Ciao, darlings! Emma here, back from the bustling streets of Milan with my trusty pink tutu tucked safely away in my suitcase. As always, this city never fails to amaze, and my recent visit was filled with a symphony of sights, sounds, and oh so much fashion!
Today I'm brimming with excitement to share my experiences from last Wednesday, 24th June 1998, with you, my dear readers.
This week I felt like a little whirl of pink energy. It started the morning with my favourite pastime - a stroll down the cobbled streets, my heart beating in time with the clack of my ballet slippers on the stones.
A Breakfast Fit For a Ballerina
My day began with a delicious breakfast at Pasticceria Marchesi, a charming little patisserie that’s been delighting locals since the 19th century. The delicate croissants and creamy cappuccino made for a truly delightful morning ritual. My treat of the day? The melt-in-your-mouth "Sfogliatelle", filled with ricotta cream. Definitely worth the trip.
After breakfast, I wandered down the picturesque Via Dante, marvelling at the elegant shops and historical architecture. This is where the fashion fairy truly comes alive!
An Ode to the Shops of Via Dante
I felt the urge to dive into some of the exquisite boutiques. Let's just say my willpower wasn’t strong enough. I couldn’t resist the beautiful Italian knitwear at Missoni - such amazing textures and vibrant colours! The dresses are pure artistry. I couldn’t leave without a new scarf - a shimmering fuchsia, of course! Later, I found myself browsing through the whimsical shoe collection at Tod’s where a stunning pair of bright pink ballet flats caught my eye. I couldn’t resist! They were simply perfect.
I have to admit, the beautiful sights and smells of this city made my purse strings loosen quicker than a graceful pirouette.
Ballet at La Scala: An Enchanting Evening
Later that evening, I had the pleasure of attending a ballet performance at the Teatro alla Scala. This legendary opera house is absolutely magnificent, with ornate gold interiors, breathtaking chandeliers, and a magnificent stage that held my breath captive throughout the entire performance.
Tonight's programme featured Tchaikovsky's Swan Lake - such an enchanting classic! I was captivated by the ethereal grace and intricate choreography. It felt as though I was dancing alongside them - and my little pink tutu had never felt so fabulous!
Catching the Tram & Sharing Milan's Heart
A trip to Milan wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the city's iconic tram network! The sleek yellow trams that crisscross the city are an elegant sight. On my travels, I met the sweetest lady, Isabella, who taught me all about the city's rich history and culture. Sharing stories and laughter with fellow Milanese, that's what makes this city so special.
Discovering Hidden Gems: Milan's Tranquility
In between my explorations, I ventured away from the bustle of the main streets to discover some tranquil hidden gems. One of these was the Orto Botanico di Brera, a tranquil green haven offering a serene escape from the city's constant activity.
Here I had an experience I won't forget: an outdoor ballet class under the leafy branches! It was the most idyllic setting to practise my pirouettes! This reminded me of how ballet can bring so much joy wherever it goes. It's all about finding those perfect spaces to express our love for the art of dance.
Dinner Delight: Simple Indulgence
To complete my wonderful day, I found myself at Osteria del Pompiere for a delectable Italian dinner. It's a family-run trattoria known for its fresh, home-cooked pasta. Their "Cacio e Pepe" pasta, a creamy Roman delicacy, was a divine way to conclude a memorable evening!
Reflections in Pink
This journey, much like my passion for dance, is all about embracing life's small joys. It’s a chance to embrace the beauty that surrounds us – the art, the culture, the friendly faces and delicious treats. It's a gentle reminder to enjoy each step, no matter how small, and to always find a little magic in everyday life!
My Pink Tutu Calling:
My friends, I can't wait for you to experience the enchantment of Milan for yourselves. Trust me, you will be spellbound. And who knows? You might even find yourself donning a pink tutu as you explore this enchanting city. After all, pink tutus are not only a ballet essential, they're an emblem of confidence, creativity and a bit of fun in life.
Until next time, embrace life with the same joyful spirit of a twirling ballerina, and always remember... there's always room for a touch of pink in the world!
Love and twirls,
Emma xx
