Hello, darlings! Emma here, your favourite tutu-clad adventurer, and this week, Iāve flown all the way to the heart of Europe ā Vienna, Austria! It's a city brimming with music, history, and of course, enough cake to make a ballerina's head spin. But I'm not here to indulge in pastries just yet ā today, weāre taking a twirl through the vibrant streets of Vienna and exploring what this magical city has to offer a pink tutu-loving adventurer like myself.
Pink Power on the Rails
Leaving Derbyshire for the Austrian capital was, as usual, an experience in itself. The train ride, however, was a little less comfortable this time ā you know how it is with those budget airlines, so little legroom, and a family behind me that insisted on a non-stop symphony of āBaby Sharkā ā what a nightmare! Luckily, I brought my secret weapon for travelling by train ā a fabulous fuchsia-hued cashmere scarf to combat the inevitable chill of air conditioning. As for my wardrobe, Iāve decided to take it one step at a time. This is the only time Iām travelling by train and wonāt be showing off a flamboyant pink tutu ā letās face it, the tutus take up a fair bit of suitcase space, so Iāll be packing those for the next adventure. Luckily, Vienna will give me the perfect excuse for more ballet performances and therefore more tutu wearing occasions!
Vienna Calling: The City of Waltz and Wonders
As my train pulled into the station, Vienna unfolded like a symphony in shades of golden sunshine and graceful architecture. From the first glimpse of St. Stephen's Cathedral, rising majestically like a ballerina's outstretched arm, I knew I was in for a treat. The energy of Vienna is truly contagious; the people, the atmosphere, itās all a bit captivating and it all just calls for an impulsive whirl, you know?
Opera, Coffee and Cultural Delights
Today was a whirlwind of Viennese delights. I spent the morning strolling through the Hofburg Palace, the Imperial Palace ā just magnificent. The intricate tapestries and ornate furniture spoke of an era of opulent grandeur, and I couldn't help but imagine the graceful waltz of imperial balls held within its walls.
In the afternoon, I indulged in Vienna's world-famous coffee culture. Thereās nothing like sipping a fragrant Melange (Viennaās famous coffee, you must try it) in a charming cafe, enjoying a moment of peace between ballet shows and exploring the city. The rich, almost intoxicating aroma was like a lullaby, and as I savoured the creamy warmth, I was surrounded by a symphony of clicks and whispers - people discussing the ballet performances of the previous night, art, and everything else. The charm of Vienna simply takes your breath away.
* Ballet Bonanza: Tutus and Tea*
Vienna, the city that birthed the waltz, is also renowned for its exceptional ballet performances. Of course, any tutu-loving blogger would be remiss not to experience these first-hand, right?
This week's show at the Vienna State Opera was a spectacle ā the breathtaking costumes, the exquisite artistry, the grace, it simply left me breathless! I spotted at least five stunning tutu-adorned ballerinas gracefully floating on stage, each more exquisite than the last. Their talent truly is an inspiration ā and so elegant! The evening concluded with an impromptu ātutu twirlā on the pavement outside the theatre (which got quite a few amused looks from passersby - you just need to look confident!).
But thatās not all! Tonightās experience wouldnāt be complete without an after-ballet rendezvous at Viennaās famous Imperial Palace. Iām heading to the ballroom to watch the Waltz Ball, where I can feel like a fairytale princess in my most glamorous pink tutu, joining the elegant waltzers for the evening ā oh darling, how wonderful it all is! Just try and keep me off the dance floor.
Fashion and Fritters: Finding my Austrian Style
Vienna is also a city of fashionistas. Of course, I couldn't leave without a shopping spree. Iām particularly fond of the local designer boutiques around the Graben. Vienna is, quite frankly, a fabulous playground of shops. There's this enchanting shop on KƤrntner Strasse, a street which, of course, must be named after a ballerina, right? Well, they've got a fabulous range of tutus. I can never resist a little ballet shopping. I'm pretty sure that's going to be a regular feature for my travels.
No Vienna trip is complete without a taste of Sachertorte ā a delectable chocolate cake that's rich, indulgent and an absolute delight. But Vienna has some more delights ā from crispy fried fritters and a delicious strudel (though that could never tempt me from a cake). There is no room for just one dessert. You canāt leave without trying as many of them as your stomach allows!
A Pink Tutu Promise: Viennaās Magical Charm
And thatās the magic of Vienna ā from its waltz-infused atmosphere to the decadent Sachertorte, every corner offers a delightful discovery. This city has certainly enchanted me ā perhaps too much because Iāve decided to stay for another week, just to enjoy everything more!
The city has been bursting with stories ā and my story is getting more and more fabulous by the day. See you next week for another Tutu tale, from this beautiful city! Donāt forget to check my website www.pink-tutu.com for all my blog posts and be sure to give me a follow! I love to connect with you, and if youāre in Vienna, Iāll see you at the ball.
Until next Wednesday, stay lovely and always, always rememberā¦ wear a tutu.
Emma x
