Oh my darling readers,
How are you all today? The snow is falling here in Derbyshire, so I'm nestled in by the fire with a big mug of hot chocolate, ready to share my latest adventure with you! It's all thanks to a most peculiar postcard I received a few weeks ago, from the most charming man with a rather dashing handlebar moustache - he's a bit of a regular at the ballet, and I often spot him in the front row, giving the performers a standing ovation after each show.
He invited me to Newtownards in Northern Ireland. Now, I had never heard of it before, but when I looked it up on the map, I thought "why not?" I'm not one to shy away from an adventure, especially when it involves travelling by train - a long journey, yes, but all the more romantic for it! And so I found myself stepping off the train at Newtownards station, wrapped in a stunning scarlet coat over my favourite tulle tutu - a fluffy, cloud-like vision of pale pink, just for a dash of colour amidst the dreary winter sky.
Now, Newtownards turned out to be a hidden gem! You can almost feel the history seep into your bones, wandering down narrow cobblestone streets past quirky little shops with names like "The Yarn Whisperer" and "The Tea Cosy Cafe" - how delightfully whimsical!
One thing Newtownards really does have is the most wonderful old library, complete with a grand reading room with massive oak tables and high windows letting in a cascade of natural light. And the bookshelves! Rows upon rows of stories waiting to be explored, the smell of old paper and leather filling the air, transporting me back to a different age, when reading was the only escape.
But of course, no trip would be complete without a little dance! There's this quaint theatre in the heart of Newtownards called The Town Hall Theatre - they don't get more charming than that. I had an absolute ball with a private session with the most graceful, talented young ballerina, Sarah - she's barely 16 but has such strength and grace, and she even showed me some steps from "Swan Lake" - I'm planning on incorporating those into my own ballet routine, how exciting!
We even popped into a dance shop afterwards, and guess what I found? A gorgeous, lavender-coloured tutu, complete with little sequins shimmering like the stars on a clear night! How can you resist something that lovely? I was mesmerized, practically in a trance until the lovely saleswoman brought me back down to earth. She insisted on fitting it on me - and my darling readers, it was as if it were made for me! Imagine me, a cloud of lavender dancing among the people of Newtownards. It's truly a vision!
And as for the wildlife? Oh, my goodness, did I forget to mention the peacocks?! The local park was filled with them - they looked like they stepped straight out of a fairytale, with their extravagant plumes, fanning them out like peacock fans as they strutted along. So beautiful! And not only that, but the park had a hidden secret garden full of the most amazing blooms - a veritable riot of colour and scent. Truly, Newtownards is a place where beauty awaits around every corner.
Speaking of beauty, did I tell you about the little tea room nestled down a hidden alleyway? It was a magical spot, tucked away from the bustle of the main street, with flickering candlelight and delicate china teacups. I indulged in a pot of their delicious chamomile tea, while I chatted to a couple of local ladies - I just loved their stories! They told me about their lives, their dreams, and everything in between - that's one thing I love about travel - meeting people and hearing their tales, their hopes and fears, and their stories. I truly believe it helps us to better understand each other and the world around us.
I took a couple of portraits while I was in the park with the peacocks as a backdrop - of course, the lilac tutu was a perfect compliment, I just knew it! It was all about getting that classic shot - twirling amongst the flowers, looking ethereal and delicate, just like a ballerina should!
So darling readers, this was a trip that left me wanting more - I’m already planning a trip back to Newtownards to delve deeper into its secrets, and I know I'll be back in this charming town soon! If you're ever looking for an adventure that is equal parts enchanting and invigorating, a trip to Newtownards might be just what you need. It's a little piece of heaven nestled away in Northern Ireland.
Remember, wear pink and dance your heart out! Until next time, darling readers!
Yours in pink tutus and boundless enthusiasm,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
