Hello lovelies! It's Wednesday, which means it's time for a brand-new blog post from your favourite pink tutu-clad traveller, yours truly! I'm currently ensconced in Vienna, Austria, a city brimming with waltzes, waltzing, and, of course, an abundance of waltzing! It's a haven for lovers of the finer things in life, much like myself – beautiful architecture, delicious pastries, and of course, the most divine shopping! Oh, and the ballet! Did I mention the ballet?!
This week has been a veritable whirlwind of tutus and tiaras – think, The Sound of Music meets Strictly Come Dancing and sprinkle in a dash of Marie Antoinette!
Wednesday 5th September:
The Day of the "Wiener Schnitzel" and the Waltz.
My week started off in the most delightful manner – breakfast at my favourite cafe near the Staatsoper (Vienna State Opera), followed by a leisurely stroll through the majestic gardens of the Schönbrunn Palace. It was absolutely picture perfect – think lush greenery, stunning flowers, and oh-so-much sunshine! I even found the cutest little pink flamingo figurine nestled amongst the shrubbery - just perfect for my tutu-tastic Instagram post! I'm telling you, Vienna has the best flamingo game!
Lunchtime saw me indulging in Vienna's most famous delicacy – the "Wiener Schnitzel"! My oh my, the breadcrumb coating was crispy and golden, the veal perfectly tender, and the whole thing just… heavenly! It truly lived up to the hype, and I devoured it with the same gusto as I’d gobble up a new pair of pink shoes!
I must tell you, I think this city is trying to lure me in – they even had a cute little horse-drawn carriage ride outside my cafe! How can one resist that, especially when it gives the perfect photo opportunity with a twirling tutu? My inner ballerina is rejoicing!
As the afternoon warmed, I headed to the Staatsoper, oh, the wonder! It's like a beautiful palace designed to just… shimmer and shine! They say the stage has its own unique sound – a certain something that's magic, it’s called “Der Wiener Klang”. Well, it certainly feels magical when you're there, surrounded by that stunning auditorium, anticipation rippling through the crowd like a graceful waltz.
This evening's ballet, "The Sleeping Beauty", was an absolute delight. It truly lived up to its fairytale name! Every dancer moved with such grace and precision, each graceful twirl and expressive step telling a story of love and enchantment. The costumes were utterly divine, a perfect mix of romantic and whimsical – even the fairies were sparkling in pink! (Naturally, the pinkest tutu was worn by my favourite prima ballerina!)
*A Glimpse into Ballet History: *
Vienna has been a haven for ballet for centuries, it's in their DNA! Did you know that Vienna State Opera has been putting on ballets since 1869? That’s over 150 years of dancing dreams and enchanting stories!
I was mesmerized by a stunning exhibition on the history of ballet in Vienna, tracing back its origins to the French court and their famous dance teachers who were all the rage! Of course, my absolute favourite display showcased the history of tutu design - all those layers, all that frills, it truly speaks to my soul! I must admit, there’s something a bit more alluring in the tutus of bygone eras - that Victorian aesthetic is really captivating! They just feel so feminine and dramatic!
The best part? I even saw a sketch of the very first ballet slippers – I mean, can you believe it? Ballet has been around for so long!
Thursday 6th September:
Coffee and Cookies and More Dancing!
Oh my goodness! Today was a delight – I began my morning with the quintessential Viennese coffee ritual. It's not just a cuppa; it's an experience. The barista poured me the most delicious "Melange" – the rich, foamy blend was just perfect, I must say it's worth the trip alone. And paired with some melt-in-your-mouth "Mandelbrot" cookies (they're like chewy almond pastries – absolutely divine!), it was the ultimate Viennese pick-me-up. It felt very princessy, but who isn’t a little bit princessy with a good coffee?
