Wednesday, 2001-01-24
Ciao, darling! It's your favourite pink tutu-clad blogger, Emma, signing in live from the dazzling city of Milan! This week, I've traded the rolling hills of Derbyshire for the grand boulevards of Milan, and oh, my dears, let me tell you, this city is absolutely enchanting.
After a whirlwind journey via the Eurostar (complete with a tiny glass of prosecco - I can't resist a bit of sparkle on the go!), I arrived in Milano Centrale station, and already, I knew I was in for a treat. This station is simply magnificent - with its sweeping archways, grand chandeliers, and that undeniable Italian energy.
Of course, I couldn't resist a quick jaunt on the tram, taking in the city's elegant architecture and watching the locals go about their day. It was a visual feast, and I felt like I'd stepped right out of a Fellini film!
My accommodation this week is a darling little B&B tucked away in a charming neighbourhood, filled with vintage shops and delicious smells wafting from the local trattorias. My room is a pastel paradise - you can imagine, a very pink haven. The windows overlook a beautiful little cobbled square, and it feels so authentically Milanese. I've already got my eye on a vintage lace tablecloth in a nearby antique store.
Now, let's talk about fashion! Oh, Milan is heaven on earth for any style devotee, my dears. I simply must tell you about the exquisite shoe shops! From tiny boutiques filled with handmade, handcrafted beauties, to the glittering, extravagant emporiums, it's like a dreamscape for a shoe-obsessed ballerina. And the leather! The supple quality, the gorgeous colours... it's pure indulgence.
But of course, my first order of business had to be a ballet show, and what a performance it was! I saw "Swan Lake" at Teatro alla Scala - simply breathtaking. The dancers were exquisite, the choreography divine, and the costumes, well, they practically begged to be twirled in! Afterward, the lobby buzzed with post-performance excitement. The elegant ladies were radiating a chic Parisian aura, sipping cocktails and discussing the nuances of the performance. I'll confess, I nearly made a beeline for a dapper gentleman in a tuxedo, but he seemed to have a rather strong companion by his side!
However, I am definitely in for another theatre fix. Next on my list? The iconic Teatro Regio! I'm sure you all know that the city of Milan practically radiates music and theatre, with so many grand venues. Just imagine, dear reader, being surrounded by that timeless, electrifying atmosphere of a grand opera house. Truly the stuff of dreams!
And now, on to food! Milan is truly a culinary wonderland! I've had pasta so perfectly cooked, it melted in my mouth, and the freshest mozzarella you can possibly imagine, It seems like there's a fabulous ristorante tucked away on every street corner. Oh, and the pastries! Let's just say I've already sampled my way through a delicious assortment of brioche, biscotti, and some divine pistachio gelato (my favourite!).
This city truly feels alive! Everywhere you turn, you see vibrant colours, captivating street art, bustling markets filled with handcrafted goods and, of course, some serious style! Even the everyday sights feel glamorous. I swear, the even the traffic lights shimmer with a chic Milanese sparkle.
But the highlight of the trip so far has been my encounter with the incredible La Scala Academy. I was simply in awe of their dedication and passion! I watched a master class with some of the most talented young dancers I've ever seen, their leaps, turns, and precision were simply awe-inspiring. I even tried my luck in a beginner's class! It was challenging, but it was fantastic to be surrounded by that atmosphere and the beautiful music! The teachers were all so encouraging and patient. Honestly, it's inspired me to up my ballet game tenfold.
You can't leave Milan without indulging in a bit of fashion shopping. The streets are bursting with independent designers, luxury boutiques, and high street treasures waiting to be discovered. Let's just say, I might have snagged a pair of stunning red leather ballet flats (and a blush-toned silk scarf for my hair, of course! It's all about that colour co-ordination!).
I’ll be sure to tell you more about the shopping treasures I unearth in Milan – trust me, they'll be on the Pink Tutu approved list!
It's safe to say that I'm completely smitten with this incredible city. It's a feast for the eyes, the ears, the palate, and of course, the heart. But don't worry, dear readers! I'm still here to spread the pink tutu love. I spotted a delightful local market brimming with fabric, lace, ribbons... you name it! I can't wait to get to work on some fabulous creations, and trust me, there's nothing better than a pink tutu strutting its stuff along the Via Montenapoleone, what do you think?
Oh, and guess what! The local opera house is hosting a "Pink Tutu Party" for their patrons! Apparently, I've sparked a little pink tutu fever here in Milan, which is fantastic news! So, if you happen to see a pink tutu waltzing through the city, it just might be me. Remember to follow the pink tutu, darlings!
Until next time, sending you lots of pink tutu love,
Emma www.pink-tutu.com
