#PinkTutuMilan Wednesday 2001-04-04 ballet blog from Milano Italia

Post #304 - Wednesday 4th April 2001

Buongiorno, darlings! It's Emma here, your resident pink tutu-wearing, ballet-obsessed blogger, and I'm absolutely thrilled to be writing to you from the fashion capital of the world, Milano!

The sun is shining, the air is crisp, and the scent of freshly brewed espresso fills every corner of the city. It's truly magical!

I landed in Milan just a few days ago, feeling like a character straight out of a fairy tale. As soon as my suitcase landed on the carousel, I felt an electric jolt of excitement. This city, this energy, this Italian glamour - it's just irresistible.

And to make things even more exciting, I'm performing at the Teatro alla Scala this week, the legendary opera house that is truly the heart and soul of Milanese culture! I mean, imagine - performing on the same stage as Tosca and Aida, dancing where so many iconic dancers and performers have graced the boards! The pressure is definitely on, but the feeling of excitement and privilege washes over me like a warm wave.

But before I start working on my pirouettes and perfecting those graceful arabesques, let me tell you all about the glorious adventures I've already had since my arrival!

From the moment I arrived, the fashion capital has welcomed me with open arms. I mean, I wouldn't expect anything less. This is the city of Versace, Armani, and Prada, after all!

I landed at Linate Airport, where the stylishly-dressed airport staff gave me the warmest smile and a “Ciao, bella!” (that made me blush, darling!). My trip to the hotel, however, was my first true encounter with Milan's legendary charm.

I decided to take a tram, of course. Not only is it a fantastically efficient way to get around the city, but the tramlines weave their way through beautiful, narrow streets lined with boutiques and cafés, all bathed in the glorious golden sunshine. It's like travelling through a romantic postcard.

Tip: *Be sure to purchase your tram tickets in advance at any one of the conveniently located ticket machines at the station! *

As soon as I checked into my hotel, I rushed straight out to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II – the iconic glass-covered shopping arcade that feels more like a museum than a shopping centre. It is simply breathtaking, with its ornate glass roof, stunning mosaics, and grand arches. I felt a bit like Cinderella at the Royal Ball.

It was a feast for the eyes - not just for fashion but for food, too! The Galleria houses the Ristorante Trussardi and an impressive variety of bars and cafes. As soon as I stepped into this majestic arcade, my inner fashionista felt completely at home. It was truly a magical experience. I took pictures (so many pictures!), and I must confess, I did some rather decadent window shopping, too! (I'll be sharing a post dedicated to the shopping scene here later!)

And no trip to Milan would be complete without a visit to the Duomo di Milano. This imposing cathedral stands tall and proud at the heart of the city, its stunning facade a masterpiece of gothic architecture. It is just magnificent. The Duomo's spires pierce the sky, and the sheer scale of it just leaves you breathless. The sheer intricacy of the intricate sculptures and delicate stonework is simply mesmerizing.

I spent ages just taking it all in, letting the beauty and grandeur of the cathedral wash over me. This masterpiece of architecture truly embodies the history, faith, and artistry of Milan. The cathedral was built between the 14th and the 19th centuries. It's incredible to think that all those years ago, master craftsman were dedicated to building something as beautiful and grand as the Duomo. I don't think I've ever felt such a profound sense of awe. I can definitely see why this magnificent building is known as a “Symbol of Milan.”

If you are an art lover (like I am!), then you must absolutely visit Pinacoteca di Brera. It houses an extensive and impressive collection of Italian paintings, from medieval masterpieces to stunning Renaissance pieces. From the Venetian masterpieces of Giovanni Bellini and Paolo Veronese, to the dynamic and vibrant works of Caravaggio and Raphael - it is truly an art lover’s paradise. You will definitely lose yourself in the beauty of each brushstroke, colour, and detail.

I was completely enthralled by the "Nativity with Saint Francis and Saint Lawrence" by Mantegna. The composition and the realism of the painting were breathtaking. It's hard not to feel connected to the faith, the history, and the story captured within each brushstroke.

Of course, no trip to Milan would be complete without a culinary adventure! There's so much delicious food to be savoured.

Every time I see Pizza Margherita with its simple ingredients, a slice of red, green and white: it's a delightful symbol of Italian tradition, beauty, and perfection.

Oh, the pasta, darling! You can't forget the pasta. Milan is renowned for its love affair with the "risotto", but I found myself swooning over the “cacio e pepe". It was perfectly creamy, with the right amount of salt and black pepper. It was a culinary masterpiece! And I'll let you in on a secret: it's best enjoyed on a bustling terrace with a glass of crisp Italian white wine.

The rich, creamy flavour of gelato with that hint of espresso, the warm and fragrant pizza fresh out of the oven... they're simply irresistible. And trust me, the experience is enhanced a hundredfold when savoured with a captivating view of the city!

I will tell you all about it soon. For now, I’ve got a performance to prepare for! More adventures and stories coming to your screens soon, darlings.

Until then, remember: life's a stage. Let's wear our pink tutus with confidence and sparkle with joy. Ciao, beautiful souls!

**XOXO,

Emma**

P.S. Did you know that on this date in 2001, the world's first ever online DVD rental service launched? The future was definitely looking bright! What's more, the World Health Organisation began a program to eradicate Polio! I couldn't think of a better way to commemorate this day. Keep shining, darlings!