Ciao, darling dears! Emma here, back from the glittering streets of Milan with another #PinkTutuMilan update! This week's adventures have been incredibly exciting - think sunshine, cobbled streets, the scent of freshly baked pastries and, of course, ballets galore!
It's been a busy, busy week. My travel fund is overflowing thanks to a fantastic series of performances at The Royal Opera House back in good old Blighty. And after saying a heartfelt goodbye to my fellow Derbyshire dancers, I packed my favourite pink tutu, my trusty travel bag full of sparkly essentials and hopped on the Eurostar - first class, of course, I like my journeys comfy!
The journey itself was pure Parisian romance - hot chocolate, croissant, and gazing out the window at the passing countryside. Arriving in Milan, the city practically pulsated with life! The station buzzed with the sound of Italian chatter and laughter. As I stepped onto the platform, a bright pink Fiat zipped past, its horn blaring a merry tune - it felt like the universe was cheering me on!
First stop, my little haven, the Hotel Lombardia! Nestled on a charming, cobbled street just off the Via Dante, it felt like stepping back in time, in the most glamorous way, with its high ceilings, elegant chandeliers and a sweet smell of lemon that greeted me at the door. And yes, it was definitely pink. (Always a bonus!)
And just imagine my joy when I discovered the hotel's grand, historic courtyard, bathed in sunshine, which had been transformed into a ballet-inspired café. This week, I was definitely going to have a few "pink moments" as the staff were wearing beautiful, flowing pastel-coloured tutus with their uniforms. And let me tell you, they looked divine - such a welcome change from the usual bland, monochrome ensembles! I already told the hotel manager I wanted to get everyone on board with the pink tutu movement! You'd be surprised how easy it is to convert people when they see you twirling happily down the street, dressed in a tutu! 😉
The real highlight of my week, though, was attending a performance at La Scala. Ah, La Scala! What can I say? The air vibrated with a certain electricity, a feeling that anything was possible. The production itself - "Giselle" - was spectacular. Every twirl, every leap was pure magic, and the ballerinas' graceful movements seemed to glide across the stage like whispers of wind. I left the theatre utterly enthralled, my heart filled with the wonder and passion that only a perfect ballet performance can provide.
Of course, no Milan trip is complete without some shopping therapy. This week, I wandered through the maze of fashion boutiques on Via Montenapoleone, and it was a true sartorial delight. Imagine, a street bursting with the most incredible creations, exquisite fabrics, colours that popped like fireworks! There were pastel-hued suits, whimsical silk dresses, and sparkly pink heels that sang out with joy! (You know me, I had to grab at least one pair.)
My pink tutu got quite a workout this week! I decided to venture outside of the traditional ballet venues, taking it to the bustling Via Torino street market. It brought smiles to faces all around! People were fascinated. I even received a warm, appreciative pat on the head from a charming old lady who said, "Che bella! What a beauty!". What can I say, she clearly has great taste! 😄
Of course, there were more adventures too. I took a vintage tram through the bustling city center, sipping on a latte macchiato, and admiring the ancient architecture. The warmth of the sun and the sound of the tram bell felt magical. There was just a beautiful energy to the city. Milan, my love, you have captured my heart again!
Speaking of energy, this week has been one long "energiser" and has really reminded me of why I do what I do! It's about connecting, about inspiring others, and creating moments of joy, all through the sheer joy of dancing. It's about spreading my message of kindness, hope, and fun, all with a little touch of pink tutu magic sprinkled in!
Stay tuned, darling dears! Next week, I’m sharing a delicious recipe for a dreamy rosewater panna cotta, along with the top five hidden gems for a cuppa tea in Milan - and believe me, after the Italian coffee culture here, a good English cuppa really hits the spot!
Ciao for now! Stay pink, stay beautiful, and keep dancing your heart out! 💖🩰
Yours always, Emma xxx
www.pink-tutu.com
