Hello my darlings!
It's Wednesday, which means it's time for a new Pink Tutu Vienna blog post! This week, I'm waltzing into the heart of Vienna, the city of music, where waltzes are as common as a sunny day and cafes brim with artistic chatter. As a dancer, I just couldn't resist a visit to the cradle of the waltz.
And, of course, I brought my trusty pink tutu! It seems like everywhere I go, people stop me to ask about it, or simply offer a charming smile. The vibrant pink against Vienna's traditional backdrop has been turning heads. It's definitely made the trip more fun, if a tad attention-grabbing!
But enough about me - let's delve into Vienna's magical enchantment.
A Journey Through Time: By Train and by Horse
I arrived in Vienna via the most delightful of journeys: by train, of course! Nothing beats the leisurely pace of rail travel. As the scenery unfolded - fields turning into forests, then quaint towns appearing in the distance - I couldn't help but imagine what life was like centuries ago, when emperors and empresses rode through these same landscapes in their elegant carriages.
Vienna itself has a time-warp quality, with Baroque buildings, grand avenues, and bustling marketplaces seamlessly coexisting. One moment I'm admiring the Habsburg's summer palace, Schönbrunn, with its ornate gardens and majestic fountain, the next I'm savouring a delicious slice of Sachertorte in a charming coffee house, enjoying the soft strum of a nearby piano.
Speaking of music, the waltz. Oh, the waltz! You truly can't escape its influence here. Whether you're browsing a street market or strolling through the historic heart of the city, the rhythmic tunes fill the air.
To capture this magical atmosphere, I booked a special horse-drawn carriage ride through the city centre. Can you imagine the sheer joy? Sitting on a velvet seat, cloaked in a blanket, a pair of gentle horses pulling us past grand buildings illuminated by the golden afternoon sun - it felt like something out of a fairytale. The soft clinking of the carriage wheels provided a rhythmic soundtrack to my tour, and the driver was a real charmer, sharing stories of Vienna's illustrious past.
Ballet Under the Stars:
Of course, my visit wouldn't be complete without a dose of ballet! The Vienna State Opera, the world-renowned house that premiered "The Magic Flute," held a special open-air performance in the Schönbrunn Palace gardens.
As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the courtyard, I felt a tingle of excitement. The open-air setting was absolutely enchanting, with the towering palace looming behind the stage and a hush falling over the audience as the music began. I loved being so close to the performers, feeling the energy of their movements. And as the waltz played, my pink tutu seemed to shimmer with an extra glow!
Shopping and the Vienna Ballet Museum:
After a long day exploring Vienna's hidden nooks and charming squares, no trip would be complete without indulging in a little retail therapy! Vienna boasts a plethora of beautiful boutiques, where I found the perfect outfit for a gala dinner - a shimmering blush pink gown that captured the essence of the Viennese Waltz. And naturally, I couldn't leave without picking up a few souvenirs: delicate handmade lace for my grandmama, and a charming porcelain doll in a pink tutu (of course!) for my niece.
For all you fellow ballet lovers, I recommend a visit to the Vienna Ballet Museum. I spent hours exploring the captivating history of ballet and the role it played in the evolution of dance. They have exquisite costumes from legendary ballets, fascinating ballet ephemera, and captivating details about Vienna's thriving ballet scene. They even had a display dedicated to the history of the tutu - how fabulous! It's a must-see for any ballerina's pilgrimage.
Vienna: A Dance of Passion
As I finish writing this post from my cozy hotel room, I find myself feeling deeply moved by Vienna's unique blend of art, culture, history, and vibrant energy. There's something undeniably romantic about this city. Every street corner, every cobblestone path seems to echo with a love of life, passion for artistry, and a relentless pursuit of beauty.
For a ballerina like myself, it was truly magical. Every step, every waltz, every twinkle of lights has inspired me anew.
Until next Wednesday, keep twirling!
XOXO
Emma
P.S. Did you know that the waltz was invented in Vienna around the 18th century? It’s thought to have been inspired by traditional folk dances, but with a faster tempo and more elegance. Today, Vienna is synonymous with the waltz, and there's no better place to experience it in all its glory.
P.P.S. This weekend, I'm taking a trip to Salzburg. I hear they have some incredible ice cream! And I hear Mozart’s birthplace is there. I can’t wait to share all the adventures with you next week! Be sure to check back on my website, www.pink-tutu.com , every Wednesday for a new post.
Follow my Pink Tutu Adventures:
Instagram: @pinktutublogger Facebook: Pink Tutu Diaries Twitter: @EmmaPinkTutu
I can't wait to hear from you all about your adventures in life. Remember, there's a pink tutu waiting for everyone!
