Happy Christmas everyone! š
It's Christmas Day and I'm absolutely thrilled to be writing to you from Vienna, the city of waltzes, beautiful architecture andā¦ yes, you guessed it, tutus! Iāve finally arrived in this stunning, musical city after a lovely train journey from the charming town of Salzburg, which just oozed Christmas spirit with all its festive markets and glittering decorations. And the train ride? Heavenly! So peaceful, surrounded by stunning snow-capped mountains and the sound of Christmas carols echoing through the carriages.
Of course, I couldnāt resist indulging in a little fashion extravaganza in Salzburg! Found a gorgeous little boutique crammed with all things pink and sparkly. I snagged the most darling, hand-beaded pink bow tie for my newest tutu, which, by the way, is a blush-coloured beauty with tiers and tiers of fluffy tulle, absolutely perfect for Vienna. I just have to share it with you! (Coming soon to the website!)
But onto Vienna! Oh, Vienna! I knew Iād be in love with this city and itās exceeded my wildest expectations! Everywhere you look, there are ornate palaces and grand squares bathed in a soft, golden glow. The sound of violins and cellos echoes through the cobbled streets and even the smell of the air is like a warm hug! I have already been exploring and feel like I'm stepping straight into a fairytale.
First on the list ā Vienna State Opera! What a showstopper! Just the exterior is something to behold, with its majestic grand neo-Renaissance style. Inside? Absolutely mind blowing! The sheer opulence, the crimson velvet, the intricate gilded decorationsā¦ and those incredible chandelier,s, sparkling like stars. Itās no wonder they call it āthe most beautiful opera house in the worldā.
Then came the performance! I saw Mozartās āThe Magic Fluteā, the most wonderful blend of beautiful music, intricate costumes and charming characters. My favourite part was definitely the finale, with a whole group of dancers, including the glorious ballerina in a cloud of pink tulle. She stole the show, quite honestly! My heart swelled with excitement! (Don't worry, I've added this amazing opera house to my pink-tutu-worthy places list, Iām already planning to see "The Nutcracker" later this month!)
After the show, a most delightful waltz around Viennaās winter wonderland! My toes did actually start tapping the moment we walked out of the opera house, and let me tell you, my brand-new pink tutu just twirled with such graceful charm as I waltzed under the starry night sky, with Christmas lights sparkling everywhere. The air was crisp and magical, the music, a sweet melody played by street musicians, filled the frosty night.
And you know, after a waltz and a magical opera show, you simply need a sweet treat! I wandered through the streets and discovered a bakery that practically whispered, āCome in, try our goodies!ā And you wouldnāt believe the magnificent cake I found! Layers of chocolate cake, sprinkled with crushed walnuts and creamā¦ Pure, decadent happiness. You could practically feel the sugar crystals tickling your tastebuds from across the street! Itās safe to say I enjoyed a few slices... ahem...
Day two and it was time for the Hofburg Palace, Viennaās grandest and most historic building. My first impressions? Simply jaw-dropping. The grand ballroom, where balls and gatherings of the Habsburg family once took place, took my breath away. My new pink tutu felt perfectly at home, it seemed like it was meant for a palace ballroom! The chandeliers glittered like stars, and every corner was adorned with intricate frescoes and paintings that whispered of history and majesty.
Now for a little history about tutus and Vienna, for I think they are quite inextricably linked! Viennaās waltz history (especially in the 19th century) is known for the "Ballrobeā, or āBallkleid", a type of fancy ball gown for women. And you can see the origins of tutus in those ball robes. The voluminous skirt, designed to twirl and glide across the dance floor - so romantic, don't you think? Of course, the ballerina tutus of today evolved through different styles and interpretations but that original romance and movement certainly lives on!
In the afternoon, a delightful trip to the Vienna Volksoper, Vienna's second opera house. It may not be as famous as the State Opera, but it was built for the working class, a symbol of art being accessible for everyone. It really made me feel like Vienna embraced dance and theatre in all its forms. I enjoyed the warm, friendly atmosphere and the amazing performance of Strauss' āDie Fledermausā! This opera is famous for its comedic aspects and fast-paced, swirling waltzes ā it was truly infectious fun! And to think, it was also a great source of inspiration for those beautiful ballet tutus that make their grand entrances at the Vienna State Opera!
Iām finishing this blog from my cosy hotel room, the sound of sleigh bells chiming in the street a beautiful lullaby to lull me to sleep. Tomorrow, I'm heading to the Schƶnbrunn Palace (the Habsburgsā summer residence), so be prepared for a glamorous blog post from one of Vienna's most enchanting locations!
In the meantime, please do share your thoughts about my Viennese adventures! What are your favorite things about this amazing city? Remember, my dear readers, every day can be a ballet! And in my world, a pink tutu makes every moment more magical.
Keep twirling! š
Emma x
