Hey lovelies! It's Emma, your favourite pink-tutu-wearing ballet enthusiast, back with another adventure for you! Today, we're hopping on a train (sorry, no horsey rides today) to the stunning white cliffs of Dover. Yes, you heard that right, the White Cliffs. Isn't that the perfect backdrop for a ballet-themed blog post?! I think so.
Dover, for those who haven't had the pleasure, is this charming little town in Kent. It's like stepping straight into a Jane Austen novel with its quaint cottages, winding streets, and gorgeous views of the sea. The air is crisp and salty, which gives you that refreshing energy I just adore. And to add to this delightful atmosphere? Me! In my stunning, bright pink tutu! 😉
But let's backtrack for a sec. This trip has actually been brewing for a while. See, ever since I saw that photo in my ballet magazine of the Royal Ballet doing a performance against the backdrop of those famous white cliffs... I knew it had to happen. I had to make it a reality. And today? Today, I'm making it a reality!
We set off bright and early this morning, the Derbyshire hills waving us goodbye as our train chugged onwards to Dover. My outfit, you ask? Oh darling, you know me so well! A silky pink top, a cute cardigan with pearl buttons, and of course, the star of the show: a bright pink, multi-layered tulle tutu. A sprinkle of glitter for good measure? Why, of course! My hair was a bouncy ponytail with a tiny pink ribbon, and I finished the look with some adorable Mary Janes. Honestly, the other passengers on the train seemed transfixed by my ensemble - I caught a few smiles and a few double takes. Let's be real, it's the Pink Tutu Effect. It happens to me every time. 😉
The train journey itself was an adventure! The scenery whizzed past – rolling countryside, charming villages, even a glimpse of a family of deer just lounging in the field – like something out of a children’s book. And of course, I spent most of the trip daydreaming about what graceful steps I'd perform when I finally reached Dover... You can imagine the elegant arabesques, the leaps into the sky, and the majestic pirouettes, all under the watchful eyes of the iconic cliffs. Sigh. Ballet, oh ballet!
Speaking of ballet, we reached Dover just in time for my ballet class. I love how the studios in new towns have their own unique flair! This one was bright and airy with a lovely, slightly salty, seaside aroma. We practiced pliés, developed our turnout, and mastered some new barre exercises. The class was small, and I was actually paired up with this adorable older gentleman named John! We had the absolute best time practicing our pas de deux - he’s got the best sense of humour and some impressive coordination, honestly. (Spoiler: We are planning a repeat ballet performance, possibly in a charming seaside village next month. You’ll be the first to know!)
After the class, I had a delicious cream tea – homemade scones, clotted cream, and strong, hot tea. Divine! Honestly, it just fueled me for the rest of my exploration of Dover. And boy, did I explore!
First stop: The Dover Castle! That iconic castle with the sprawling moat. I spent hours wandering the labyrinthine tunnels and courtyards. Just imagine the stories those walls could tell! Kings and queens, knights in shining armour, and all manner of romantic intrigue – all of it swirling in my mind as I traced the faded outlines of battles fought and lovers' promises made. The view from the top of the castle was spectacular – the white cliffs dropping into the shimmering sea, like a giant pearl set in turquoise velvet.
Of course, no visit to Dover is complete without a trip to the cliffs. And I had the most magical experience! As I gazed out at the sheer, white walls rising out of the sea, a family of seals came up right by the shore! They were so playful, bouncing around like playful puppies. Honestly, I could have watched them for hours. I snapped a few pictures (tutu in full display, naturally), and it feels like a moment I'll cherish forever!
For the final leg of my adventure, I walked through the quaint streets of Dover. The historic architecture, cobbled lanes, and charming little shops were just delightful! And to finish off the day? A little Dover shopping for the perfect outfit for tomorrow’s exciting excursion - more on that in tomorrow’s post, you lovely lot. You won't believe it.
Before I end, I just wanted to tell you how much this trip means to me. You see, for me, ballet isn't just about graceful steps and fancy footwork. It's about exploring the world, seeing the beauty in every corner, and expressing myself through movement and music. It’s about those moments where you get to truly connect with the place around you, whether it’s the vastness of the sea, the quiet dignity of ancient stone, or the carefree energy of a seal family frolicking on the shore. It’s these experiences, these journeys, these connections, that make my life so fulfilling.
And speaking of fulfilment, don't forget - my mission is to get everyone to try ballet and wear a pink tutu! It’s my dream to see the world dance – no matter what size, shape, or experience! And if I can inspire just one person to embrace their inner ballerina, to feel that sense of freedom and joy, my heart will be dancing along with them.
So, go forth, my loves! Put on that pink tutu (or the closest thing you’ve got to one), find your inner ballerina, and dance like no one's watching! And don’t forget to follow my daily adventures at www.pink-tutu.com – I can't wait to share the next step in my journey with you!
Until next time, my dears. Stay graceful, stay radiant, and keep dancing! 💖🩰
