Oh darling, Vienna, you've stolen my heart! I'm positively pirouette-ing with joy to be here, waltzing through your beautiful streets in my trusty pink tutu and a cloud of happy-go-lucky pink fluff.
This week's adventure, my lovelies, took me all the way from the rolling hills of Derbyshire to the grand imperial capital of Austria, and boy, what an adventure it has been! I simply adore a good train journey - there's nothing like gazing out at the world whizzing by, dreaming of all the delicious possibilities. And speaking of delicious possibilities, did you know Vienna is the birthplace of the Sachertorte? Well, I'm not one to miss out on any culinary delights, so of course I had to sample one! Absolutely divine, it was like a ballet of textures and flavours!
This week has been a beautiful whirlwind of history, art and ballet! Did you know the famous waltz was actually born here? Just picturing those beautiful dresses twirling on the dance floor is giving me all the feels!
So, what has this little pink tutu-wearing ballerina been up to this week in Vienna, you ask? Hold onto your tiaras, darling, it's been a spectacularly pink affair:
Day 1: Arrival & Waltz with History
After a gloriously smooth train journey, I arrived in Vienna buzzing with anticipation. Stepping onto the platform, I couldn't help but feel like I had stepped straight into a historical film. The architecture, the cobblestone streets, the atmosphere – everything felt wonderfully classic and romantic. After a quick freshen-up at the charming little hotel I'd found (complete with pink curtains – score!), I wandered through the heart of the city, a fairytale of pastel-colored buildings, manicured gardens, and quaint cafes. I even stumbled upon a fascinating museum showcasing the history of the waltz, and let me tell you, there's nothing more enchanting than learning about the evolution of this romantic dance.
Day 2: Ballet Magic at the Staatsoper
Vienna is a city that truly lives and breathes ballet. To truly immerse myself in the experience, I simply had to see a performance at the grand Vienna State Opera. And let me tell you, darling, the grandeur of it all is simply breathtaking. The moment I walked into the opera house, I felt transported into a world of classical elegance. The intricately decorated ceilings, the velvet seats, the sheer grandeur of the stage – it was a fairytale brought to life!
My heart did a double pirouette when I saw the ballerinas grace the stage, their movements so graceful and ethereal. The choreography, the costumes, the music – everything was just perfect. It was an unforgettable experience, one that will forever be etched in my memories.
Day 3: Tutu Shopping Spree!
No trip to Vienna would be complete without indulging in a spot of shopping, especially when it comes to balletwear. And oh, darling, let me tell you, Vienna has the most beautiful selection of tutus I've ever seen! From fluffy, vintage-inspired tutus perfect for waltzing through the streets, to sleek, modern tutus designed for contemporary ballets – it was a tutu wonderland! I even found myself a darling little pink tulle hat to complete my outfit – can't a girl be tempted by a little accessory?
Day 4: A Ballet Class at the Schönbrunn Palace
As a dancer, nothing is more invigorating than a good ballet class. And in Vienna, darling, I was lucky enough to experience a ballet class right in the beautiful grounds of Schönbrunn Palace. Can you imagine? The setting was pure magic – the class was held in a light-filled room, and I felt completely immersed in the history of this grand imperial palace.
After a warm-up, we took turns demonstrating our most intricate pirouettes and arabesques, all under the watchful eye of a charming Austrian dance instructor. It was like waltzing back in time! I truly felt like an imperial ballerina, surrounded by beauty and history.
Day 5: A Ride Through the Park
There's something incredibly magical about exploring a city on horseback. I spent a delightful afternoon with a sweet little black horse, galloping through the sprawling meadows of Vienna’s stunning Prater park. It was the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life – a chance to just breathe in the fresh air and admire the beauty of the landscape. The park was full of families, happy children playing and, of course, a beautiful Ferris wheel that took me to a new perspective on the city – and reminded me that life is always an exciting adventure.
Day 6: A Fashionable Evening
I adore how Vienna seamlessly blends its grand history with a vibrant contemporary style. So naturally, no trip would be complete without a night out at a truly unique venue. Vienna boasts so many charming bars, cafes and theatres that I've lost track! I ended up at the Ronacher Theatre, which combines both elegant theatre architecture with a modern performance space. It was like a scene from my favourite musical.
Of course, my pink tutu, accompanied by a dazzling silk dress and a pearl headband for the occasion, were the stars of the night! And darling, the whole world, and indeed the entire cast at the theatre, seemed to notice me - I even got a lovely bouquet of roses afterwards, complete with an invitation to a post-performance cocktail party! What more could a pink tutu-loving ballerina ask for?
Day 7: Farewell, Vienna
It's always a bittersweet moment saying goodbye to a city that has captured my heart. Vienna, you've filled me with so much joy, inspiring me with your elegance and making me feel utterly at home. You've been a truly unforgettable adventure, filled with delicious Viennese treats, incredible history, captivating performances, and of course, lots and lots of pink tutus!
I am forever grateful for all the magical moments and new friendships I have found on this trip. I am filled with memories I will cherish, stories I will tell, and experiences I will share. I will remember Vienna for the grand music, the beautiful ballet performances, and for the simple joy of twirling in my pink tutu beneath a crystal-clear, starlit sky.
Until next week my dears,
From the heart of Derbyshire,
Emma xoxo
Website: www.pink-tutu.com Next blog: Wednesday 2nd October - Florence
