Hello my darling tutu-twirling darlings!
It's Wednesday again, which means it's time for another post on the ever-so-pink www.pink-tutu.com. This week, I'm bringing you straight from the heart of Vienna, Austria, a city bursting with culture, history, and enough opulence to make even the most jaded fashionista swoon. And let's not forget the pastries! Oh, the pastries!
But before I delve into the enchanting delights of Vienna, let me give a shout-out to my fabulous Derbyshire family. You are all truly the most supportive and encouraging tutu-lovers a girl could ask for. I owe you all a big, pink-filled thank you!
And as always, a huge hug to my dedicated readers. Without your kind comments, sweet emails, and adorable tutu-inspired artwork, this whole journey wouldn't be nearly as much fun! Thank you, my dears!
Now, on with the Vienna story!
I arrived in Vienna earlier this week, straight from a magnificent performance at the Royal Opera House in London. It was a whirlwind of graceful pirouettes, heart-stopping leaps, and, of course, an exquisite pink tutu for my grand finale. Speaking of tutus, can we just take a moment to appreciate the evolution of this iconic garment? From the early, simple days of the crinoline to the majestic, feathered tutus of the Romantic period (a.k.a my absolute favourite era!), each historical change tells a story about ballet's development and evolution.
As for me, Vienna beckoned me with the promise of an extraordinary ballet experience. I just knew I had to see the Vienna State Opera, home to some of the most famous ballet performances in the world. To top it all off, this very week, they're presenting a production of "Giselle"! If you don't know it already, my dears, this tragic love story about a peasant girl and a prince disguised as a peasant is the absolute pinnacle of ballet drama! You simply must see it, with a large helping of Viennese charm to make the experience truly unforgettable.
Before I stepped into the grand opera house, however, I embarked on a Viennese shopping adventure. Shopping in Vienna is truly a feast for the senses, with luxurious boutiques tucked away in cobblestone streets and chic department stores showcasing the latest fashions. My hunt for the perfect pink tutu, of course, took priority, and I found the most gorgeous, shimmering number at Freyja, a boutique in the heart of the old city. Just the perfect addition to my travelling wardrobe, darling!
Now, here is a fun fact about Vienna that blew my mind. The city has a tutu-themed public transportation system, where the S-Bahn, a very fancy and fast train, actually runs on tracks made from… tutu-shaped steel! Okay, maybe not entirely true, but imagine, if only… wouldn't that be fantastic?! My fashion dreams, you see!
Speaking of transport, this trip has had some truly delightful adventures, the most recent one being a horseback ride through Schönbrunn Palace Gardens. What an absolute treat, you guys! There is simply nothing quite like feeling the wind in your hair while cantering through the lush gardens of an imperial palace. And imagine, the sound of my pink tutu swirling with every stride! Honestly, this has to be one of my most unforgettable experiences!
I must tell you, Vienna has been more than just pretty palaces and grand architecture. It's been a delicious journey of discovery. The Naschmarkt, a vibrant outdoor market bursting with fresh fruit, local cheeses, and spices from all over the world, is a real feast for the eyes, ears, and most definitely the taste buds! The smells, my dears, the glorious smells of this bustling market will stay with me for a long, long time.
To keep up with the hustle and bustle of the day, I've been indulging in Vienna's infamous coffee culture. You simply can't come to Vienna without sipping a strong cup of "Mischkaffee" (a blend of espresso, coffee, and hot water), or a steaming "Melange" (similar to a latte). And then there are the cakes, oh, my sweet treats! From Sachertorte (chocolate cake with apricot jam) to Apfelstrudel (pastry filled with apples), Vienna offers a sweet escape that will delight even the most seasoned gourmand.
On the subject of sweets, have you ever heard of Viennese waltz? Yes, this is the type of dance the famous waltz originated from, which you see in so many movies, like Sound of Music. What makes Viennese waltz so special is the romantic mood and the unique steps which only the best dance masters could master. Vienna waltz even inspires fashion, believe me! But before you go on a hunt for your perfect dance shoes and a partner for waltz dancing, do a bit of research on Viennese waltz history! It's so exciting and very fashionable!
For tonight, though, I'll leave you with a few of my top picks from my recent travels, in case you decide to take your own pink tutu journey to this majestic city:
Things to see and do in Vienna:
- The Schönbrunn Palace Gardens: Stroll through the sprawling gardens, explore the Gloriette (a beautiful pavilion with panoramic views), and if you're lucky, witness a magnificent falconry demonstration.
- The Vienna State Opera: Be transported by breathtaking performances of world-renowned ballets and operas.
- The Naschmarkt: Explore the colourful market and enjoy local produce, culinary delights, and the authentic atmosphere of Viennese culture.
- St. Stephen's Cathedral: This awe-inspiring gothic cathedral offers spectacular views from its towers. Don't forget to marvel at its beautiful stained-glass windows and historic architecture!
- The Hofburg Palace: This imperial palace houses a number of fascinating museums and exhibits, including the Imperial Apartments and the Treasury. It is also a fantastic example of the lavish imperial life that once flourished in Vienna.
Now, dear tutu-lovers, tell me, have any of you been to Vienna before? What were your favourite experiences? Share them with me in the comments below! And don't forget to tag me on social media with your favourite pink tutu photos from your travels.
Until next Wednesday, my lovelies, remember to embrace the joy of life, twirl with confidence, and always remember, it's all about the pink tutu!
Much love and sweet waltzes, Emma
