Hello darlings! It’s Emma, your favourite pink tutu-clad traveller, and I’m writing to you from the most magical city imaginable: Vienna! Oh, this place is utterly divine. It's as if the Christmas spirit has poured its entire magic into the streets, and even the air seems to sparkle.
This week has been a whirlwind of waltzes, waltzes, and more waltzes! As I always say, "the best way to see a city is on pointe!"
The Ballet: Vienna State Opera
Let’s begin with the absolute highlight – the ballet! I spent Tuesday evening mesmerized by the Vienna State Opera, which has the most exquisite interior, fit for a fairytale. Think velvet, gilt, and enough chandeliers to make you feel like Cinderella herself!
The performance was a beautiful rendition of ‘The Nutcracker’, so elegant and timeless. Even my trusty, pink tutu seemed to blend perfectly with the scene – the tulle was like spun sugar, matching the sweetness of the show. It was enough to make a ballerina weep tears of joy, especially when the snow fell during the Land of Snowflakes!
Fashion Finds: Viennese Delights
And talking about sugar, let’s delve into Vienna’s delicious delights! My dear friend, Sophie, who lives in Vienna, guided me through the city’s most stunning boutiques, each filled with enchanting fashion finds.
The day after the ballet, we ventured into a store on Kärntner Straße called “Salon du Chocolat”. Everything was covered in pink and purple and felt like stepping into a candy wonderland! Of course, a pink tutu wouldn't be out of place here! They had gorgeous silk scarves in a colour to match any ballet outfit and, well, what can I say, I had to add one to my wardrobe!
Then, we headed to another delightful boutique, “Schuhwerk” – the perfect place to pick up a pair of new dance shoes for the holiday season. I fell in love with a pair of glittery, rose gold flats - the perfect pairing for a festive ballet-themed evening!
Christmas Magic and Toffee Apples
On Wednesday, the atmosphere around the Vienna Christmas Market was absolutely incredible! There was the sound of Christmas carols, the aroma of roasting chestnuts and, of course, toffee apples! I had to try one. Oh, the sticky sweetness! It brought back so many warm childhood memories.
The market was like a scene straight out of a fairytale! Sparkling lights draped across gingerbread-house stalls, all nestled amongst towering fir trees. It was the perfect spot to get lost in the beauty and magic of Christmas!
A Viennese Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride
But of course, no trip to Vienna is complete without a ride in a horse-drawn carriage, particularly around the enchanting Christmas Markets! We wrapped up warm in velvet coats and enjoyed a leisurely tour through the glittering city streets. And let me tell you, there's nothing quite like the rhythm of the hooves clicking against the cobblestones, creating a tune that truly embodies Vienna's charm!
Traditions and Tales: History In Vienna
But my adventure in Vienna wasn't all about waltzes, shopping and toffee apples – there’s so much rich history in this city! It's filled with stories whispering through its grand buildings and cobbled streets.
Sophie led me to a café, tucked away in a quiet corner of the city. We sipped Viennese coffee and talked about the history of ballet in Vienna. Apparently, it started in the 15th century, with its roots deeply entwined with the city’s aristocracy! I learned so much!
A Grand Ball, a Grand Farewell
For my grand finale in Vienna, Sophie and I joined the "Vienna Ball". This incredible event takes place at the beautiful Hofburg Palace – it was a night I’ll never forget. We danced, laughed, and savored the elegant atmosphere of this historic event, and even I – in my bright pink tutu – fit in just perfectly!
Vienna, you’ve been an absolute dream! It’s hard to leave, but every place needs a bit of the pink tutu touch, so I’m off to spread the sparkle and joy of ballet somewhere new.
Stay tuned for next week's blog post as I journey to … well, that's a secret for now!
Until then, wear a smile, spin around in your favourite tutu and remember - ballet is for everyone!
Stay sparkly, Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
