Wednesday 14th January 2004. Post No. 454
Hello darlings! It's Emma, back from Vienna with another sparkly instalment of the #PinkTutuVienna blog. This week, I'm bursting with excitement after a simply divine day spent exploring this magical city – all whilst wearing my most fetching pink tutu, of course! 😉
The journey here was pure bliss. I travelled by train from Salzburg, gazing out of the window at the rolling hills and snowy landscapes as I dreamed of waltzing under the Vienna Opera House chandelier. The air itself felt electric with the promise of grand balls and beautiful music!
As I stepped off the train at Wien Hauptbahnhof, my heart skipped a beat at the sheer majesty of the city. Everywhere I looked, there was history – the iconic Ringstraße with its magnificent buildings, the charming cobbled streets, the stately palaces, even the tram tracks themselves seem to whisper tales of emperors and empresses.
But first things first – tutus! Vienna is a real haven for any budding ballerina like myself. After dropping my bags at my lovely little boutique hotel (oh, it has the most exquisite lace curtains!), I went on a tutu pilgrimage to Aigner, a charming shop on Graben. They have the most divine collection – so many twirling, whimsical designs, from classic romantic tulle to daring modern creations! My heart skipped a beat when I found a stunning new tutu, all cascading tiers of delicate pink and white, perfect for the Vienna State Opera House later in the evening!
With my tutu sorted, it was time to experience the true magic of Viennese fashion. The streets here are a parade of exquisite outfits – so much elegance and chic! I even spotted a dashing gentleman sporting a top hat and a wonderfully flamboyant handlebar moustache – it was simply fabulous! I am smitten with the beautiful vintage jewellery I've seen at Wiener Werkstätte and have spent many a blissful hour in their gorgeous shop. I couldn't resist a sparkling art nouveau pendant that complements my tutu perfectly.
Of course, no trip to Vienna is complete without indulging in the city's legendary coffee culture. I had a most delectable Melange at a cosy cafe called Café Central – a beautifully brewed blend of coffee and steamed milk. I savoured every sip amidst the grandeur of the cafe’s Art Nouveau décor, the aroma of roasted beans and pastries creating the most charming atmosphere. It was pure bliss!
Then came the moment I had been waiting for – a grand evening at the Vienna State Opera House! I could hardly believe I was finally standing before this majestic, centuries-old theatre. Stepping inside felt like stepping back in time. It was a stunning spectacle – plush red velvet seating, intricate gold detailing, magnificent chandeliers twinkling above.
And then, the music began! Oh my, it was divine – Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake, one of my all-time favourite ballets! The dancers were absolutely mesmerising. Their grace, elegance, and pure passion were breathtaking. I simply lost myself in the magical story that unfolded before my eyes. My tutu felt like a perfect symbol of this magical night – whimsical, elegant and full of life!
It's true what they say – Vienna is a city steeped in music and romance. I can't wait to explore more of this enchanting place, from its museums to its grand gardens.
Keep an eye out next week for more adventures from Vienna. In the meantime, don't forget to wear a tutu and remember, everything is better in pink! 💋
Yours twirlingly,
Emma
