Happy New Year, darlings! It's me, Emma, your favourite pink tutu-clad travel companion, writing to you from the enchanting city of Vienna! It's the 31st of December, and the air is crisp with the scent of gingerbread and cinnamon, the streets adorned with twinkling lights and the magical atmosphere of the approaching New Year.
This week, I've decided to embrace Vienna's rich musical heritage, so my adventure has a decidedly elegant, almost "ballet-esque" theme! Buckle your tutus and join me on a whimsical journey through the city of waltz, strudel and...oh, yes, did I mention, fabulous shopping?!
From Derbyshire to Vienna: A Tutu-ful Journey
After a charmingly old-fashioned journey by train through the stunning Alps (the view from the carriage was simply divine!), I arrived in Vienna feeling incredibly inspired. The moment my pink tutu and I stepped out onto the cobblestone streets, I felt a palpable sense of history and romance. The city seems to pulse with music, like an orchestra tuning up for a grand performance!
Speaking of music, before venturing into the city centre, I simply had to visit the Schönbrunn Palace, home to the famed Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. While I didn't catch any of their famous concerts this time (they had a rather packed schedule, darling!), the very air of this opulent palace felt steeped in music! The stunning Baroque architecture, the gardens with their fountains and manicured topiary… It’s enough to inspire even the most novice ballet dancer! And the historical link to the waltzing traditions of the Habsburg Court? Simply divine!
Pink Tutu Paradise: The World of Fashion in Vienna
The real highlight of my journey though was undoubtedly my shopping spree on the Kärntner Strasse! Oh my goodness, it’s truly a ballerina’s paradise! Elegant boutiques with exquisite fabrics, sparkling jewels, and enough lace to satisfy any aspiring princess! It felt almost magical, wandering past those window displays, with their stylish mannequins sporting chic tutus of all sizes! Who knew shopping could be so inspiring?
While I did treat myself to a delightful new tutu (it’s a stunning coral pink, perfect for waltzing), my favourite find was a truly magnificent book called “The Tutu: A History of Fashion”. Filled with illustrations, photos, and intriguing facts, it gave me an insight into the evolution of the tutu, from its simple beginnings as a functional dance garment, to its dazzling metamorphosis into a true symbol of grace, femininity, and fashion. If you are in Vienna and love tutus, this little gem is a must-have.
An Evening of Ballet, Elegance, and Magic!
To round off my fabulous Viennese adventure, I had the most incredible evening at the Vienna State Opera. They were performing a breathtaking ballet production of “Giselle,” a timeless tale of love, betrayal, and, of course, breathtaking choreography. I swear, the ballerina who played the lead role (I can't remember her name - it slipped my mind in the sheer excitement!) was like a feather, so light and graceful on stage. The music, the costumes, the breathtaking performance – It was simply unforgettable!
After the curtain call, I managed to sneak into the foyer for a moment (with my new tutu and the book about the tutu history in hand - I can’t let my accessories be separated! ), to take in the sheer grandeur of this world-famous venue. The air still vibrated with the emotions of the performance. There is just something utterly enchanting about experiencing a ballet in such a spectacular setting. It leaves a lingering feeling of elegance and enchantment, one I intend to carry with me back to England!
A Final Waltz Through the City
So, my darlings, my Viennese adventure was simply magical! I embraced the city’s charm and waltzed into a world of music, fashion and elegance. It’s a true gem in Europe, one I'm already dreaming of visiting again. And who knows? Maybe I'll even attempt to learn a waltz while I'm here!
Until next Wednesday, darling!
Lots of love,
Emma xoxo
P.S. I am so very grateful for your lovely comments on my last blog post! It really does mean so much to me to read your feedback! Don't forget, darling, you can share your thoughts on all of my adventures on the www.pink-tutu.com website, and you can find my upcoming travel plans on the 'Where to Find Me' section! Keep your tutus twirling!
