#PinkTutuRome Wednesday 2019-12-18 exploring Rome Italy

Ciao, darlings! It’s your girl, Emma, back from a whirlwind adventure in the glorious, glamorous, and utterly enchanting city of Rome!

As I write this, snowflakes are falling outside my window, back in my cosy little Derbyshire cottage, but my heart is still firmly lodged in the heart of Italy. I landed back in Blighty just yesterday, a little worse for wear from too much pasta and prosecco (but definitely a whole lot better for the experience!), and I’m bursting at the seams to share every exquisite detail of my Roman escapade with you lovely lot.

It’s December, the season of sparkle, and Rome was absolutely shimmering. From the towering pines festooned with fairy lights in Piazza Navona, to the twinkling fountains illuminating the Colosseum, to the elaborate Christmas trees lining every cobbled street, this ancient city had embraced the magic of the season with open arms (and a whole lotta gelato!).

But before I regale you with all the glitzy details, I have to tell you about the most magical way I reached this breathtaking city - by train, of course!

Let’s be real, a train journey through Europe is one of the best ways to soak in the beauty of the continent. It allows you to lose yourself in the scenery, people-watch to your heart's content, and enjoy the soothing rhythm of the rails. It’s truly a luxurious way to travel, and my pink tutu felt very much at home as I glided past charming vineyards, rolling hills, and majestic mountain ranges, feeling the wind whisk my twirling skirts in a happy waltz.

The journey, like any ballet performance, was a symphony of sensations - the melodic hum of the train, the soft rustle of the newspapers my fellow travellers were reading, the clinking of glasses as we sipped steaming mugs of hot chocolate, the rhythmic tap-tap-tap of the wheels against the track…all merging to create an irresistible lullaby that sent me into a dreamy daze.

Finally, arriving in Rome's grand Termini station, I felt like a princess stepping into a fairy tale! The bustling grandeur of the place took my breath away. All those marble arches and soaring columns, the scent of roasted chestnuts and the symphony of Italian chatter, the elegant shops showcasing the most beautiful silk scarves, it all painted an image of vibrant and elegant decadence that truly enchanted me.

It was, of course, the perfect backdrop for my pink tutu, and the Romans absolutely loved it! I got countless smiles, waves, and even a few appreciative whistles. Honestly, what better way to spread the joy of ballet and pink tutus than to waltz through a city that embraced my whimsical style with such gusto?

This week's #PinkTutuRome posts are filled with everything you need to plan a magical Italian Christmas! So grab a hot cocoa, put on your favourite playlist, and let's immerse ourselves in the magical world of Rome.

A Ballet Lover's Paradise in Rome

The first thing I discovered about Rome, and this is no secret to anyone who has ever been, is that it’s a city for foodies, fashionistas, and yes, even for ballet fanatics like myself. Rome’s charm lies in its historic charm intertwined with the contemporary vibrancy, and for a ballerina, this translates to a whirlwind of artistic experiences that you simply can't get anywhere else!

The Grandeur of The Teatro dell’Opera di Roma

I knew this had to be on my itinerary the moment I planned this trip. The Teatro dell'Opera di Roma is simply breathtaking - imagine marble and velvet in a harmonious dance, shimmering chandeliers illuminating ornate balconies, the music soaring through the magnificent, arched auditorium. It’s an operatic dream!

I had the absolute pleasure of catching a performance of Verdi’s “Aida” - an explosion of emotions, drama, and sheer vocal talent that sent chills down my spine. As the dancers twirled and pirouetted, their costumes a kaleidoscope of rich hues, I was transported to another world - a world of epic romances, fiery rivalries, and triumphant melodies.

It’s safe to say, I fell head over heels for the Italian Opera experience - a testament to their theatrical artistry, the passion for the music, and the exquisite, vibrant, and theatrical style that truly captures the essence of Italy.

Beyond the Stage - Roman Shopping for Ballerinas

I may have come for the ballet, but a girl's gotta shop! And Rome didn't disappoint.

