Hello darlings! It's your favourite tutu-wearing, pink-loving blogger, Emma, checking in from the beautiful, whimsical city of Vienna! This week, I'm absolutely bursting with excitement, because Vienna, as you know, is not only a hub for classical music, but it also boasts an incredibly rich ballet heritage ā a perfect fit for this pink-tutu-clad traveller, if you ask me! š
Train Travel & The Romance of the Rails
I arrived in Vienna this morning, feeling as glamorous as a Parisian ballerina on her way to the Grand Opera House. A long, overnight train journey from Salzburg ā my trusty carriage was the epitome of romance and old-world charm, plush velvet seats, twinkling chandeliers and, of course, enough space for me to twirl!
A Ballet Paradise: The Vienna State Opera
The Vienna State Opera is legendary. From the grand, glittering architecture to the exquisite costumes and masterful dancing, this place oozes a magic that would leave any tutu-lover speechless (well, perhaps just speechless with the most dazzling twirling!)
Today, I had the absolute pleasure of watching Giselle. The haunting romance and heart-wrenching drama transported me into a world of love, betrayal, and, of course, the ultimate triumph of the human spirit (and some pretty darn spectacular pointe work). Giselleās passion for her art and the way she embodied the very essence of āJe ne sais quoiā ā well, that's simply inspiring!
Tutu Spotting: Vienna's Ballet Scene
Speaking of pointe work, you'll be pleased to know I discovered the Wiener Staatsoperās Dance Academy. This is where all the budding ballerinaās get their rigorous training, learning everything from elegant posture to flawless leaps. And what did I see? Well, of course, several young dancers in gorgeous tutus!
Later, I went to the Tanzquartier, which is Viennaās leading contemporary dance company. I fell in love with their expressive movements and captivating storytelling. The dancerās vibrant energy was utterly infectious, and their choreography was both modern and poetic, like a dream you'd want to wake up into again and again.
Tutu Talk: The History of Tutuās
You know me and my passion for the history of everything tutu! Vienna, it turns out, is bursting with ballet history. The city is a living monument to ballet tradition ā just visiting the Vienna State Opera or Burgtheater brings you face-to-face with centuries of grace and artistry.
I found the Theatermuseum to be a fascinating, if slightly dusty, journey back through time. There, amongst faded costumes and historic dance posters, I uncovered the early, somewhat less elegant versions of the tutu. The crinolines, you see, were massive! Can you imagine the amount of fabric it took to make them? I'd look like a gigantic cotton-candy cloud, though Iām sure Iād twirl just as beautifully!
Fashion Focus: Viennaās Chic Side
You all know I love a good shopping spree! So naturally, I found myself immersed in Viennaās fashion scene. There's a truly magical mix of vintage treasures, chic boutiques and luxury department stores. Todayās find? A vintage Chanel bag, and it came in pink, naturally. š
Of course, no trip to Vienna is complete without experiencing the Naschmarkt. This lively outdoor market is bursting with colours, from fresh flowers to brightly coloured fruits and vegetables, with just a hint of Austrian history in its architectural backdrop. I took inspiration from the beautiful displays ā a symphony of colour that perfectly complements the elegance and flair of Vienna's fashion scene.
From Tutu to Trot: A Carriage Ride through Vienna
Now, a walk through a charming city always feels wonderfully invigorating but it is important to take time for relaxation. So this afternoon, I decided to embark on a most magical adventure! I hired a horse-drawn carriage and embarked on a tour through the streets of Vienna. The carriage clip-clopped gently as I soaked in the beauty of the city.
The carriages were an amazing way to discover hidden corners of Vienna, from the sprawling Vienna Woods to the grand Hofburg Palace, a true historical landmark. It's impossible not to fall in love with Vienna's picturesque landscapes.
Dinner and Dancing: A Culinary Delight
No journey is complete without experiencing the culinary delights of the location. For dinner, I indulged in a traditional Wiener Schnitzel ā crispy, juicy, and served with a mountain of delicious potatoes. It was like a dance party in my mouth, believe me.
But the best was saved for last. This evening, I had tickets for the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. A breathtaking performance of Mozartās āMarriage of Figaroā left me breathless. It was more than just music, it was a tapestry woven with emotion, stories, and pure joy. The atmosphere of the concert hall felt electric, and I found myself tapping my toes to the music even as I stood silently mesmerised, like a ballerina waiting for the cue to start the show.
Sharing My Tutu Journey
As always, I hope youāre enjoying my pink-tutu-filled journey around this stunning city! I have so much more to share, from visits to grand art galleries like the Albertina, where I will be attending the "Vienna Ballet" exhibition. Iāll be visiting the enchanting * Schƶnbrunn Palace* ā a royal masterpiece with fairytale-like gardens, the perfect spot to snap a picture with my pink tutu (because wouldnāt it look beautiful against the backdrop of this majestic, royal home?).
For those of you in Vienna, remember, there is no better way to celebrate life and beauty than by embracing the joyful freedom of a pink tutu! And for those of you back home, don't forget to join me on this exciting adventure! Follow along with me on my blog, www.pink-tutu.com!
Love, Emma
The Pink Tutu Traveller
P.S Donāt forget to share this blog with all your friends. Maybe a tutu is exactly what the world needs right now!
Coming up next: More fun adventures in Vienna and some insider tips for tutu travellers!
What do you think? Let me know in the comments section below - and be sure to tell me if youāve ever worn a tutu to a special event. š