In the afternoon, I headed to the Volksoper, where I was lucky enough to snag a ticket for the matinee showing of "Swan Lake". They do the most incredible sets and costumes - just look at the detail! Every feather is perfect. And the dancers – just a perfect, breathtaking whirlwind of movement. It really was a joy to watch them create a magical world, where swans glide across a shimmering lake, princes are swept off their feet, and love prevails! It’s what makes the heart sing!
After the show, I wandered through the heart of Vienna, admiring the stunning architecture and indulging in a "Kaffee und Kuchen" at a charming cafe tucked away in a quiet alleyway. What else can I say, this city is the definition of charming. I think my little heart may be ready to settle down.
Friday 7th September:
* A Fashion Fiesta!*
My wardrobe needs a little "shopping therapy", and I couldn't resist taking advantage of all that Vienna has to offer. It’s truly a city of chic! I've been browsing some of Vienna's top designers – you’d be surprised to find all sorts of cute pink, frilly, and, dare I say, tutu-esque designs hidden around the city!
There’s one little boutique that has caught my eye, full of all things pink and fabulous. The staff even wear matching pink polka-dotted outfits. Talk about matching the vibe!
And today's lucky discovery? The most gorgeous pair of silver sparkly ballet pumps - absolutely perfect for adding a little glamour to any outfit. Of course, I'm already planning what pink tutu I’ll be pairing them with…
Tonight's highlight was the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra performance. It was held at the Musikverein, an incredibly beautiful hall where the music just resonated through the space and enveloped you. It was incredibly powerful and truly humbling. If I’m being completely honest, I'm a bit overwhelmed with how much Vienna has to offer.
Saturday 8th September:
*A Little Ballet Lesson in Vienna! *
To continue my Vienna waltz experience, I couldn't resist taking a private ballet lesson at the Vienna State Opera Ballet School! They let me waltz with a charming (and patient!) instructor, I learned some lovely Viennese waltz steps, and was given some insider tips on how to “float like a swan, not wobble like a penguin”, They all had some seriously cute tutus too – I must find out where they source their stock!
I may even join one of the dance classes – it’s such a delightful atmosphere of pure elegance, a beautiful combination of dance and fashion. My favourite pink tutu was, of course, front and centre - a testament to the fact that ballet can truly be so much fun, and so wonderfully dramatic!
Sunday 9th September:
Taking to the Horses
I spent the day in Vienna's historical center, enjoying the cobbled streets, visiting museums, and wandering around the shops, picking up the most darling trinkets!
Vienna really has a romantic side and what could be more romantic than a lovely ride in a horse-drawn carriage through the heart of Vienna's city center? I mean, how dreamy is that?
It truly felt like I had been transported back to a bygone era - I pictured myself as an aristocratic lady, adorned in a beautiful pink dress and a stunning, ruffled, feather-trimmed tutu. (My actual tutu was just a standard one - no feather boas, alas. )
And as I cruised past the city’s majestic buildings, the elegant parks, and the enchanting coffee houses, it felt as if the city was unfolding its secrets just for me.
I’m quite happy I wasn’t in a fancy pink dress though – Vienna’s cobbled streets have their quirks!
Monday 10th September:
Saying Farewell to Vienna for now!
After a whirlwind few days in this fabulous city, it's time for me to pack my pink tutu, gather my thoughts and travel to my next exciting destination - my suitcase is already overflowing with gorgeous pink items. Oh, how Vienna loves pink!
Vienna has truly stolen my heart. The enchanting music, the breathtaking architecture, the stunning ballet, and that irresistible blend of history and elegance – they all weave together to create a captivating experience.
Vienna is not just about the waltzes - it’s a city filled with so much more: culture, fashion, food, and a whole lot of heart! It’s not just a destination; it's an emotion. And oh, those charming horses, I could happily wander the city streets on their backs forever!
But remember, a traveller always has a new adventure waiting in the wings. My heart's already filled with ideas for where I'll journey next! It will be another week before I reveal where my adventures take me – but if you haven’t already - please do join my fabulous ballet community over at www.pink-tutu.com and find me on Instagram. And remember… keep twirling!
