#PinkTutuVienna blog on 1998-01-28

Hello darlings! It's Wednesday again, so let's get our tutus twirling! I'm back from another adventure in beautiful Vienna, and I'm simply brimming with inspiration and waltzing on clouds (a metaphorical cloud, obviously, I'm still trying to find my hover skirt).

This week has been a total fairytale! Picture this: cobbled streets lined with cafes where Viennese waltzes fill the air, grand opera houses dripping with gilded history, and me, twirling through it all in a pink tutu. Honestly, it doesn't get much more magical.

As usual, I journeyed by train from Derbyshire. Honestly, I can't imagine a more romantic way to travel. The rhythmic clickety-clack of the wheels, the lush green countryside slipping by the windows, and the sense of anticipation as you draw closer to your destination - it's just pure bliss!

This time, though, I decided to add a touch of "Emma-esque" whimsy to my journey. I bought a giant box of macarons, all different colours and flavours (of course, a vibrant pink one took pride of place) and tucked it under my arm like a charming companion. Everyone smiled at me, and a kind gentleman even offered me a cup of tea! It seems even macarons have the power to connect with strangers in the most beautiful way.

Vienna, my dears, is a city that vibrates with music. The waltzes, the operas, the street performers – every corner whispers a melodious tune. This week, I found myself captivated by the Vienna State Opera, a magnificent palace of music. The architecture was simply breath-taking, a true testament to Austrian elegance.

Imagine me, all pink tutu and sparkly tiara, gliding through the throngs of people in black tie and glamorous gowns. It was a real life fairytale! The opera itself, Mozart's "The Magic Flute", was an explosion of colour and drama, perfectly echoing the grandeur of the surroundings.

And after the opera? I found myself swept away by the Viennese waltzes in the Hofburg Palace! Oh my dears, the sheer romanticism! Men in top hats, ladies with elaborate ball gowns and I, twirling with joy in my pink tutu, feeling like a princess in a fantastical dream.

Naturally, I couldn't come to Vienna without indulging in a bit of ballet! I found a lovely studio tucked away in a quaint alleyway, with a teacher who radiated a gentle, yet fiery passion for ballet. It was amazing! The class, full of aspiring dancers of all ages, felt so warm and welcoming.

My tutu was the talk of the studio, you can imagine. There were a few surprised glances at first, but soon everyone was smiling and even attempting a few twirls themselves! One little girl, about eight years old, told me I was "the most beautiful ballerina in Vienna". That little ray of sunshine's comment filled me with a warmth that melted my heart!

Speaking of warmth, no trip to Vienna would be complete without indulging in some delightful shopping. Vienna is a haven for exquisite craftsmanship and timeless elegance. My favourite discovery was a tiny antique shop overflowing with forgotten treasures: vintage brooches sparkling with coloured gems, delicate lace scarves, and a pair of antique ballet shoes, oh my dears!

But my absolute highlight was a new pink tulle skirt I found in a hidden shop in the Altstadt. It had the most intricate lace trim, the colour of blushing roses, and a perfect swish when I twirled. Now, I have to admit, even I gasped!

On Saturday, I took a horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets of Vienna, a wonderful way to take in the sights of the city. Imagine, being surrounded by the clip-clop of hooves, the sweet scent of hay and the vibrant colours of the buildings rushing by! The city seems to open up, sharing its fascinating past, the tales of its famous emperors and its glorious legacy as the heart of Europe.

Everywhere you look in Vienna, you see layers of history. I strolled through Schönbrunn Palace, the beautiful summer residence of the Habsburgs, feeling like I was stepping into a painting from centuries ago. And of course, the iconic St. Stephen's Cathedral with its majestic tower rising towards the heavens, a testament to the power of faith and beauty.

Vienna, my dear, you've truly stolen my heart. A city of waltzing dreams, cobbled streets lined with history, and a spirit of grace and elegance that flows like the sweet sound of a violin.

But most of all, thank you Vienna, for welcoming me in my pink tutu with open arms. I've seen beauty in your grand architecture, warmth in the hearts of your people, and a magical twinkle in the air that only a city filled with dreams and waltzing hearts can hold.

So, my dear readers, keep twirling, keep believing in the magic, and remember - everyone has a pink tutu inside them, waiting to be unleashed. Until next week, when I'll be taking on the next chapter in my pink tutu travels,

Love and sparkles,

Emma xxx