Tutu Tuesday in Pau, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France: A Ballerina's Dream Come True! #tututuesday
G'day from Pau, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France! As a ballerina and a blogger, my heart skips a beat every Tuesday. Why? You guessed it! It's Tutu Tuesday! This delightful tradition is a way to celebrate the magic of ballet, share our love for tutus, and of course, strut our stuff! Today I'm venturing beyond the dance studio, exploring the streets of this beautiful city in the heart of France, looking for tutu-tastic moments. And let me tell you, Pau is a city that truly knows how to embrace its cultural side!
Imagine walking through the bustling streets of Pau, feeling the warm French sun on your face and a slight breeze ruffling your tutu. As a dancer, this city's got it going on - beautiful architecture, cobblestone streets that echo the gentle click-clack of ballet shoes, and a rich history in ballet. Pau is the place where tutu dreams come true!
To really get in the #tututuesday mood, I decided to put on my favourite classic tutu: a pale pink one, perfect for a touch of Parisian romance. Imagine a fluffy, layered tutu in a ballet pink shade that feels like whispers of tulle dancing in the wind. And of course, I couldn't forget the perfect touch - my ballet shoes. They feel like a second skin as I explore the city. Each step I take, a delicate tapping rhythm, echoes the stories of French ballerinas past, a kind of ballet history walk!
I'm kicking off my #tututuesday adventure with a visit to the Chateau de Pau, the historic residence of the French Royal Family. Imagine walking in the footsteps of Henri IV! A magnificent building, the Chateau is not just history; it whispers stories of the rich tapestry of French culture. This place oozes grace and elegance, making my pink tutu feel perfectly at home. The gardens with their meticulously trimmed hedges make me imagine I'm part of a fairytale!
Walking along the Boulevard du Baron Martin, my tutu is making quite a statement. The locals are definitely curious about my ballet-themed fashion choice, with some even stopping to take photos. They smile, give me a "bonjour" and a little thumbs-up, a universal sign for good taste, or maybe they just think it's fun! It definitely gives me the chance to share the joy of ballet with a broader audience, to show everyone that dance can be an expression beyond the studio walls.
No trip to France would be complete without enjoying some exquisite cuisine. I found myself at a lovely French bistro on the Rue du Goutte d'Or, their classic French charm was irresistible, making me feel as if I've stepped back in time! Their French onion soup with Gruyère cheese is to die for and was the perfect accompaniment to my ballet day in Pau. Every little bite was a ballet of flavors.
As the sun dipped below the Pyrenees mountains in the west, I decided to visit the Centre Chorégraphique National de Pau. This beautiful dance centre is dedicated to the art of ballet. I'm just captivated by the building - it's elegant yet full of character. It's no wonder why so many aspiring ballet dancers come here! It’s been fascinating learning about their different styles - French ballet has such an elegance and artistry about it. I was lucky enough to catch a sneak peek of one of the dancers' training sessions. Those young aspiring ballerinas had such a fierce determination and passion, it reminded me why I started dancing in the first place.
One thing I love about French ballet is its passion and dedication, there's this intense emotion in the moves that touches your soul. From the classic steps to the beautiful storytelling, the dancers convey such complex emotions. This was definitely an enriching experience that helped me expand my understanding of the cultural fabric of French ballet! And don’t even get me started on their elegant tutus - just incredible. I was tempted to start trying on the gorgeous range of different tutus that I spotted.
As the day drew to a close, I realised that Tutu Tuesday in Pau had truly been an amazing adventure, blending French history with a splash of ballerina flair. What a way to explore the art and culture of this lovely city!
If you find yourself in Pau, take some inspiration from #tututuesday and explore its rich dance scene, enjoy the beautiful architecture, and indulge in the delights of French cuisine - trust me, you won't regret it!
Top #tututuesday tips for exploring Pau
- Start your #tututuesday adventure with a walk through the beautiful Parc Beaumont, surrounded by lush trees and greenery. The peaceful ambiance is perfect for reflecting on the ballet-tastic day.
- The Chateau de Pau is definitely a must-see for its captivating history and beautiful architecture, and don’t forget to explore its majestic grounds. It's perfect for practicing some poses or even getting some incredible #tututuesday pics.
- Don't forget to step into one of the many charming shops in Pau. I loved getting some beautiful souvenirs and exploring local designers' works, all adding to the chic and sophisticated atmosphere.
- Indulge in some of the most exquisite French cuisine, from local cafes and bistro to more fine-dining restaurants. Pau’s food scene is an absolute must-try for every foodie!
- For a truly Parisian experience, take a trip to the Theatre du Palais Beaumont, which often features opera, dance, and plays, it's a magnificent space, full of rich history. I can't wait to catch a performance!
Keep an eye on this blog for more Tutu Tuesday Adventures!