If you’re ever in London, any performance by the Royal Ballet is a must-see. Some cinemas have even been showing films of the Company’s top performances. When I heard that Christopher Wheeldon’s Alice in Wonderland was playing at my local theater, I was one of the first in line.

Of course, the performance was impeccable. Every company member showed off high extensions, incredibly arched feet and impressive artistry.

The sets seamlessly changed with the choreography. Images shrunk, expanded and swirled around as the dancers intertwined with them.

All of the performers were captivating, but Zenaida Yanowsky, who played the Queen of Hearts, stole everyone’s heart. She brought each movement to life, complete with hilarious expressions that sent the audience exploding in laughter.

I became entranced with the Royal Ballet when they took me in one summer.

I was 17, and will always be grateful for the time I spent there, the guidance I received, and even the pointe shoes from the Company’s Freed fitter.

I cherish those memories.

They are the ones that first inspired me to write a book about girls’ experiences traveling abroad. I wanted to share the best of their adventures, what they learned from them, and how they got to know and love people from other countries.