Ciao Bella! ? It's Wednesday, which means it's time for another Pink Tutu adventure, and this week I'm whisking you all off to the stunning city of Rome, Italy! I know, I know, what's a ballet dancer doing in Rome? Well, my darling readers, this pink tutu loves a good adventure, and there's nowhere better to get lost in history, culture, and of course, some delicious food than the Eternal City.
This week, I've traded my dancing shoes for trusty walking boots - although, let's be honest, my trusty walking boots still match my pink tutu perfectly. Rome is a city built for exploring on foot, its charming cobbled streets and hidden squares practically begging to be discovered.
This journey started, as always, on a train, a journey that saw me pass through stunning countryside and picturesque towns. Nothing beats the joy of being aboard a train, a mobile palace for dreamers and adventurers! The rhythmic rumble of the wheels is music to my ears and there’s no better way to immerse yourself in a new country than watching its landscapes whizz past your window.
Rome itself, though, is a different kind of magic. The first thing that hits you is the scent, a delicious blend of freshly baked bread, espresso, and…well, a whole lot of other delightful smells I haven’t yet figured out. Then comes the sound, the chatter of the locals, the hum of motorbikes and the clatter of horse-drawn carriages – all blending together in a symphony of Italian life.
This week has been a whirlwind of sightseeing, indulging in all things pink and beautiful, and of course, making sure every Roman knows the joy of a pink tutu. From the iconic Colosseum, which feels like a glimpse into ancient history, to the Trevi Fountain, where I stood, bathed in its golden glow and whispering a secret wish to be able to perform ballet in every corner of the world (one pink tutu at a time, of course), Rome has captured my heart.
Speaking of pink and beautiful, let's talk fashion! I've been embracing the vibrant, bold spirit of Roman fashion and adding my own pink flair, naturally. This week I've spotted some absolutely divine shoes with floral details, beautiful scarves in rich fabrics, and of course, I found a local market that had an abundance of sparkly earrings. Rome knows how to do fabulous! I also, of course, snagged a new tutu that has been my companion during these adventures - it's a vibrant shade of fuschia and it’s perfect for the Italian sunshine!
On my journey I visited the Ballerina’s Atelier, a quaint, charming shop nestled amongst the bustling cobblestone streets, where they hand-make ballet shoes in the most vibrant and luxurious colours imaginable. I found the perfect pair - blush pink, naturally – that are the perfect mix of delicate and sturdy. Let's just say I'm already planning a grand ballet performance in Rome's breathtaking Piazza Navona!
As a ballet dancer, one of the highlights of my Roman adventure has been watching a performance at the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma. I saw The Sleeping Beauty, a timeless classic that captivated the entire audience. It was stunning, the costumes, the sets, and of course, the dancers! It truly was a dream come true, and reminded me how much I love my profession and how incredibly important ballet is to me. It's a feeling that I’m hoping to bring to every corner of the world, one pink tutu at a time!
Rome has so much to offer: beautiful architecture, history that practically oozes out of every building, and an energy that’s contagious. I even saw a beautiful street performance near the Pantheon, a graceful street ballerina twirling amidst the bustle of the crowd. I’d bet my pink tutu she would love a trip to Derbyshire.
One of my absolute favourite spots so far has to be the Baths of Caracalla, ancient Roman ruins transformed into a stunning outdoor theatre for ballet performances. Just imagine, dancing beneath the stars, against the backdrop of ancient history. Talk about a romantic setting for an enchanting evening! I’ll be returning with my pink tutu to this beautiful setting again for sure.
However, it's not all glamour and pink tutus! One of the best things about Rome, I think, is the food. From the simplest pizza, with its chewy crust and tangy tomato sauce, to the most decadent gelato, each bite is a little piece of heaven.
Today is a special day! Today I am heading to the Vatican! This place holds an enormous place in history, faith and art, so I’ll be sure to bring you lots of photographs, and hopefully some amazing tales to share with you next week!
Oh, I almost forgot to tell you about the cutest little shop in Trastevere! It’s called Dolce Vita - perfect for my love of the sweet life - and it is stuffed with colourful and quirky souvenirs that remind me of Italy. I picked up some amazing miniature ceramic sculptures and even found a stunning silver necklace with a pink miniature ballerina figurine. My friends in Derbyshire are going to be thrilled with these treasures!
So, that's a little glimpse into my Roman adventures, my darlings! Next week I’ll be back with my Vatican musings. Until then, remember, wherever you are in the world, don’t be afraid to embrace your inner ballerina, don a pink tutu, and take on the world with style, grace, and a whole lot of pink!
Stay beautiful and keep twirling,
Emma x www.pink-tutu.com
