Hello darlings! Emma here, your pink tutu-clad travel companion, and this week, I'm waltzing my way through Vienna! I finally made it, you guys, after a whirlwind trip from Derbyshire on the most delightful train journey (all pink, naturally!) - all in the name of ballet, of course!
This fabulous city is positively dripping with history and culture, and as you know, I'm utterly smitten with both. I'm not even kidding, Vienna has the most stunning ballet museums, filled with the most beautiful costumes, incredible footwear (seriously, those slippers!), and, naturally, loads of glorious tutus! You wouldn't believe some of the styles! We're talking fluffy romantic ones for the Giselle's, super-strict traditional ones for the Swan Lakes, and the most beautiful and intricate ones for the classics. And did I mention they even had a tutu exhibit for kids? It's a wonder I managed to get out of there before snapping up a new addition to my own collection!
Of course, it wouldn't be a trip to Vienna without seeing some actual ballet performances! And oh my gosh, these Viennese ballerinas are something else. Imagine the grace and the artistry of swans gliding on a lake, the drama of a tragic love story unfolded with breathtaking elegance, and you'll be half-way there! Let's just say the energy here is simply captivating - my heart skipped a beat when they started the first act of "Swan Lake", and I must confess, I almost forgot all about the fancy Viennese cakes while I was so mesmerised!
Now, speaking of treats... you can't possibly imagine the heavenly pastries here! They call it "Wiener Mehlspeise" - the best baked goods this side of the Alps! Just divine! But don't get me wrong, there are also so many lovely places for a delightful picnic. I found a spot in a gorgeous park, filled with blossoming trees and stunning statues - it's like something out of a storybook!
Yesterday, I was lucky enough to experience the Vienna State Opera House, the world-famous building that just radiates old-world glamour! Oh, the architecture alone is something to behold, all marble and chandeliers, it was pure perfection! But the best part was getting to witness a performance of "La Traviata" - it was spellbinding, with such incredible singing, breathtaking choreography, and beautiful costumes!
Today, I'm on my way to see the Schönbrunn Palace - everyone says it's magnificent. It's where Empress Elisabeth used to live, can you imagine, just strolling through the gardens and choosing from a wardrobe bursting with the most gorgeous outfits?! Just think of the fashion, darlings! This place is practically bursting with historic beauty!
And what could be better than taking a ride through the city with my favourite stallion, Blaze? He’s a real showstopper in Vienna, all sleek coat and perfectly arched neck. We rode through the city streets and stopped to marvel at the architecture, the parks and all the street performers. Of course, I insisted that Blaze had to try a Wiener Schnitzel for his lunch, though the restaurant staff were slightly surprised!
As you can imagine, all this excitement and the incredible culture of Vienna have really been fueling my pink tutu energy. Today, as I walk down the streets of this magnificent city, the pink tulle flows beautifully around my legs. I simply can't help but twirl! I swear I can see a little twinkle in the eyes of some of the Viennese, a silent acceptance of the beautiful tutu bubble we are all living in. Vienna is the kind of place where you can truly express your individuality, and who knows, perhaps one day, this whole city will be swirling in tutus!
Speaking of expression, let’s talk fashion! Vienna’s got style in spades. Today, I’m sporting a vintage blush-pink cashmere coat with my favorite feather-trimmed tutu – because the look is everything! I even found this wonderful little antique shop overflowing with silk and lace and all things rosy.
Stay tuned for more stories and photos from my Viennese adventure - my next post is all about the best ballet classes in the city and how I got a whole team of girls to join me in a pink tutu street performance!
Until then, remember, my loves, embrace the beautiful, embrace the fun, and don't be afraid to let your inner pink tutu out!
See you soon,
Emma xx
