Ciao Bella! This week, I'm channeling my inner Roman goddess (complete with a splash of pink, of course!), bringing you all the fabulousness of Rome in my latest Pink Tutu adventures. I'm taking a break from Derbyshire, leaving the Peak District views behind (though the rolling green hills do inspire quite the ballet moves!), for a whirlwind trip through this incredible city!
Rome! The heart of Italy, overflowing with history, culture, and gelato. What's not to love?! But for me, this trip is all about exploring the hidden gems – and the iconic must-sees, of course – through the lens of a tutu-clad ballerina. Think elegant piazzas transformed into impromptu dance floors, majestic cathedrals offering awe-inspiring acoustics for silent ballet performances (only in my mind, of course), and even cobbled streets turning into picturesque avenues for street ballet shows!
Arriving in Style!
As a seasoned train traveller (a quick look at my Instagram feed will show you the countless stations I've graced with my presence!), the journey from Derbyshire to Rome was a joy in itself. The European rail network, a haven for those who love to be on the go, smoothly whisked me through stunning countryside. I took advantage of the onboard WiFi to share live updates on my Instagram (check my stories!), showing off my favourite travel companions: my pink backpack, filled with ballet essentials, a vintage ballet book, and, naturally, a strategically placed pink tutu, ready to unleash some impromptu choreography at any moment!
The Colosseum – Where History Meets Dance
Arriving in Rome felt like stepping back in time. The history here just hits you in the face – in the best way possible! My first stop? The Colosseum. Picture this: The imposing structure, bathed in golden sunlight, whispering stories of gladiatorial battles. Imagine the gladiators – they were the original performance artists! As I explored the Colosseum, I found myself envisioning the echoes of crowds, the roar of the lion, and the thrilling moves of the fighters, all intermingling in my head with the music from Swan Lake and La Bayadère. I couldn't resist striking a few graceful poses on the ancient stones, adding my own pink tutu-infused spin to this timeless historical spectacle!
Trevi Fountain – A Wish for a Pink Tutu World
You can't go to Rome without throwing a coin into the Trevi Fountain, right?! The legend promises a return trip, and let's face it, who wouldn't want to come back to this magical city? As I tossed in my lucky coin, I made a wish – a wish for a world where everyone dances, and where a pink tutu is not just a costume, but a statement! Imagine, streets filled with people swirling in pink tutus, a ballet show in every corner, the joy of movement reaching every heart! That's my ultimate vision!
Fashion Frenzy!
Of course, no Rome adventure would be complete without some shopping, especially when you’re in the fashion capital of Italy! It was straight to the high street (and maybe a detour for some designer treats, just to indulge a little) where I had the time of my life discovering hidden vintage shops, trendy boutiques, and even a small costume store that stole my heart (you know I had to get a new tutu – there's no such thing as too many, right?).
I found the most gorgeous silk scarf adorned with the most delicate floral designs, which will be a lovely accessory for future performances – even more so now that it’s got an authentic Roman touch to it!
Dining Delight: Pizza, Pasta & Pinot Grigio
Rome is a feast for the senses! My inner foodie went into overdrive! I devoured plate after plate of the most delectable pasta, fresh seafood, and – of course – the world-famous pizza. I even tried a traditional "trapizzino", a tasty little pizza pocket (I had a whole collection of different toppings – so delicious!) And no Italian adventure is complete without a glass of chilled Pinot Grigio.
Finding Inspiration in Every Corner
Everywhere I went in Rome, there was an underlying energy that felt like a heartbeat, an undeniable connection with the past and the present. It reminded me of the powerful energy of a grand theatre during a captivating ballet performance!
It's this vibrant, alive feel that inspires me in my own dancing – the stories whispered on the wind, the echoes of voices from long ago, the captivating drama unfolding in the heart of the city, all meld into a perfect melody, a magical composition that makes my heart dance.
Street Performances: From Bustling Markets to Quiet Courtyards
Rome’s beauty lies in the small moments: a street performer's melody, the gentle chime of church bells, the clatter of carts in the bustling markets, the chatter of families sharing a meal under the warm sun, the rhythmic click-clack of heels as chic locals parade past. All these form an incredible symphony of life.
The cobbled streets here beckon for some impromptu ballet! And in a perfect example of my "ballet-anywhere" attitude, I just had to sneak in a performance at the Borghese Gallery's serene courtyards! With the statues gazing on, I danced to the internal symphony in my head, my pink tutu shimmering like a ray of sunshine on the ancient marble, my pirouettes a blur against the historical backdrop! It's moments like these, those spontaneous bursts of creative energy, that I truly cherish!
Pink Tutu in the Pantheon!
A highlight of the trip? The Pantheon. It's one of those places that leaves you breathless! Imagine this: The largest unreinforced concrete dome ever constructed, a masterpiece of architecture! Stepping inside, bathed in the warm light filtering through the central oculus, I was simply transported. I spent some time, captivated, soaking up the majesty of the space, envisioning a graceful dance performance in the heart of this architectural marvel. I imagined delicate pointe shoes silently gliding across the polished marble floor, the graceful arc of a jump echoing in the domed space.
Don’t forget, Rome’s bursting with hidden gems! Let’s talk hidden gem alert: Trastevere. The bohemian district, a maze of cobbled streets with traditional trattorias and charming artisan workshops. As I ambled along, admiring the colorful facades and quirky shops, a sweet melody filled the air. I peeked through an open door and there, in a hidden courtyard, a group of locals gathered around a street musician, their hands clapping in rhythm with the music, faces full of joy and contentment.
Lasting Impressions of Rome
Leaving Rome was a bittersweet moment – a familiar ache of farewell intertwined with a spark of anticipation for future explorations! A Roman sunset, vibrant hues painting the sky in breathtaking shades of pink and orange – an apt finale to my dance-filled journey through the city. Rome has that incredible ability to capture your heart. It's a city that stays with you long after you've said goodbye, echoing in your dreams, whispering in the soft breeze that caresses your face back in your own Derbyshire home.
As I reflect on this adventure, I'm filled with gratitude for the beauty of Rome and the extraordinary people who have graced me with their kindness and hospitality! And yes, there will be a return trip – a future Pink Tutu pilgrimage, where I'll dance through the timeless streets and experience all the wonders this magnificent city has to offer.
See you next week for a new adventure! And remember, pink tutus are always welcome in every corner of the world! Ciao, for now!
Stay tuned! Be sure to catch the next instalment of my pink tutu adventures right here every Wednesday at www.pink-tutu.com.
Special Note: On this date (June 18, 2025), there are numerous cultural events and activities to enjoy in Rome. Perhaps you can see a traditional Italian dance performance at a local piazza or explore a captivating ballet exhibition at the Museo Nazionale del Teatro.
And, if you're ever in Rome and happen to see a girl twirling in a pink tutu – just know that it’s probably me, living my best ballet-infused life, inviting you to join the fun!
