Hello my darlings! It's Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood tutu enthusiast, bringing you a whirlwind of pink-hued joy from the delightful seaside town of Folkestone. 🌊
The train journey down was pure bliss. The scenery was like something out of a painting, with rolling hills, picturesque villages, and of course, the ever-present sheep, who always remind me of the adorable lambs I used to watch frolicking in Derbyshire. The train itself was a little gem - plush red seats, the gentle rhythm of the tracks, and a charming elderly gentleman who insisted on offering me a homemade chocolate fudge (which, of course, I politely accepted!).
Folkestone welcomed me with open arms, a gentle sea breeze kissing my cheek and a vibrant buzz of activity filling the air. I decided to make my grand entrance in a sunshine-yellow tutu – a vibrant contrast against the deep blue of the English Channel. 🌞 It’s not everyday you see a dancer twirling down the promenade in a yellow tutu! But that’s the joy of this life - making people smile and feeling that little surge of joy when you know you’re pushing those boundaries and doing what makes you happy!
Speaking of joy, Folkestone’s Harbour Arm is a must-see. It’s the epitome of seaside charm - buzzing with life, laughter, and the aroma of freshly cooked seafood. I enjoyed a delicious plate of oysters with a glass of chilled fizz while soaking in the salty air and watching the sun paint the sky in hues of pink and orange. Did I mention pink? Oh yes, it's just the best colour ever, don’t you agree?
For a ballet enthusiast like myself, a trip to Folkestone wouldn't be complete without exploring the Leas Cliff Hall. It’s a beautiful Grade II listed building and a cherished landmark in the town, known for hosting fantastic theatre productions, live music performances, and, best of all, some glorious dance shows. I managed to snag tickets for a captivating contemporary ballet performance that evening – a truly magical experience with so much emotion and movement that it truly captivated my soul! I even found myself bursting into impromptu pirouettes at the interval – something that's becoming increasingly commonplace. 🩰
Of course, a seaside town wouldn't be complete without a spot of wildlife spotting. I had an absolute blast at the Folkestone Harbour Arm with my camera, snapping away at the diverse collection of seabirds – gulls, herons, and even a graceful little grey seal enjoying a sunny spot on the rocks!
My love affair with horses wouldn’t allow me to visit Folkestone without a little equestrian experience, so I took a delightful horseback ride along the scenic coastline. The wind in my hair, the sun on my face, and the rhythmic clop-clop of hooves on the soft sand - there’s no better way to explore! And trust me, this pony had a flair for the dramatic - just watch out for her little dance moves – she is definitely an undercover ballet lover at heart!
But it wouldn't be a true "Emma" day out without a visit to the local ballet studio. I’m firmly committed to spreading the joy of dance wherever I go. I made some time to visit a local dance school where I spent an hour leading a delightful ballet class. I must confess that those enthusiastic little ones are now my newest fans! They were eager to learn, filled with excitement and pure love for dance – just like I was at their age! You know my motto: Everyone wears a pink tutu eventually!
Before departing Folkestone, I made sure to explore the charming cobbled streets and quirky boutiques. The town has such a unique character, a mix of vintage chic, bohemian vibes, and a touch of seaside charm. The vintage shops and artisan bakeries along the harbour front were pure bliss, offering a haven of handmade treasures, unique finds, and sweet treats. I also couldn't resist adding to my already impressive tutu collection at the adorable vintage store, "Tutus and Tales," where I found the most glorious scarlet tutu. It’s just the thing to inject a pop of colour into my next dance class in Derbyshire.
So, my darling readers, as the sun set over Folkestone, painting the sky in hues of lavender and peach, I found myself reflecting on the beauty of simple joys, the magic of travel, and the power of ballet to uplift, inspire, and bring people together. It truly is an amazing experience, sharing my love for dance and tutus, and showing the world just how fun and liberating dancing can be!
I bid farewell to Folkestone with a contented sigh and a twinkle in my eye, carrying the joy of this pink-filled adventure with me, eager to explore new horizons, spread the tutu love, and share it all with you.
See you next time, my sweet darlings!
Always and forever, Emma xx
www.pink-tutu.com
