Hey lovelies!
It's Emma here, your favourite tutu-wearing, pink-obsessed, ballet-loving blogger, back with another diary entry from my whirlwind travels. Today, I'm taking you to the charming town of Newtownards, Northern Ireland - and you know what? It's even more delightful than it sounds!
It's all thanks to my absolute love for travelling by train - I always find myself in new, exciting places. I was browsing for tickets to the west of the country (a secret: I'm currently on a quest to visit every ballet school in the UK) when I saw a journey going to Newtownards. It's so pretty there - there’s lots of lush, green rolling countryside that is a real treat for my eyes after a winter in the Dales, and there's even an old railway line! It’s practically crying out for a new Victorian-era steam train to rumble across.
I stepped off the train and, quite literally, whoosh - there I was, in the middle of a charming town full of beautiful architecture. I saw the iconic Town Hall - imagine the elegance of a stately manor house! – and that really lovely water park just down the road, where all the kids were having a blast, especially those kids with those little ballet steps, they must’ve had dance in their genes, or maybe it's all those amazing dance lessons in Newtownards.
Of course, I didn’t come for the scenery alone! No, I was on a mission, darlings, - a tutu-mission, you could say!
A big dance festival, Ballet at the Bay, was happening in the town - the perfect opportunity to lose myself in the world of ballet! And trust me, I lost myself good and proper. The local studios really got into the spirit of things - so much colour and vibrant performances. It’s good to see there's so much support for ballet at every level! There were troupes of local dancers, tiny ones taking their first steps in tutus - their proud mums' and dads' faces were shining like those beautiful stage lights, oh so bright. Then there were those impressive older ballerinas - such graceful movement - my mind went blank and the only thing left was to be totally in awe of their talent. And don't even get me started on the costumes. So many sparkling fabrics, the colour just seemed to come alive under the spotlight! A vibrant burst of creative talent, and I’d be surprised if Newtownards weren't the centre of the ballet world.
I even had the chance to sneak into a little private studio - tucked away, away from the bright lights of the festival - and the whole atmosphere was just magic. The floor, all polished and warm, felt like a magic carpet about to take me to some distant world. The mirrors sparkled like jewels in a crown, ready to reflect each and every gesture, to hold each moment forever. It was like the world outside faded away, leaving only me and my imagination, just a little bit more pink than normal, thanks to my fluffy, gorgeous tutu. And guess what? I even managed to convince a few of the students to take part in my 'pink tutu challenge'! It's going to be so fun to watch them embrace their inner ballerinas.
But you know, Newtownards had something for more than just the tutu-loving dancer like me.
It was such a lovely place to spend a day – the local market was just wonderful - so much charm. I found all sorts of treasures! I snagged the cutest pink, polka dot scarf (a total necessity, even in a warmer town like Newtownards!). It felt so elegant and I instantly had to tie it onto my gorgeous pink tutu – they really compliment each other don’t they? My favourite market find had to be those beautiful local craft chocolates - such artistry! They're tucked away nicely in my suitcase and ready to enjoy once I'm back at home. It was definitely worth all the fuss.
Of course, no trip is complete without a delicious afternoon tea - and let me tell you, Newtownards' cafes didn't disappoint. So many beautiful treats - I particularly loved the raspberry jam and the scone (you wouldn’t think they’d compliment my pink tutu so well!) But of course, it was perfect, darling - totally on theme! It was like a whole little ballet experience - it made me feel like a princess in a royal palace, drinking pink lemonade and getting ready to pirouette for an audience! Oh, and you know I snapped a picture to put on Instagram. It will definitely add some vibrance to my social media feeds. It's like a real-life storybook! I think everyone should try this tea at least once in their lives! It’s such a brilliant mix of charm and indulgence - it will make you feel like a superstar ballerina.
You know, I found myself drawn to the heart of the town - this place feels like a little ballet world, everyone loves dance. Everyone was so friendly, full of warmth and welcoming, it felt so personal and so friendly! Just the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to pirouette down the street and then stop and just admire those beautiful old buildings, full of life!
Speaking of warmth and friendship, remember those gorgeous grey horses with those soft, fluffy tails I saw in a nearby meadow, a gentle reminder of the magic found in those natural beauties – so stunning. They were gentle and a touch playful – it almost reminded me of a little dance routine - with just a little bit of mischief, just like all the sparkling ballerinas from the festival.
Honestly, Newtownards was a total joy. A beautiful town with so much heart - I left with a spring in my step, a touch of whimsy, and even a little sparkle from all those amazing costumes I saw at the ballet festival. The town’s magic rubbed off on me and I swear my own ballet steps got a bit lighter just from being there!
You know, I find these travel diary posts really lovely to look back on. It’s so amazing how each adventure helps me understand myself better - it helps me know my love of the world, its history, its colours, and especially its love for dance! This blog isn't just about travel or ballets - it’s about a personal journey that's leading me to that beautiful pink tutu moment.
You know the moment I'm talking about: That special moment when everyone is wearing a pink tutu, celebrating their own beautiful self and embracing the power and grace of movement.
I might be one pink tutu wearer, but I believe that magic can be found in everyone, just like I did in Newtownards. And I know that one day, everyone will experience that magic of feeling like a ballerina. And we’ll all be wearing pink tutus!
And, in the meantime, what’s your dream dance destination? What ballet-inspired thing are you looking forward to doing? Tell me everything.
Remember: You don’t need a special occasion to embrace your love of the ballet – make it an every day thing!
Sending you lots of ballet love,
Emma
P.S. Check out all the amazing photos from Newtownards on my Instagram - @emmapinktutu – and make sure you keep checking back for even more fun adventures - next week I’m off to London on my next ballet mission – with my favourite pink tutu of course!
