Hello darlings! Itās Wednesday, and that means itās time for a new blog post, fresh from the heart of Vienna. And, oh my, what a week it has been! Imagine if you willā¦ cobbled streets bathed in the warm golden glow of the setting sun, the elegant melodies of waltz music floating on the air, the graceful figures of ballet dancers swirling past... It's all so enchanting, so captivating, it's like a fairytale!
And Vienna, it truly is the City of Dreams. A city built on waltz rhythms and Strauss symphonies, steeped in rich imperial history, and now blossoming with a vibrant arts scene - this city has captivated my heart! I think this is where I've been wanting to come all my life, a little part of me finally feels complete being here!
Letās rewind a bit. My journey to Vienna began last Friday with the most magical train ride. Imagine the most exquisite vintage carriages, plush velvet seats, gleaming brass fixtures, and an abundance of beautiful pastel pink details (you know I couldn't resist that!) This was a train that whispered stories of bygone eras, carrying me, a little piece of Derbyshire, straight to the heart of Austria.
Upon arrival in Vienna, I felt like Iād stepped right out of a Mozart opera! A city of elegant grand squares, impressive palaces, and those iconic, candy-coloured buildings... it felt like every corner I turned brought with it a new piece of art.
Of course, my first stop had to be a dance shop! You can imagine how delighted I was when I found this treasure trove just around the corner from my hotel, filled with beautiful dance wear! A lovely lady helped me select a brand new pink tutu with the most intricate layering, the perfect shade of pink to blend with the city's dreamy charm. I twirled and twirled in front of the mirror, feeling absolutely beautiful! It's going to be my 'Vienna Tutu'.
That same day, I indulged in a delightful afternoon of exploring the magnificent Schƶnbrunn Palace, taking a leisurely horse-drawn carriage ride through the surrounding park. It was like being transported back to the time of Empress Maria Theresa, only this time, I had a delicious Vienna pastry to accompany me. Just divine!
Speaking of divine, the next day saw me attend the Vienna State Opera, and what a treat it was! A truly mesmerising production of āGiselleā, performed by a cast of exquisitely talented dancers, each move a perfect blend of power and grace. The sets and costumes were so opulent, it was almost too much to take in! It's really difficult to describe the feeling, but a goosebumps, smile-wide-with-excitement sort of a feeling! As the finale reached its crescendo, I felt myself truly transported by the emotions and sheer brilliance on stage, a part of this timeless masterpiece.
The following morning, I found myself stepping into a ballet class held at the Vienna Ballet Academy, feeling very much like a little girl back at the Royal Ballet in London, my Derbyshire accent almost sounding quaint! The classes were amazing, so energetic, full of life. We were all about that precision! A touch of Russian style too! But most importantly - it's all about feeling the joy of movement! I was reminded that every pirouette, every grand jetƩ, is a celebration of the art of dance.
But enough about me, don't worry, Iām not just here for dance, darling! This week, I also spent hours in Vienna's delightful boutiques and markets. A gorgeous embroidered blouse at a charming little store tucked away on a cobblestone street? Definitely. A delicate hand-painted fan? Most certainly. A decadent box of Mozartkugeln? I just couldn't resist, and of course, I got another pretty pink fascinator for the theatre - because a girl never has too many. There's simply no escaping my love for the colour pink. Vienna is just bursting with beautiful details, with that old-world elegance and charm, it's simply magical.
It's true, a pink tutu never leaves my side, but a well-chosen vintage hat and a fabulously embroidered shirt can certainly help elevate the look!
Don't get me wrong, though! Evenings have been just as exciting. I enjoyed dinner in a charming cafƩ that had the most beautiful rose garden in its courtyard, followed by a traditional Austrian dance lesson. Imagine, swirling around a dimly lit ballroom with laughter, music, and a charming gentleman who, although a little shy, said he "really likes my tutu", bless him! It made the evening a pure delight! Vienna is definitely a city where one can find themselves falling head over heels. A real charmer, a bit of a tease, and a dash of pure elegance, it really is hard not to fall in love with her!
Well, darling, the day has slipped away. But my Vienna adventure, and this lovely pink tutu life, is far from over! Keep a lookout for a full photographic diary of my trip coming soon, as soon as I get the images uploaded, and if you love dance and history, or just fancy a charming getaway, come with me next week, where we'll be dancing the waltz under the glorious summer sun in the magical Vienna!
Until next Wednesday! Remember, life is too short to wear dull shoes! Don't forget to put on a pink tutu, smile, and twirl.
Much Love,
Emma xoxo
P.S - I'll be putting some extra posts this week too. We're heading to a ballet gala later this evening. Then to Vienna's oldest Cafe for tea, where else to go to in the heart of Old Town, it will have to be the cafe with the name that matches my outfit, the pink coffee cups of āSacher Cafe.ā I've had quite enough chocolate this week! If you know Vienna, do suggest a nice bakery for me. If not a good cafe or shop you'd recommend.