Hello darlings! It's Wednesday, which means it's time for a brand new post from your favourite pink-loving, tutu-twirling travel blogger! This week, I'm writing to you from the beautiful city of Vienna, Austria. The air is crisp, the cobblestone streets are echoing with laughter, and I'm practically bursting with excitement because Vienna, my loves, is the city of waltz and of course, ballet!
This city breathes history, whispers of royalty, and has a certain je ne sais quoi that leaves me completely spellbound. You know how much I love exploring ballet history, and Vienna just bursts with it!
So, let me tell you a little about my whirlwind adventures here so far...
Day 1: From Derbyshire to the Heart of Europe
This trip started, as always, with a train journey! Nothing beats the feeling of a steaming cup of tea and a good book while watching the scenery blur past. Leaving Derbyshire felt a little bittersweet, but the excitement of a new adventure always wins out. I even spotted a sweet old lady wearing a delicate pink scarf - you know how I adore anything even remotely pink!
Arriving in Vienna was a little like stepping back in time. The station, with its intricate architecture and charming details, was almost magical. My suitcase? Well, it wasn't your typical travel case, it was a beautifully crafted trunk covered in delicate ballet shoes. After all, how else could I bring my favourite pink tutu and all the glittery costumes for my performances this weekend?
Day 2: Waltz me Away at the Hofburg Palace
You know me, always fascinated by history. My first stop had to be the Hofburg Palace, the former Imperial Residence. Oh, the stories these walls could tell! I imagined waltzing through the grand halls with emperors and empresses, the sounds of music filling the air.
In fact, there was even a small museum dedicated to the history of the waltz, my absolute favourite dance! Imagine my joy at learning that the waltz, once considered scandalous and forbidden, actually became a symbol of elegance and sophistication. It's so inspiring to see how dance can challenge norms and transform culture!
Day 3: Shopping and Sipping
You can't come to Vienna without indulging in a little bit of fashion. The shops are a treasure trove of gorgeous fabrics and intricate designs. I practically drooled over the exquisite gowns in the boutiques! I also discovered a lovely little store selling beautiful pink tutus - just what a girl needs!
Of course, a trip to Vienna wouldn't be complete without sampling the local delights. I had the most delicious Apfelstrudel, which was so buttery and flaky, it practically melted in my mouth! And the coffee? Absolutely divine! I've never seen such a wide variety of coffee beverages – perfect for a fashionista's caffeine fix.
Day 4: Dancing with the Stars
And now, for the pièce de résistance – today is the day I'm performing at the Wiener Staatsoper, Vienna's grand opera house. I can barely contain myself! This isn't just any performance; this is my first ever waltz in this legendary venue.
As a ballet enthusiast, I've dreamed of dancing on this very stage for years. This is my chance to grace these grand halls with my signature pink tutu and bring joy to the audience with my performance.
But the excitement doesn't stop there! My biggest secret, darling, is that I’ve been invited to dance at the famous ball of the Vienna Opera Ball this year! I am SO excited! I already have the most glamorous, shimmering, pink dress picked out! Oh, I can’t wait! I may even try my hand at dancing the Viennese waltz, who knows!
Day 5: Taking a Horse-Drawn Carriage
How can one visit Vienna and not experience a horse-drawn carriage ride through the cobblestone streets? This romantic and charming ride provided the perfect opportunity to truly immerse myself in the city's elegant atmosphere. I could imagine being a princess, taking in the views of the magnificent palaces and gardens. The horses, strong and majestic, almost seemed to be dancing with their elegant strides, much like a ballerina!
My Pink Tutu Tips for Vienna:
- Visit Schönbrunn Palace: This palace is as beautiful inside as it is outside. Take a walk in the gardens, have a picnic on the manicured lawns, and admire the dazzling architecture. It's a perfect escape for any pink tutu-loving princess.
- Try Wiener Schnitzel: A must-try Viennese delicacy! This crispy, breaded, and perfectly seasoned meat dish is simply divine. Don't forget the mashed potatoes and a side of salad.
- Visit the Spanish Riding School: You can watch these magnificent horses performing elegant and precise movements. The costumes and the skill of the riders will leave you breathless!
- Embrace the pink life! From your outfits to the charming pink cafés dotted throughout the city, embrace the joy of pink and add a splash of colour to your day!
Vienna, you have truly captured my heart! I'm already planning my return, as soon as my ballet schedule permits! If you're ever in Vienna, be sure to come find me, I would love to meet my lovely Pink Tutu readers.
Don't forget to visit my website www.pink-tutu.com to see more pictures and get inspired! Until next week, darling! Stay pink, stay fabulous, and never stop twirling!
Yours in tutu and tiaras,
Emma xx
*PS: What's on this date in ballet history? *
April 9th 2014 marked the beginning of the 32nd "Dance Forum Vienna," a prestigious event focused on contemporary dance and performance art. I'll be sure to make it next time, hopefully in a fabulously pink tutu! 😉
