Oh, darling! Fancy a waltz? It's Wednesday again, so you know what that means, it's time for another post from your favourite tutu-wearing travel-bud! This week, it's straight from the heart of Vienna, Austria, where I've just waltzed into a whirl of history, culture, and yes, you guessed it - shopping! 😉
Now, let's start this journey in the most fabulous way possible – on the back of a majestic white stallion! Yes, this week, I ditched the train for a delightful (and admittedly slightly pricier) horse-drawn carriage ride around the glorious, glittering streets of Vienna. It's hard not to feel like a fairytale princess, particularly in a pink tutu and a feathered hat! The carriage journey was just what I needed to feel like royalty in the City of Dreams - it just makes everything seem that bit more magical. I even managed to squeeze in a quick impromptu ballet performance on the way to my favourite coffee house - the locals really love it!
Speaking of royalty, Vienna just drips with imperial history, doesn't it? Every corner feels steeped in waltzing waltzes and swirling waltzes, which just perfectly suits my pink tutu vibe! Today I popped by the magnificent Hofburg Palace - oh my, it was like stepping back in time. They've got these absolutely stunning royal apartments, with ornate rooms and glittering chandeliers. It's easy to see why Marie Antoinette and Empress Elizabeth (the stunning Empress Sisi, of course!) loved their life in Vienna, surrounded by such decadent luxury. Of course, as an aspiring ballet queen myself, I couldn't leave the Hofburg Palace without indulging in a bit of twirling in the grand Imperial Ballroom - imagine all those Viennese balls that have been held in this very room! I can almost hear the strains of the famous Blue Danube waltz now!
But let's talk tutus for a moment, darlings! My current obsession is a beautiful blush-pink tutu adorned with crystal embellishments - perfectly princessy, and a great addition to my Vienna wardrobe! This delicate tutu perfectly encapsulates the Vienna essence - a touch of grandeur with an elegant sprinkle of romance. And did I mention, it twirls just as perfectly as my old faithful, fiery pink tutu?
I actually had the most magical morning finding the most beautiful handmade tutus in a little, hidden atelier. The atelier's owner is an incredibly sweet elderly lady who has been sewing tutus for as long as she can remember - she even had some beautiful old photos of her performing in tutus as a ballerina in her younger years. It truly is a dream for any tutu-lover! I bought not just one, but two absolutely delightful tutus for a steal (although I won't lie, the tutus themselves aren't really the bargain... but I will say the lovely owner is a bit of a bargain!)! And to think, she is practically the last remaining tutu artisan in Vienna! You see darling, the magic of tutus isn't confined to the theatre, they can make any journey utterly unforgettable!
As we are speaking of unforgettable journeys, my beloved tutus, I simply must mention this afternoon's treat. I popped in to see Vienna State Opera – wow, the performance was a breathtaking blend of passion and skill. And to think, this magnificent opera house dates all the way back to the late 18th century - that's truly some impressive historical fashion and architecture right there. Speaking of the architecture, they say it's inspired by a classic Italian opera house. Well, my dears, this certainly felt like something right out of a ballet scene. From the rich, mahogany seating to the intricate murals adorning the ceiling – it was all so lavish. And speaking of the dance... I saw the most beautiful ballerinas with the most graceful movements and a precision that just takes your breath away. Each arabesque, each pirouette, it was an artistic symphony of expression that captivated my soul! My favourite dancer was this amazing young lady with jet black hair who moved across the stage like a phantom - I honestly thought she might float away! It truly made me feel like I was watching the actual birth of beauty - like the mythical creature in that fairy tale, but I just felt so wonderfully alive!
Of course, after a day of theatre, shopping, and horse-riding, I knew I was in dire need of some pampering! I went for the most heavenly hot chocolate (laced with a whisper of rum for extra indulgence) in one of Vienna's legendary coffee houses. These coffee houses are not only steeped in history but ooze charm – they are just delightful and have this irresistible old-world allure that brings me so much peace and joy! Vienna’s cafes truly capture the true essence of European sophistication. The interiors of the cafe had that rich and old world charm with dark wooden furniture, polished copper pots and beautiful porcelain china. As for the decadent pastries on display – oh darling, just heavenly!
As I write this blog, the soft strains of a violin from the nearby street serenade my ears. In the heart of this enchanting city, with its waltzing waltzes and charming horse-drawn carriages, it's impossible not to feel completely immersed in the beauty and charm of Vienna. As I make my way to the grand Ballet Theatre tonight, my heart is bursting with anticipation – ready for a mesmerising performance of “Swan Lake,” in one of the most legendary theatres in Europe. You can bet your tutu-wearing backside I’ll be capturing every last bit of ballet magic on my phone - I must share these treasures with you all!
And darling, I know what you are all thinking – but I will not be sporting my pink tutu for a full opera! Even for this ballet loving girly girl, it feels like a bit much, even for a night of "Swan Lake," don't you think? 😉 Instead, I've got an absolutely divine lilac and blush-pink ball gown for the show! Don't you worry, you'll get a full post with pictures of this magical evening on Monday (it is always an extra treat to share these kinds of stories on the weekends) – keep a close eye on the www.pink-tutu.com website, darlings!
Right then, I best dash now, before I miss my carriage. Farewell for now! Don't forget to keep it fabulous and wear a tutu at least once a week! 😘
Love, Emma.
xx
