Hello my lovelies!
It’s Emma here, your resident pink tutu enthusiast, reporting live from Belfast, Northern Ireland. Let me tell you, this city is as vibrant and captivating as a triple pirouette! My trip was packed with ballet bliss, enchanting sights, and – naturally – plenty of pink tutu moments!
My journey began, as it often does, in a flurry of sequins and tulle. I hopped aboard the train in my favourite pale pink tutu, the one with the cascading layers and the shimmering sparkles. It’s my lucky charm for adventure! It’s a bit of a feat to squeeze into a carriage, especially when your tutu's wings are practically brushing the roof, but the other passengers, bless them, were lovely and even had some cheeky smiles. (Maybe I inspire some people to try out their own pink tutu!)
After a delightful journey, dotted with the rolling emerald hills and quaint villages, I finally reached Belfast. The city's charming energy was instantly contagious, and I couldn’t wait to explore!
Now, no trip to Belfast is complete without a visit to the magnificent Grand Opera House, a Victorian masterpiece adorned with stunning mosaics. I stood outside, bathed in the late afternoon sunshine, just letting it all soak in. It truly was a beautiful sight. It’s said that even ghosts from Belfast’s illustrious past haunt the theatre, giving it a wonderfully spooky ambiance that I simply loved! The energy, both historic and theatrical, is electrifying, making it the perfect place to indulge in the pure joy of ballet!
Speaking of joy, I spent the rest of the evening dancing my heart out at a private ballet class held within the heart of the Grand Opera House itself. It was such a unique experience, stepping onto the stage where countless legends have performed before me, each step echoing the grace of history. The space was intimate, and our class felt like a little world of swirling skirts, poised pirouettes and delicate tendus. We laughed, we learned, and most importantly, we celebrated the joy of movement!
For my dinner, I sampled Belfast’s finest fare - a mouth-watering dish of cod with local samphire and a delightful side of mash, a perfect combination of earthy and fresh flavours. I couldn’t resist a side order of homemade apple crumble for dessert! It was a taste of home but with a distinctly Belfast twist.
But it wasn’t all about food and fancy footwork. I also spent some time exploring Belfast's captivating street art scene. One of the most inspiring murals I found was painted on a street corner with vibrant colours showcasing the beauty of local nature. It felt almost as vibrant as my favourite pink tutu, full of energy, passion and the strength of beauty.
And of course, what trip to Belfast would be complete without a visit to the magnificent Belfast Botanic Gardens? It’s a true paradise in the city, a place of peace and wonder. As I walked along the perfectly manicured paths, the air filled with the scent of blooming flowers, I felt so much tranquility that it truly inspired my soul. I watched children scamper among the vibrant blooms, mesmerised by the wonder of nature. It made me think, what if they all had pink tutus? Maybe that's what they needed to discover the beauty in their world...
Speaking of beauty, there's this amazing cafe in Belfast, "The Pink Flamingo," just off Donegall Place. Now, anyone who knows me knows I'm a huge flamingo enthusiast (especially those in pink!) So, I couldn’t resist dropping in and savoring their delicious cake, all while basking in the cheerful, whimsical ambience.
Before I departed, I ventured out to one of Belfast’s most iconic landmarks: the iconic Albert Clock. Standing majestically at the top of Donegall Place, it truly was a remarkable spectacle! A vision of elegance and historical significance. With its beautiful Victorian-style design, it’s a stark contrast to my own pink tutu but, somehow, it felt wonderfully complimentary.
I hopped on the train back home, filled with a wealth of experiences that I'll forever treasure. Belfast has a magical allure, a pulsating energy that stays with you long after you leave. I left a little bit of pink glitter and a whole lot of joy in my wake!
As I gaze upon my packed suitcases, I know that Belfast has a special place in my heart. Maybe one day I’ll even inspire a new generation of ballet dancers here, and they will have their own pink tutus. They could wear it to school, to a coffee shop, or to visit the majestic Albert Clock. They might even dance under it. Now, that would be a true masterpiece!
Until next time, keep dancing and always, always wear pink!
Love, Emma
xx
