Buongiorno, my darling tutu-tastic readers! It's your favourite pink-loving ballerina, Emma, back from the magical city of Rome. This week I'm bringing you all the deliciousness of the Eternal City, sprinkled with a generous helping of my signature pink tulle!
This is my 1490th blog post (can you believe it?!) and this week I'm taking you on a whirl through Rome, a city that has captured my heart in a way I haven't felt since...well, maybe since that amazing ballet tour in Paris! But more about that later.
Rome, Sweet Rome
I arrived in Rome on Friday, having made the journey via train, which, let's be honest, is always the most fabulous way to travel. You've got ample space to show off your outfit and admire the scenery - I know, I know, I shouldn't be so biased! 😉 Anyway, I managed to snag a window seat and the Italian countryside flew by in a flurry of rolling hills, vineyards and charming little villages. A girl can dream about what life might be like there, eh?
Stepping off the train and onto the platform of Termini station was like entering a whole other world. The air hummed with excitement, and everyone seemed to have this joie de vivre I just couldn't get enough of! Even the pigeons looked stylish!
I'd booked a beautiful apartment near the Spanish Steps, a stone's throw from some of Rome's most iconic sights. Stepping inside, I was greeted with a balcony overlooking a bustling cobblestone street. This view was definitely calling for a glass of prosecco and some pink tutu appreciation! (Of course.)
The Coliseum: A Step Back in Time
Saturday saw me strolling through the vibrant streets of Rome towards the Colosseum. It was HUGE! Seriously, just stepping onto those ancient stones sent a shiver down my spine. The whole experience was truly breathtaking, transporting me back to a time of gladiators, emperors, and an empire that stretched across the known world. You just can't help but be mesmerised by the sheer size and magnificence of it all.
Tutus and Trevi Fountains
Sunday was a day dedicated to some serious sight-seeing, with a little pink-tutu twist! It wouldn't be a Pink Tutu Rome adventure without a visit to the Trevi Fountain, a must-see for any Roman explorer. It was so grand, so opulent - truly fitting for a pink tutu! I even struck a few poses for a few photoshoots – naturally, with my trusty tutu twirling in the breeze. It was definitely one of the highlights of my trip.
Of course, what’s a ballerina's weekend in Rome without a visit to Teatro dell'Opera di Roma (Rome Opera House)? I managed to score some tickets for La Bohème, and my goodness, the entire experience was phenomenal. The singers were simply breathtaking, their voices soared over the entire theatre with such passion. I felt myself transported to 19th century Paris, immersed in the drama, the romance, the tragedy, and, of course, the beautiful music.
And, can you believe it, but the Rome ballet company actually have a pink tutu scene! I know, I couldn’t have planned this any better, even if I tried! The tutu’s are bright pink, they were not as lovely as my favourite bright pink ones back at home, but it was lovely to see.
The Flavours of Italy
My time in Rome was not just about sightseeing and twirling in my tutu. I also got to indulge in all the delicious food the city has to offer. Pasta, pizza, gelato… it was truly an explosion of flavours. My favourite, by far, had to be a local bakery right by my apartment - they had the most amazing pastries, each one a work of art. It was as if the pastry chefs themselves had a little bit of the Italian Renaissance in them!
And then there were the markets! Imagine wandering through the stalls bursting with fresh fruit, juicy tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and locally produced cheese. You could just feel the energy and the history oozing out of every single ingredient! Every dish was like a celebration of taste and tradition.
A Pink Tutu Revelation
One of my most surprising discoveries in Rome was a little boutique near the Piazza Navona. Tucked away in a hidden corner, it felt like stepping into a world of colour and beauty, just begging for some pink tutu action! You wouldn't believe it, but there was a whole section dedicated to tutus – yes, TUTUS! Some had sparkly sequins, others were crafted from the most exquisite lace, and one was even pink! And, to make it even better, there was even a stunning pink ballet outfit - complete with a beautiful, full pink tutu! (And let's just say it did not make it back to Derbyshire with me.)
A Last Tango
As the week drew to a close, I knew I had to make one last pilgrimage, a ballet pilgrimage that is, to Teatro dell’Opera. Standing there, looking at the theatre's magnificent facade, I knew I would be forever bound to this place. I closed my eyes and pictured a pink tutu swirling on stage, feeling the energy of the crowd. Even though it wasn't actually my performance this time, I knew, I knew that I'd be back with my very own show sometime soon!
Ciao, Bella Roma!
So there you have it, my dears! Rome, in all its glory, sprinkled with a dash of my favourite pink tutu! This incredible city has definitely been a highlight for me. You see, every place I visit always brings something new to my life. A new inspiration for a costume. A new idea for a ballet routine. This trip, Rome, you’ve left me craving pasta, Prosecco, and, of course, more beautiful, romantic pink tutus!
I'll be back soon with another travel adventure, filled with beautiful stories and, of course, lots and lots of pink tutus! But until then, make sure you're subscribed to my website at www.pink-tutu.com for all the latest!
Lots of love and tutu hugs,
Emma xx
