Hello darlings!
It's Emma here, your pink tutu-wearing, ballet-obsessed blogger, writing to you from the charming town of Saint Albans. As you know, I’m a Derbyshire girl at heart, but my love for all things ballet means my travels take me to some fabulous places, and this week, I've found myself in Hertfordshire, home to a whole host of hidden gems, a vibrant ballet scene, and, of course, the iconic Verulamium Roman ruins.
I’ve been itching for an adventure for ages, and nothing quite sets my heart racing like hopping onto a steam train, a romantic journey that instantly transports you to a world of adventure, vintage glamour and breathtaking views. This journey was all about escaping the mundane, embracing a sense of whimsy and soaking up the quintessentially British charm of our railways. The steam chugging along the tracks, the scent of coal, and the vintage carriages made it feel like stepping back in time - and when the train pulled into Saint Albans, the charming architecture and vibrant market were the perfect way to step back into the present day!
After I checked into a perfectly pink hotel with an antique clock tower (a personal touch that made my day!), I wasted no time heading to the Saint Albans School of Dance, a stunning little gem I'd heard about from another ballet blogger. I was thrilled to find a ballet class that day, just my luck! The room, filled with antique mirrors and charming ballet barres, took me back to the graceful, feminine days of old, but the instructor was anything but dated! He was incredibly talented and encouraged all of us (even this seasoned ballerina!) to stretch beyond our limits. I learned a new pirouette variation, something that really got my inner twirler giggling. I left the studio feeling exhilarated and already eager for my next class.
But no trip to Saint Albans is complete without a visit to the Verulamium Roman Ruins. While the thought of history may not set everyone’s heart racing, I’m a firm believer that we can all find magic in any era! There’s something deeply romantic about these ancient ruins. I pictured Roman dancers swirling in a dusty courtyard, just as they did two millennia ago, their tunics flowing with movement, their faces painted with intricate patterns - much like a ballerina adorned in sparkling face gems today. It’s truly fascinating to see how beauty and expression remain constant through time, whether it's the grace of Roman dancing or the captivating elegance of classical ballet.
As evening descended, I made my way to a local restaurant with a cosy, dimly lit interior that exuded an almost theatrical ambiance, all velvety drapes and golden candlelight. The atmosphere felt perfectly aligned with my passion for performance. It’s one of those special restaurants where you feel like the main event, wrapped up in your own personal fairytale, all pink and sparkles, the way it should be! Their risotto with truffles was to die for. As I savored each delicious bite, I realised Saint Albans truly exceeded my expectations! It was a delicious concoction of charming history, bustling markets, graceful dancing and that quintessentially British, quaint, yet vibrant character that I love so much.
Later that evening, after indulging in some delectable chocolates and a glass of Prosecco in my hotel room, I couldn’t resist another trip to the railway station. The sight of the historic steam train still basking in the glow of the twilight was utterly captivating. For me, there’s nothing quite like witnessing the spectacle of a steam engine, and it serves as a potent reminder that a little magic can be found just around the corner, often nestled in places we least expect. I know, for example, that hidden among you all are aspiring ballerinas, people with a hidden love for movement and the art of ballet. So my challenge to you all? Put on your fanciest pair of pink shoes and embrace the pink tutu! You never know where that passion for dancing and all things beautiful will take you.
Until next time, my lovelies, remember, even if your dream is as big as the world, you can still start by dancing your way to Saint Albans!
Always remember to twirl with your hearts and let your dreams take flight.
Lots of love,
Emma
P.S. If you are reading this and feeling a bit of the ballet bug biting you, do join me at www.pink-tutu.com where I post new content everyday. Don’t be shy to share your stories too! Remember, let’s spread the pink tutu magic!
