#PinkTutuVienna blog on 2005-01-19

Hey Darlings! It’s Wednesday again, so it’s time for another installment of Pink Tutu Travels! This week I’ve whisked myself off to Vienna, the City of Music and Dreams. Let’s just say the travel was just as grand as the destination – I made my journey by train, and believe me, it was nothing short of magical! A beautiful carriage with plush velvet seats, big windows offering a view of the countryside like a painting… even a little refreshment trolley serving tea and cakes. A complete fairy-tale. I may have even been spotted practicing my pliés on the carriage floor – but what’s a ballerina to do?

Stepping off the train into Vienna, my heart was overflowing. This city is simply stunning! Think grand buildings, beautiful parks, cobblestone streets... and yes, lots of people wearing fabulous outfits. Oh, and have I mentioned the pink tutus I spotted already? They’re everywhere! (A girl can only dream). I feel so at home here, so chic!

So, what’s been on my agenda this week in Vienna? Let me fill you in…

This week kicked off with a whirlwind of activity. Firstly, Vienna is bursting with ballet history. So, a visit to the Vienna State Opera was a must, darlings! The building is breath-taking - just picture huge ornate archways and chandeliers sparkling like a million stars. I had goosebumps just walking through the door. Then it was onto a wonderful tour of the Opera’s costume department – it’s like walking into a world of tutus, feathers and sparkling sequins! A girl can only dream of having that much fabric.

After my dose of opera, I went in search of a very special pink tutu, naturally! Now, there’s a little shop nestled away in a quaint cobbled street that I simply had to visit. "Marie’s Vintage", they called it, filled with the most divine pre-loved pieces, some even from the Victorian era. I found a beautiful vintage pink tutu with the most gorgeous layered frills – she's staying with me. My latest pink tutu acquisition, perfect for Vienna, and perfect for my #PinkTutuVienna journey.

Vienna also boasts some magnificent imperial sights, like the Hofburg Palace! It felt like stepping back in time to a world of waltzing ladies and dapper gentlemen, a touch of imperial flair and that perfect pink palace vibe! So I'm off on an afternoon waltz through the palace gardens, I'll be sure to take a spin around in my brand new pink tutu.

It’s all about dance and history in Vienna, which makes it even better. So naturally, a visit to the "Dance History Museum" was essential. What a wonderful place, brimming with ballet memorabilia! Pictures of legendary ballerinas in dazzling costumes and even costumes on display – talk about fashion goals, right? My favorite find was a beautifully worn, pale pink tutu from a 1920s Vienna Ballet performance - such delicate fabric and elegant lines!

As an avid ballet enthusiast, I had to put myself to the test. Vienna, of course, boasts some of the most beautiful and prestigious ballet schools in the world. So, after an hour in the museum, I made my way to the world-renowned Vienna State Ballet School. The architecture is gorgeous, and the energy was pure joy! Even just standing there in that room filled with ballet dancers, you could practically feel the years of tradition. The classes are intense and challenging – not just any beginner course, darling! This is where ballerinas of the future learn to fly! After all, you must stay up on your training. And they definitely made me feel the burn! (My legs will be aching for days!)

To relax my legs after all that strenuous dancing, I was fortunate to meet a sweet elderly lady called Greta who took me to a quaint little coffee house. Oh my, Vienna is famous for its Kaffee - delicious rich dark coffee. Perfect with a delicious Sachertorte (chocolate cake). What could be more charming?

Today was an unexpected treat. My little "Pink Tutu" adventure involved a journey on a beautiful horse-drawn carriage ride through the Vienna Woods. Imagine it, darlings! We glided through the lush green forests, the sunlight dappling through the trees, and the soft rhythmic clip-clop of hooves on the road. It was absolutely dreamy! It reminded me of fairy-tales, the gentle rocking of the carriage made me feel a bit giddy. Perfect for taking photos too, which I naturally did. A truly unique and romantic experience, perfect for a Pink Tutu-wearing blogger.

Vienna is a place that whispers stories of artistry, tradition, and a sprinkle of magic. It’s truly an elegant city – it’s in the architecture, the music, the people. Vienna also has a romantic aura - a little dreamy, just like a pink tutu! What's better than the sound of waltz music while wearing your very best pink tutu? The world is our stage, after all!

If you ever find yourself in this enchanting city, do explore all the amazing little alleyways. They're like tiny secret passages where you can find the best shops and cafes - there are just too many to list! Be sure to take a walk along the river Donau, with all the pretty little bridges. Oh, and make sure to take a look at all the street performers in front of the Opera. What’s a trip to Vienna without a little dose of entertainment, darlings? And always wear your pink tutu, it will open doors in this beautiful, ballet-obsessed city!

Vienna, you stole my heart, and I promise to return, Pink Tutu and all!

**Lots of love,

Emma 🩰**

Vienna is a perfect place to discover beautiful pink things. While you are there, be sure to visit the Schönbrunn Palace – there's a charming gift shop full of royal souvenirs and gifts, and I saw a truly delightful pink teapot – the cutest thing I've ever seen.

Oh, and for any ballet enthusiast out there – I'm thinking about putting together a special Pink Tutu guide to Vienna – with all the ballet related tips, and some extra advice on how to stay fabulous while touring around!

Stay tuned, darlings!

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