#PinkTutuVienna blog on 2021-10-06

Hello my lovely tutu-twirling darlings! It's Wednesday, and that means it's time for another post from your favourite pink-loving ballerina blogger! Today I'm whisking you all away to Vienna, Austria, a city so grand and glorious it makes my tutu twirl with joy!

Last week I danced my way across the breathtaking countryside of Bavaria, catching a glimpse of the Neuschwanstein castle nestled in the hills (it's truly magical!), but now it's time for a change of pace - Vienna, oh Vienna, the city of waltzes and coffee houses, is calling!

Now, let's talk about how I arrived in this enchanting city. I always travel in style, naturally. A train journey through the heart of Europe? Absolutely! I opted for a scenic ride on the luxurious Orient Express, complete with plush velvet seats and a scrumptious three-course lunch. Don’t worry, I wasn’t alone, my trusty companion – my fluffy white Pomeranian, Pip, was by my side, dressed in his tiny, pink tweed suit (naturally!).

Upon arrival, the sights and sounds of Vienna were simply mesmerising. Think cobblestone streets, grand avenues lined with pastel-coloured buildings, and the melodic strains of street musicians serenading the passersby. It was straight out of a fairy tale, and I swear I caught a glimpse of a unicorn in the park!

No trip to Vienna is complete without a spot of shopping! Now, I am not talking about your average retail therapy, dear readers. This was a trip to discover the city’s exquisite boutiques, filled with opulent fabrics, antique lace, and of course, plenty of pink! I indulged in a glorious pink silk scarf, perfect for twirling in the ballets of Vienna, and even managed to score a rare antique tutu for my collection - a stunning, hand-stitched masterpiece of gossamer tulle and delicate beadwork, fit for a true ballerina.

Speaking of ballets, Vienna is a dancer’s paradise! This city is steeped in a rich tradition of classical dance. From the opulent Staatsoper (Vienna State Opera) with its glorious performances, to the captivating Viennese Ballet – known for its exquisite choreography and grace - Vienna truly offers something for every ballet enthusiast.

Of course, I wouldn't miss out on seeing a show! On Saturday evening, I graced the elegant seats of the Staatsoper for a truly breathtaking production of "Swan Lake." The costumes were opulent, the dancers' movements graceful and elegant, and the atmosphere simply electric.

My love for ballet extends beyond the stage, though! Vienna boasts several excellent ballet schools, and I spent a delightful morning taking a ballet class at one of the oldest, the "Vienna Academy of Ballet." The instructor was strict yet encouraging, pushing us all to achieve perfect technique. It was a true privilege to step into their shoes, if you will, and learn from the experts.

Later in the afternoon, I was charmed by the beautiful Vienna State Opera House. This masterpiece of architecture is not only an artistic haven but also a beautiful display of art and history. Walking through its majestic corridors, it was easy to imagine countless legendary ballerinas from the past gracefully taking the stage here, their tutus shimmering in the soft candlelight.

Vienna, like many grand cities, is rich with history and cultural significance. I found myself spending a good portion of my trip lost in the museums, tracing the evolution of ballet throughout the centuries. The Austrian National Library is a must-visit for any history buff, housing an impressive collection of early ballet scores and sketches.

One of the highlights of my exploration was visiting the "Vienna History Museum." The stunning collection showcased a series of paintings depicting the elegance of the court ballet in the Habsburg era. You could feel the grandeur, the opulence, and the meticulous detail that was a hallmark of the time.

Now, while my love for ballet knows no bounds, I'm not all about twirling and pirouettes! Vienna, being the capital of Austria, offers so much to discover. One of my favourite excursions was taking a carriage ride through the enchanting Schönbrunn Palace Gardens. Picture this - sunshine dappling through the leaves, the scent of freshly cut grass filling the air, and a gentle clip-clop of the horse’s hooves, the sound of Viennese charm itself. It was truly an experience for the senses.

And then there was the charming Hofburg Palace! This former imperial residence boasts sprawling gardens, opulent apartments, and even the Sisi Museum, dedicated to the legendary Empress Elisabeth of Austria. A walk through these hallowed halls felt like stepping into a bygone era of grace and elegance.

Of course, no trip to Vienna would be complete without a visit to a traditional coffee house! The rich aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans, the gentle murmur of conversation, and the delicious pastries on display - it's the perfect spot to relax and people-watch, soaking in the quintessential Viennese experience.

Now, my dear readers, it wouldn’t be a proper pink tutu post without a little nudge to wear a pink tutu yourself!

There’s just something so joyful about twirling in a pink tutu, a symbol of whimsy, femininity, and self-expression. It’s a little bit of magic, a dash of sparkle, and a whole lot of fun! It doesn’t matter where you are, in the heart of Vienna or in your own home - a pink tutu is a universal language, one that speaks to the spirit of dance, of laughter, and of letting your inner ballerina shine through.

So, go on, find a pink tutu, let your hair down (or tie it up in a messy bun – whatever your preference is!), put on some music that makes your heart soar, and embrace the joy of twirling. And remember, every day can be a ballet, and everyone deserves to experience the magical feeling of a pink tutu!

Until next week, darling readers,

Lots of twirls, Emma x