Wednesday, August 25th, 1999
Dearest Tutu-ettes,
This Wednesday, I find myself perched on a cobblestone bench in the shadow of Vienna’s glorious Hofburg Palace, and the city's charming hum buzzing around me like a beautiful symphony. Yes, I've finally arrived in Vienna! Oh, my dears, this city is simply breathtaking, like a fairytale stepped out of a book, and with that magical air I simply had to dust off my tulle and grace the streets of Vienna with a touch of pink!
As usual, I decided to make my grand entrance by train. It’s just a joy to watch the world roll past, and as the train rattled through the Austrian countryside, I dreamt of all the waltzing and dancing that would await me in Vienna!
The moment I stepped out of the train station into the warm afternoon air, I was hit by Vienna's captivating charm! It’s a city where the grand old buildings wear their age gracefully, and every corner whispers stories of emperors and empresses, waltzes and romance! I couldn't help but feel a little bit like a princess myself!
Of course, as always, my pink tutu went straight on the moment I arrived at my quaint little guesthouse - a place tucked away in a quiet corner of the city, overflowing with the aroma of freshly baked apple strudel and the warmth of a loving Austrian grandmother! The proprietor, Frau Helga, had even surprised me with a vase of pink roses. I swear, darling, there is a real magic in the air in Vienna.
Now, as I write this from my balcony overlooking a delightful garden courtyard, a flock of pigeons fluttering in the late afternoon light, I simply must tell you all about my first 24 hours in this extraordinary city.
The Magnificent Stephansdom:
Oh, my dears! I immediately hopped on the tram and made my way straight to the towering grandeur of St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom), its magnificent spire piercing the blue Viennese sky! It is an incredible feat of architecture, with those famous tile-covered roof designs that truly leave you spellbound! The gothic intricacies and rich colours were a feast for the eyes, and I couldn't resist spinning a little twirl under its magnificent shadow - imagine, the grand entrance to a pink tutu ballet right at the doorstep of history!
Shopping! Shopping! Shopping!:
After soaking up the awe-inspiring history of the cathedral, my senses naturally started tingling with the irresistible scent of shopping. You see, my love for ballet goes hand in hand with my passion for fashion, and Vienna is the ultimate destination for both.
I was simply charmed by Vienna's many exquisite boutiques, the ones lined with rows upon rows of gorgeous shoes and chic outfits, as if all the stories of the waltz-loving emperors and empresses whispered through each piece. Oh, how I imagined waltzing through Vienna in each one, their elegant designs caressing my body with each twirl!
Of course, a trip to Vienna wouldn't be complete without a visit to one of the most prestigious ballet shops, the one known for ballet shoes and tutus that truly embrace every shade of pink imaginable. And yes, darlings, you can bet I've already found a couple of stunning new tutus to add to my collection! Oh, how my heart skipped a beat!
The Waltz of History: Schönbrunn Palace:
My dear, there’s something truly special about history being brought to life, and what better place to immerse oneself in history than Schönbrunn Palace? This palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburg emperors and empresses, is an absolutely mesmerizing blend of history, artistry and beauty.
As I walked through the rooms where generations of emperors once held court, I imagined balls, waltzes, and perhaps even a little pink tutu ballet, as the echoes of long-gone courtly elegance lingered in the air. Each room was adorned with elaborate chandeliers, priceless art, and, of course, intricate carvings that spoke of the lavish lifestyle of these once-powerful figures.
It felt like time had stopped in those magnificent halls. As I walked through the grand gardens, with fountains whispering and manicured bushes carefully sculpted in delicate swirls, I simply couldn't resist lifting my skirt and doing a graceful twirl for the sun!
The Charm of Coffee Houses:
Now, let me tell you, darling, Vienna is a haven for those who adore the classic Viennese coffee houses, with their timeless allure. Oh, the charm of sipping on a delicate, steaming cup of café au lait amidst the city’s literary and artistic legacy - a treat to savour, darling. I found myself transported to another time, and with a book of ballet history tucked in my tote, I immersed myself in a world of dance and culture!
And of course, no trip to a coffee house would be complete without the famous Viennese Sachertorte. It’s the epitome of a perfect sweet indulgence. This delicate cake, with its decadent chocolate filling and layers of marzipan icing, truly made for an utterly heavenly afternoon!
Vienna Calling:
Vienna, oh Vienna, you are enchanting, and the beauty of your heart is evident everywhere you turn! From the majestic cathedrals to the historic palaces, every corner whispers tales of a city with an exquisite spirit of art, beauty, and history, with a charm that will leave you speechless!
Well, darlings, I must away for now. I have a very exciting ballet performance to prepare for!
Don’t forget, to stay updated, pop over to my website, www.pink-tutu.com!
I will be posting my next adventure next Wednesday!
Yours in tulle and twirls,
Emma
