a taxi, a lovely little Fiat 500 that wouldn't have looked out of place in a Sophia Loren movie, and headed straight for my hotel – an absolute charmer tucked away on a side street just a stone's throw from the Colosseum.
Ancient History with a Pink TwistDid you know? Today, 14th August 2019, is a Roman festival! Ferragosto - a celebration of the summer harvest with bonfires, feasts and all the fun. Rome was a little more crowded than usual, with locals taking their traditional vacation and enjoying the relaxed summer atmosphere. The Romans really know how to make the most of the beautiful weather - with rooftop terraces and cobbled streets full of delicious aromas, the city seemed to be swirling in a summery celebration.
Speaking of celebration, no trip to Rome would be complete without a visit to the Colosseum – an absolutely breathtaking sight. It really brought those gladiator movies to life, with every brick, every arched passageway. Of course, I had to spin in my new tutu skirt (a beautiful, soft, pale pink chiffon) – wouldn't be a Pink Tutu blog without a bit of whimsical flair, would it?!
A Taste of the Roman FeastNext on my agenda? The Pantheon, a true architectural wonder. And who doesn't love a good Italian pizza? So, after a walk, I found myself nestled into a tiny, tucked-away cafe where the aroma of fresh basil and mozzarella drifted from the open kitchen. A delicious margarita pizza later, my soul felt happy, perfectly content under the Tuscan sun, listening to the gentle chatter around me.
You can find amazing little cafes just like this all around Rome - hidden treasures waiting to be discovered! And it wouldn't be Rome without a stop for gelato! Think the freshest flavours of strawberries, raspberry, and even pistachio (you can never have too much pistachio!). The Italians sure know how to create the ultimate ice cream treat - a creamy, decadent symphony in a cone, the perfect antidote to a scorching day.
Ballet and Fashion in the Eternal CitySpeaking of my favourite things – how did I fare in the fashion world of Rome? It’s no secret that the Italians have their finger on the pulse of trends! There were so many exquisite clothes and accessories in every boutique and department store! The vibrant colours and the way the locals carried themselves was, well, breathtakingly stylish, a sort of "wear it with confidence" attitude, and the fashion scene was just bursting with Italian glamour.
Oh, and let's talk ballet! While in Rome, I went to see Romeo and Juliet, a beautiful rendition at the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma, it was simply magical. I can still hear the elegant steps, feel the soaring music – a night of breathtaking artistry that left me on a cloud nine of happiness!
Ciao, Rome, CiaoAfter an incredible week, it was time to say "Ciao Bella!" to Rome. As I bid farewell to the city's bustling energy and ancient whispers, I couldn’t help but reflect. Rome - you were a love affair for the senses, a kaleidoscope of history, delicious flavours, and exquisite style – and as for the tutus...well, Rome had definitely provided some new inspiration!
Now, off to Venice for my next adventure. Will you join me?
Until next Wednesday, darling readers,
Yours always,
Emma, the Pink Tutu Traveller.
P.S. Don't forget to visit www.pink-tutu.com to follow my adventures! #PinkTutuRome #LaDolceVita #ItalyTravel #Rome
