Ciao, darlings! It's Emma from the Pink Tutu blog, back from the glorious Eternal City, Rome, with my heart filled with sunshine, gelato, and the pinkest of pink memories!
This week's post, like a delicate pirouette, whisks you straight into the heart of my Roman adventure. Picture it: the warm Italian air whispering tales of emperors and gladiators, cobbled streets painted with golden sunlight, and of course, me, your resident pink tutu ambassador, twirling through it all with a grin as bright as the Roman sun!
You know how much I love a good train journey. This trip, with its comfortable carriage and the rolling green landscape of northern Italy whizzing past, was simply delightful! As the Italian countryside unfolded, a sense of adventure started to fizz inside me, a feeling almost as sweet as the creamy latte I sipped from my reusable cup.
Rome greeted me with a hug of sunshine and a symphony of city noises. The familiar whiff of freshly baked bread, the clatter of scooters, the melodic strains of street musicians… it was sensory overload, and I wouldn’t have had it any other way! My first order of business? Find a place to showcase my new pink tutu – a delicate tulle confection, adorned with hand-painted pink roses, a masterpiece by a Derbyshire craftswoman. After a whirlwind check-in at a charming boutique hotel with a balcony overlooking a quiet piazza, I hit the streets with a mischievous glint in my eye.
Ballet Beneath the ColosseumRome is overflowing with culture, history, and of course, spectacular venues! So, it’s no surprise that my first stop was the magnificent Colosseum. Imagine my delight when I discovered that a ballet performance was being held right there! Under the star-studded sky, with the moon illuminating the majestic arches of this ancient wonder, the ballet dancers moved with such grace and artistry that I felt like I was part of something magical. It was almost like stepping back in time, experiencing a fusion of history and art, of past and present. The feeling of standing amongst those historical ruins, with a troupe of talented ballerinas spinning and leaping with such elegant skill, is something I'll treasure forever.
Later that evening, I enjoyed a divine plate of pasta – a delicate ballet of flavours, a creamy carbonara with just the right amount of Parmesan cheese. I know, I know, you’d think I’d be on a perpetual gelato diet in Rome, and maybe I was, but a good pasta dish is essential, wouldn't you agree?
The Roman Piazza – A Fashion ParadeThe next day was dedicated to fashion. Every corner of Rome felt like a grand runway – and I certainly embraced the spirit! The elegant women of Rome, effortlessly chic in flowing fabrics and graceful scarves, inspired me. The men, sharp in their tailored suits, with a touch of playful nonchalance, added to the mix. But you know me, I couldn't resist injecting a touch of Pink Tutu magic! As I strolled through the charming streets of Trastevere, the sunlight bouncing off the colourful buildings, I took a spontaneous pirouette – in my beautiful pink tutu, of course! A collective gasp went through the nearby cafe patrons. They were so surprised, yet enthralled. This brought such joy to my heart, knowing I’m sharing my love of the pink tutu and the joy of dance. Everyone around me, for that brief moment, shared a sense of wonder.
Rome is a city of art. The Galleria Borghese, the Capitoline Museums, even the city streets – it all oozed beauty and inspiration. One can feel the heartbeat of artistic history, it pulsates within the ancient walls. Every corner unveils another treasure - statues and frescoes of ancient deities, a testament to the captivating human spirit, and, oh, how I love being enveloped by the charm of history and the embrace of ancient art!
Shopping and SparkleRome is also a haven for fashion lovers, from designer boutiques to hidden treasure troves bursting with unique, hand-crafted pieces. Of course, I couldn't resist venturing into these enchanted fashion sanctuaries. A delicate silver necklace, perfect for a dancer like me, found its way into my purse, and a playful, pastel-pink clutch – just the right size for a ballerina's essentials - joined its ranks.
Later, in a hidden alleyway, I discovered a little shop overflowing with beautiful shoes! And who can resist a good shoe? It was pure magic! In between trying on a bewitching pair of ballet flats, I met a charming local designer who showed me his incredible line of handmade tutus – a stunning symphony of silks and satins, colours as vivid as the flowers on the Ponte Sant’Angelo. It was the most fabulous conversation about the art of ballet, fashion, and of course, the enduring charm of a perfect pink tutu. I’ll be back to visit this hidden gem, you can bet your ballerina slippers on it!
Back in England – With a New SparkleRome has a magical quality. It's a city of history and beauty, of art and style, where past and present meet, and a pink tutu finds its perfect stage. Every corner of the city whispers stories, from the grandeur of the Colosseum to the charm of a tiny artisan shop nestled in a hidden alley. And the locals, with their warmth and infectious energy, embrace life with such vibrance.
Back in Derbyshire, back in the green pastures of my English home, my Rome journey has been re-spun in my mind. It’s a journey I’ll keep revisiting, not just for the beautiful buildings and incredible sights but for the people who embraced me, the fashion that inspired me, and the heart-filling experience that left a pink sparkle on my soul. I'll be adding some touches of Roman inspiration to my dance routine, trust me! Until next week, darlings, may your lives be filled with twirling joy and pink tutu magic! Remember to wear your pink tutu this week, it’s all about spreading joy! Ciao bella!
