Hello darlings! It's your favourite tutu-clad traveller, Emma, checking in from sunny Milan! I just know you're dying to hear about my latest adventures in this fabulous city of fashion and glamour, so grab a glass of something sparkling (perhaps a little pink prosecco?) and settle in.
This week, it's all about embracing the "dolce vita" and discovering hidden gems. And, naturally, there's a pink tutu involved - wouldn't be a Pink Tutu Milan blog post without it!
Now, where did I leave my diary? Ah, there it is, tucked under a pile of… ooh! Did you see that little vintage scarf I picked up at the flea market on Via Etna this morning? Such a beautiful emerald green, perfect for adding a touch of colour to my ballet outfit (don't worry, my trusty pink tutu will still be the star of the show, of course!)
Anyway, let's rewind to my arrival in Milan on Thursday, shall we? The train journey from Derbyshire was an absolute dream. The rolling countryside flew past my window, all lush greens and charming little villages. I had the perfect window seat and settled in with my new copy of "Anna Karenina," a fitting literary choice considering the elegance of Milan, wouldn't you say? I finished the whole thing in record time, utterly absorbed by the drama unfolding within its pages.
Arriving at Milano Centrale Station was a whirlwind of excitement. Everything feels so much more dramatic here! From the bustling crowds to the beautiful architecture, it's clear this city has its own heartbeat, a rhythm that thrums through every street.
I took the trusty tram number 10 directly to my little apartment. This time, I opted for a cute loft near the Duomo, right in the heart of things! I have a little balcony overlooking a courtyard full of geraniums, which fills the space with such sweet fragrance. And best of all? The kitchen! I can finally indulge in a proper Italian breakfast of cappuccino and freshly baked croissants - bliss!
Let's talk shopping! You know how much I adore wandering through the little boutiques and discovering vintage treasures. My first stop was on Corso Buenos Aires. Such a vibrant street full of young and stylish people. I found the most amazing pair of pink ballet shoes - think bright bubblegum pink with a subtle glitter effect - absolutely perfect for my evening performances. And speaking of performances...
My very first performance in Milan was at the Teatro alla Scala! It's truly an architectural marvel, with its magnificent golden exterior and an interior that took my breath away. I joined a local dance troupe called the "Milanese Ballet Angels" for a gala performance. I must confess, they had me a little nervous - their movements were so sharp and precise! But the performance went off without a hitch, and we received a standing ovation! The applause felt like magic. I've never felt more in my element.
After the show, the "Angels" and I headed to a little restaurant tucked away in a side street near the Duomo. We feasted on traditional Milanese risotto, and, of course, no meal is complete without a generous helping of tiramisu! We shared stories about our love for dance and bonded over our shared passion for tutus. Yes, even these elegant ballerinas adored the sight of a pink tutu - I felt like I had found my people!
On Saturday, it was time to visit a hidden gem - the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. This breathtaking glass-covered arcade, with its beautiful mosaic floors, is like a window into a bygone era. I was particularly mesmerized by the Museo del Novecento within its majestic walls. This museum showcases modern Italian art and features an eclectic collection of sculptures, paintings and installations from the 20th century. It was a truly thought-provoking experience, and it filled me with a newfound appreciation for contemporary art.
Naturally, a day of cultural exploration couldn't pass without some serious indulgence! We popped into Pasticceria Marchesi 1824 for a cup of hot chocolate, the most divine treat I've ever had. Creamy, velvety, and so rich! This is the place where the famous Milanese drink their hot chocolate - it's the quintessential experience! I made sure to grab a box of macarons (in a shade of pink, naturally) for my afternoon treat.
Speaking of macarons... On Sunday, my fellow dancers and I ventured outside the city center, venturing to the lovely suburb of Monza. We were eager to explore the "Villa Reale," an opulent palace with beautifully manicured gardens, fountains and breathtaking views. The air felt crisp and fresh, and I could feel my anxieties about the week's performances fading into the background.
As we strolled through the gardens, I found the perfect spot to practice a few of my ballet moves. I couldn't resist a little photo op with the pink tutu - after all, it wouldn't be a Pink Tutu Milan post without a few pictures to capture the essence of the experience! The backdrop of the Villa Reale was pure perfection, with its vibrant greenery and classical architecture.
The highlight of Sunday evening was an unforgettable visit to the Teatro dell'Opera for a magnificent ballet performance of Swan Lake. This enchanting masterpiece took me back to my childhood, the beauty of the story resonating with me in a way that felt so poignant and pure. The choreography was impeccable, the dancers' movements graceful and emotive, and the music so moving that it brought tears to my eyes. The magic of ballet never fails to amaze me!
Oh, and let's not forget the food! No trip to Italy would be complete without a visit to a traditional trattoria, and on Sunday night, we found the perfect one. It was nestled away in a back street, buzzing with locals and a feeling of pure authenticity. We indulged in an exquisite selection of freshly made pasta, bursting with flavours of Italy, and savoured a selection of the region's finest wines. The conversations flowed freely, filled with laughter and good-natured teasing - it was the perfect end to a weekend packed with excitement and cultural delights.
But enough about me! Let me know about your week, dear readers! What are your favourite ways to spend a Sunday? What are some of your favourite cultural events or museums in your city? Share your experiences with me in the comments below! And of course, let's hear your favourite pink tutu tips and tricks!
Until next time, stay glamorous and dance with your heart!
Love,
Emma xoxo www.pink-tutu.com
P.S. Don't forget to check back next week for more Pink Tutu Milan adventures!
