Hello my gorgeous ballet bunnies! It's Emma here, and I'm bursting with excitement to share my latest adventure with you - a trip to Aberdeen! Now, I know what you're thinking - Aberdeen? Not exactly the first place that springs to mind for a glamorous ballerina, is it? But hold your horses (pun intended, as you'll see in a minute!) Aberdeen was absolutely divine and the perfect place to channel my inner ballerina in a gorgeous shade of pink, of course.
Now, I must confess, my journey there was half the fun. Leaving Derbyshire, I ditched the usual car for a glorious train journey through the English countryside. There's something so romantic about travelling by train - the gentle sway, the whizzing past charming villages, the exciting prospect of a new destination. I was even lucky enough to have a window seat for most of the journey, which is my favourite view as a ballerina, you see! I could picture myself twirling and leaping through those rolling green hills like a whimsical ballet dancer, just missing the passing scenery by a whisker.
And you know, I’m so grateful for those little snippets of the everyday life we sometimes miss in the fast lane! That little quiet space to watch the world go by - it gives me a real sense of connection, like I’m part of a bigger story. I know, I know, I’m a dreamer!
Then, I finally arrived at my fabulous hotel in Aberdeen, and I’ll let you in on a little secret - a real secret - the staff helped me out with something super special! They let me leave my bright pink tutu hanging outside the door on my arrival day because I wanted to be ready to hit the streets, pink and proud, the second I woke up! It’s like I said - I love spreading that tutu love wherever I go!
The moment I stepped outside the hotel, I could already feel the energy of Aberdeen. The streets were abuzz with life, a beautiful mix of historic architecture, cobbled streets, and modern boutiques. The crisp Scottish air was so refreshing, I had to pause at one of the harbourside cafes and take in the salty tang. I couldn’t resist snapping some shots of the harbour – with the backdrop of Aberdeen’s majestic red granite buildings and a sparkling turquoise sky! You know I love a scenic shot in my favourite tutu!
I’d been dying to explore Aberdeen’s maritime heritage. And after an epic breakfast (hello, full Scottish breakfast - haggis anyone?) I started my day by visiting the historic fishing boats at the harbour. I have to admit - I am completely enchanted by everything to do with the ocean. I love how it flows, how it ebbs and flows - and I’m actually fascinated by the wildlife! Sea birds, whales, seals… you name it, I’ll be there in a tutu!
Speaking of wildlife - guess who had a truly extraordinary encounter on my afternoon exploration? Me! I came across this beautiful family of red squirrels in a park! The cutest little furballs with massive, bright eyes. It was magical. They were bouncing up and down the trees with the energy of my ballet class, completely unconcerned by the passing city folk! As if they were ballet stars on stage themselves, just playing their natural role - utterly captivating! It felt like a little ballet scene played out on a grand natural stage! I almost started taking notes, to put it in a ballet.
Aberdeen's art scene is also something else. I discovered an exquisite little independent gallery just off the main street, bursting with unique, hand-painted works. One piece caught my eye in particular: a beautiful abstract piece depicting a flurry of colours, swirling like a tutu. My inner artist, you know the one that always wanted to be a painter, was calling out to me!
But the real highlight of my trip was the ballet, naturally! And I was completely blown away by Aberdeen's stunning Music Hall - it's such a gorgeous venue with the most breathtaking acoustics! The ballet company performing that night was breathtaking. It was an entirely new production to me, telling the story of a ballerina's journey through life - love, loss, strength, resilience – everything! The choreography was so beautifully nuanced, I could feel every emotion like my very own emotions in my own ballet performances! There were moments where the dancers held themselves poised, waiting on stage - just like in ballet class before the start of the piece. It brought tears to my eyes at one point!
Aberdeen, you really have captured my heart. With its breathtaking scenery, rich history, vibrant arts scene, and delightful dance opportunities - what's not to love? And you know what? I'm planning a little secret surprise for the next time I visit - I want to share my love of ballet with Aberdeen’s residents! A surprise flash mob with a pink-tutu twist, what do you think?! That’s the ballet bunny in me - sharing that love and spreading that joy with the world - it’s all about sharing, remember! I might even arrange a pink-tutu themed masterclass for budding ballerinas and, of course, get a special ‘pink-tutu’ photoshoot session with the iconic Aberdeen harbour and skyline as the perfect backdrop. Can you just imagine!
As I sit here on the train home, I feel so invigorated and filled with new inspiration. I've learnt a lot from my trip - the beauty of simplicity, the power of connection, and the magic of embracing new experiences. Aberdeen, you've given me the inspiration I need for the next tutu-licious blog post. Stay tuned, darlings, as I reveal a new pink-tutu-themed fashion edit.
Until next time!
Yours in ballet and sunshine,
Emma xx
