Dearest Tutu Lovers,
The air in Vienna crackles with a certain je ne sais quoi! The very cobblestones hum with a centuries-old waltz, the city itself feels like a fairytale straight out of a ballet! It’s a little overwhelming, and not just from the sheer number of pastries available - though the temptations are real! (More on that later!)
It’s a new week, which means it's time for a fresh installment of Pink Tutu Vienna! I landed in the city last Friday, after a rather romantic train journey from Salzburg. (And yes, I wore my new emerald green velvet tutu with the matching bolero, for all you fashionistas out there!) There's something undeniably enchanting about arriving in a new city by train, seeing the countryside change from rolling fields to a cityscape dappled with snow-capped rooftops. Pure magic, darling!
Of course, Vienna is famous for being the heart of classical music, and the city absolutely lives this tradition! From street performers filling the air with Strauss's melodies, to the majestic State Opera House, to the breathtaking performances in the Musikverein, the very walls of this city seem to hum with musical history. Speaking of the opera, it’s one of my absolute favourites! This week's schedule at the Vienna State Opera is bursting with amazing productions: Puccini’s Tosca, Bizet's Carmen, and, my personal pick, Verdi's La Traviata. Can you imagine how dreamy it is, sipping champagne in a grand box, with velvet cushions and the sparkling chandeliers above, watching the most dramatic love story of them all unfold on stage? I have my fingers crossed to snag a ticket!
Speaking of grand productions, Vienna is, of course, where waltzing was born! The Viennese Waltz, with its elegance and sweeping movements, is practically a language of its own. Just walking along the Ringstraße, the main boulevard in Vienna, you can practically feel the waltzing in the air! And yes, darling, I did find a magnificent pink ballgown-style tutu fit for the most extravagant waltz. I'm still working out a hair-do to compliment it, and yes, the search for a dapper escort is on!
And for my more… active tutu-loving friends, there is a flourishing ballet scene here in Vienna. It’s a perfect way to embrace the Viennese spirit! Ballet school tours, workshops, and classes are all over the city. I've been attending the Wiener Staatsballett class at the Staatsoper itself, which has been a real treat. Even though it's hard work, the energy is intoxicating, and the instructors are incredibly inspiring. Just the thought of joining them for their ballet evening performance, perhaps even participating in a beautiful swan lake scene? (Can you imagine my joy? The thought brings a lump to my throat!)
My adventures here, however, don't end with the waltz or ballet. This city has a stunning history and is brimming with breathtaking architecture, which has captivated my heart (and, I admit, my Instagram feed). I’ve been mesmerized by the baroque splendour of Schönbrunn Palace, strolled along the streets of the enchanting old town, and visited the grand Habsburg Empire palaces that line the Ringstraße. Each building has its own story, its own character. They're as intricate and full of wonder as a beautifully choreographed ballet!
Now, my sweet dears, as I mentioned earlier, there is the matter of Viennese pastries… the Gebäck, the Torten, the Sacher (that most delicious, rich chocolate cake that just makes your eyes roll up!), and so many more sweet temptations! It's the perfect spot for a delicious post-ballet afternoon treat. Or maybe a late night snack after seeing a production in the opera house! And don't even get me started on the Viennese coffee culture! I must confess to having indulged in a little Viennese pastry with my kleiner schwarzer.
Don't fret though, my loves! I'm not turning into a pastry-loving sloth! It’s just all part of the experience, the charming Viennese Lebensart! I've actually booked myself into a few more ballet classes (it's all part of keeping in shape!), and also to a ballet history workshop to deepen my knowledge. I'll be sharing my notes with you all soon!
But now, dear readers, the time has come for me to explore a little more of the city! Maybe a waltz through a historic park? Or perhaps a grand cafe? Maybe even an elegant dinner overlooking the Danube? You'll have to wait until next week's post for that!
Until then, wear your pink tutu proudly, my sweet lovelies, and keep twirling!
Much love,
Emma
P.S. Don’t forget to visit my website, www.pink-tutu.com, for a glimpse into my wardrobe, the latest tutu styles, and for exclusive content only available there. And be sure to catch up with all of my previous Pink Tutu travel posts from around the world!