Imagine a whirlwind of exquisite Italian leather goods, artisan perfumes, and chic boutiques showcasing the latest designs – all intertwined with the ancient beauty of cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and lively markets bustling with energy. It was like stepping into a fashion fairytale, and I felt like a ballerina in a vibrant ballet, floating from one charming shop to the next.

For the ultimate shoe enthusiast (that’s me, by the way!), I ventured to Via del Corso - a vibrant street teeming with the latest shoe trends. From elegant heels to playful sneakers, every style was there to entice me. I walked away with a pair of stylish ballet flats that have been the perfect companions for exploring the city - comfortable, stylish, and, of course, utterly pink.

Then there was the fabulous Via Condotti, a street of iconic brands that rivalled even the most prestigious boulevards of London or Paris. Here, I discovered a boutique that seemed to be made just for me! Its storefront window was overflowing with vibrant colors, intricate designs, and the most gorgeous tutu-esque, twirling skirts. I bought a whimsical pink sequined scarf – it will be the perfect touch of glitz and glamour for any of my future ballet performances.

The most exquisite shopping experience came from the Campo de' Fiori market, a colourful tapestry of local crafts, delectable foods, and vibrant displays. I bought myself a handmade pink leather bag from a friendly artisan, a pair of exquisite earrings fashioned from silver and turquoise - perfect for adding a touch of glamour to my usual performance attire.

Every shopping adventure is a mini-performance for me - a way to express my inner ballerina through colour, style, and elegance. Rome's eclectic shopping scene provided the perfect platform for this.

Roman Feast - Ballet Fuel and Italian Delights

For a ballerina, fuelling those dancing legs with delicious food is an essential part of any trip, and Rome was an absolute delight for my tastebuds!

From fresh pasta piled high with flavourful sauces, to succulent pizzas bubbling with the freshest mozzarella, to creamy tiramisu so rich it melted in my mouth, every meal was a culinary adventure. I indulged in authentic Roman specialties like "cacio e pepe," a simple yet divine dish with pecorino cheese and black pepper, and “supplì," rice balls oozing with mozzarella, perfectly golden brown and bursting with flavour.

But even in my love for Italian cuisine, I always make sure to pack healthy snacks to keep my energy levels high. Think juicy berries, creamy yogurts, and energy bars packed with nuts and seeds – essential fuel for twirling and pirouettes, wherever my adventures take me!

Finding Magic in Rome - Christmas Spirit & Hidden Gems

Beyond the glamorous shopping sprees and the sumptuous feasts, the magic of Rome really lay in the spirit of the season and its hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

For a real taste of the local Christmas spirit, I wandered through the bustling streets of Piazza Navona, the heart of Rome’s Christmas market. The twinkling lights, the delicious scents of gingerbread and roasted chestnuts, the laughter of children playing, it all added up to an enchanting Christmas atmosphere that warmed my heart.

For those seeking a touch of historical wonder, I found solace in the charming and atmospheric neighbourhood of Trastevere. It’s a labyrinth of cobblestone alleys, enchanting little shops, and romantic restaurants lit by twinkling candlelight. This is where I found the most exquisite artisan shops, selling handcrafted leather goods, unique jewellery, and vibrant paintings - perfect souvenirs for any discerning ballerina like myself!

Ending on a Note of Ballet & Pink Tutu

Rome was truly an extraordinary ballet for me - every street I walked, every meal I enjoyed, every purchase I made, it all culminated in an elegant performance of colours, flavours, and memories.

I'm already longing for my next ballet adventure, my next #PinkTutu trip. But until then, my darling ballerina followers, may your December days be filled with glitz, glamour, and the sheer magic of ballet!

And don’t forget, in every step you take, every pirouette you perfect, every dream you chase - always embrace your inner ballerina!

Love,

Emma

(And don’t forget, the best way to embrace your inner ballerina is by wearing a pink tutu!)