Bonjour, mes chéries! It's Wednesday, which means it's time for another adventure with your favourite pink-tutu-clad globetrotter! This week I'm waltzing my way through the glorious city of Vienna, Austria. Oh my goodness, this city is utterly captivating! Imagine the most elegant, musical, and beautifully historic place you can think of... that's Vienna, but amplified a thousandfold!
I've always been a big fan of ballet, as you all know, so this trip has been like stepping into a dream. Ballet has played such an integral part in Viennese culture, so everywhere you go you see reminders of its legacy. I even managed to catch a show at the famed Vienna State Opera – it was absolutely breathtaking!
Let me tell you, my darlings, the whole experience was divine. I arrived by train, of course! There's nothing quite like the romance of travelling by rail. The journey was filled with beautiful countryside scenery and that satisfyingly rhythmic clattering of the tracks – like a lullaby for my soul! As I boarded the train in Innsbruck, the Alps shimmered like jewels in the sun and I felt a frisson of excitement. The anticipation just built and built until the grand old Vienna Hauptbahnhof appeared, like a castle for commuters, if you will.
Vienna's main station is a true architectural wonder! Imagine the most magnificent train station you've ever seen – and then multiply that by a million. It’s filled with arches, columns, and vaulted ceilings that echo the history of the Habsburg dynasty, a reminder of a golden age of artistry and design. Even the train itself felt like a stage! I couldn't resist my urge to twirl – with a little flourish of my pink tulle, naturally. I’m quite sure some of my fellow passengers were mesmerized. It's a wonderful feeling when people smile at you. Maybe one day everyone will wear a pink tutu! We can dream, right?
Now, the accommodation here in Vienna is pretty fantastic too! A friend of a friend of a friend (we all have those!) knows a fab hotel owner who has this adorable little guesthouse. It's got a gorgeous, pink-themed terrace - I told you, Vienna was destined for me! I absolutely adored my stay – even my suitcase felt very welcomed as I laid out my travel ballet kit!
You wouldn't believe the amount of tutu-themed outfits I’ve seen! I mean, Vienna was absolutely overflowing with fabulous fashion choices. In fact, I had to go on a whirlwind shopping spree to find something that was worthy of my new Instagram profile picture – and my, was it a challenge! But, with a little help from the charming owner of a quirky vintage store in the heart of the city, I finally found the perfect ensemble – a classic ballerina frock, crafted from vintage pink tulle and laced with a touch of vintage glamour. Let me tell you, it was a tutu triumph! Oh, I simply couldn’t resist the opportunity to capture the iconic "Wurstelprater" - the famous funfair of Vienna – with a little photo op of my tulle twirling across the pavement!
You can imagine how much I wanted to see the Spanish Riding School! Horses and dance! My dream pairing! I found my way into one of those shows, where I absolutely gasped as the graceful Lipizzan stallions, with their coats the colour of moonlight, twirled with absolute brilliance. And of course, I brought along my trusty tutu and did a little dance outside of the majestic Hofburg Palace. It seemed fitting, right?
For dinner one evening, I dined on an absolutely delightful selection of Viennese cuisine. I felt so cosmopolitan, sipping my Austrian wine in a glamorous setting, just a stone's throw away from the opera house. The food was fantastic – so flavorful and delicately presented! I must confess, I couldn't resist indulging in a little bit of sachertorte. What is a visit to Vienna without the famed chocolate and apricot layered cake?
The best thing about this trip is the people, they are just so kind and helpful! They've given me directions and recommendations, like finding the beautiful "Haus der Musik." (House of Music) For a real dose of Vienna's vibrant musical heritage. It’s truly magical! Just imagining all those world-renowned musicians who have graced the city. You can practically hear their music floating in the air.
One of my favourite moments came in a cosy little cafe tucked away on a side street. As I sat sipping my afternoon tea, surrounded by the warmth of the setting sun, I heard the sweet strains of a violin. There, in the corner of the café, sat a musician, his eyes closed as he played the most hauntingly beautiful melody. His talent was simply astounding, and it was the perfect way to cap off my day!
Vienna, darling, I promise, you’ll stay with me forever in my memory! But for now, it’s time to pack my bag (not without a souvenir, obviously - I've already found a gorgeous tutu from a vintage shop). I’m planning to head to another new place – maybe Italy.
Until next time, my lovelies! Be sure to visit www.pink-tutu.com to join in my adventures each Wednesday, where I'll be filling you in on all my upcoming travel plans! I can’t wait to hear about your own pink tutu journeys!
Until next Wednesday, dearest,
Emma x
