#PinkTutuRome Wednesday 2024-01-10 exploring Rome Italy

Ciao, darlings! It’s Emma, your pink-tutu-clad ballerina extraordinaire, landing in the heart of Rome, Italy! As I type this, my sparkly pink tutu is shimmering in the glow of a gorgeous Italian sunset, and I just can't help but feel a little giddy. I've been dreaming of visiting the Eternal City ever since I was a little girl, and it's safe to say, it's even more magnificent in person!

This week, the air has been alive with the sounds of laughter, the aroma of fresh pizza and pasta, and the constant clink of espresso cups - a symphony of Italy! And, of course, I'm savouring every moment, soaking up the magic of Rome in my most vibrant, most-fabulous pink tutu, hoping to bring a bit of pink sparkle to every corner of this incredible city!

This week's Pink Tutu adventure started with a thrilling train ride through the countryside. Let me tell you, there's something utterly magical about cruising through a new landscape with your ballet shoes tucked in your pink-tutu-adorned suitcase, the promise of adventure dancing in your heart.

I've got to say, it was a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. It’s been a whirlwind couple of weeks with ballet performances in Derby, Chesterfield, and Sheffield! And before that, the Christmas season was busy, which is always such a joy – getting the chance to share my passion for dance with everyone and bring a touch of pink magic to Christmas shows across the Midlands. But Rome… oh Rome, was just the respite I needed!

The moment the train pulled into Roma Termini station, the air crackled with an electric energy, an irresistible invitation to embrace the chaos and magic that Rome offers. And as I walked through the station, all dressed in pink (because a girl never misses an opportunity to spread the pink tutu love!), I knew that my Roman adventure was about to become an unforgettable story!

Rome truly is a feast for the senses, from the stunning architecture and art to the most amazing food I’ve ever tasted! You simply have to try the fresh pasta dishes and the pizzas – I can’t tell you how many plates of creamy carbonara and delicate cacio e pepe I have inhaled this week! They make you forget the rules about counting calories, but then, let's be honest, when you’re in Rome, the rule is to enjoy every delectable bite!

Then, of course, there's the fashion scene. I mean, I was not expecting the fabulous array of haute couture and high street fashion here in Rome! I'm particularly taken with the way the locals effortlessly mix vintage with modern trends. So much of it has inspired me for future blog posts – oh the ideas are flowing!

One of the highlights of my week was attending a breathtaking flamenco performance at Teatro Argentina. The dancers' passion, their graceful movements, their rhythmic footwork – it was truly awe-inspiring! It was the perfect blend of drama, elegance, and sheer fiery passion. I must admit, the temptation to whip out my own pink tutu for an impromptu performance was strong, but I refrained – mostly! Let’s just say the urge to twirl is strong here in Rome!

We visited the Colosseum - one of the most magnificent monuments I’ve ever seen. The history, the sheer scale of it - you just feel a sense of awe walking through these ancient ruins. It was truly amazing to witness such a symbol of a bygone era! We also got to wander the beautiful Forum of Caesar, which has left me totally spellbound. It’s like walking through the pages of history!

There was time, too, for a trip to the beautiful Trevi Fountain. And the water fountains… oh, the water fountains! They’re scattered throughout the city, each one like a miniature masterpiece! Of course, I followed the age-old tradition of tossing in a coin (while wearing my trusty pink tutu, of course!), so I can guarantee a trip back to this extraordinary city very soon!

And then, of course, no visit to Rome is complete without a stroll along the romantic Spanish Steps! You simply have to experience the stunning view from the top! Oh, and don’t even get me started on the gelatos – I sampled every flavour under the Italian sun! From classic hazelnut to a fruity mango sorbet – every bite is pure bliss!

Of course, I wouldn't be true to my pink-tutu-clad self if I didn't try to share the pink tutu magic wherever I went! As I wandered around the beautiful Piazza Navona, with its captivating mix of Renaissance architecture, art, and bustling street vendors, I simply had to twirl! After all, what better way to share a little bit of joy and cheer than by unleashing my inner ballerina?

There were so many surprised looks and even a few happy cheers! It’s really a true delight to watch children’s faces light up as you show them a twirl. I truly believe there’s nothing that says ‘live life to the fullest’ than by putting on a sparkly tutu, and that was the theme of my Rome trip! And it’s safe to say, I left a little bit of pink magic wherever I went!

For those who know me, they’ll know I never pass up the chance to share my love of ballet! While I’ve been touring Rome, I discovered an incredible ballet class held at a hidden gem of a studio in the city centre. This small class of dedicated dancers truly showed me how dance is an universal language!

It's so heartwarming to see how people of all ages and backgrounds come together to express themselves through the magic of movement. For a little while, we were all united in our shared passion for dance. The energy was fantastic, the atmosphere infectious, and we all left with huge smiles on our faces!

I am still living on that post-ballet-class high, But there's so much more to explore in Rome. My heart tells me there are even more adventures waiting to be discovered here! And with my Pink Tutu pack always by my side, I know this trip won't be my last! I'm dreaming about all the delicious food I’ll be trying next, all the beautiful monuments I'll be exploring, all the incredible art and fashion I'll be soaking up!

And who knows, perhaps I'll even discover a hidden ballet school in the city that might become a place I’d love to share with you all. In the meantime, stay tuned next week to my next Pink Tutu post. I’ll be bringing you the very best of all that Rome has to offer, from a foodie's perspective, a fashionista’s perspective, and of course, through the twirling lens of my very pink tutu.

So, until then, ciao for now! Stay sparkly, darlings, and keep twirling your way to your own happy ending!