Wednesday 2008-02-13
Buongiorno, darlings! It’s Emma, your resident pink tutu enthusiast, reporting live from the glamorous city of Milan! I’ve been practically hopping with excitement since arriving yesterday, my pink tutu feeling right at home amongst the fashion-forward Milanese. As you all know, I’m on a mission to make the world a more sparkly, pink tutu-filled place. And let me tell you, Milan is the perfect place to spread the pink tutu love!
After a lovely, smooth journey on the train from Derbyshire (a big thank you to the lovely ladies in the carriage who were very complimentary of my outfit – a fabulously floral dress with my trusty pink tutu over the top – it always draws a crowd!), I checked into my little hotel tucked away in a charming, quiet back street. My room is tiny, but who needs space when you have all of Milan to explore?
My first adventure was a stroll through the heart of the city, the Duomo dominating the skyline like a magnificent fairy tale castle. I must confess, I nearly ran straight into a rather imposing gentleman sporting an equally impressive moustache. I quickly apologised and – as one does when the situation calls for a bit of flair – I did a little twirl and a curtsy, just for good measure. He actually chuckled, tipping his hat and murmuring something about “beautiful ballerina.” Milan already knows how to charm!
Next, I had a delightful lunch at a quaint little cafe called "Il Pasticcino Rosa." Talk about pink tutu-approved! The food was divine - think delicious sandwiches on fresh, crusty bread, the freshest salad I’ve ever tasted, and, of course, the best cappuccinos to finish it off! This place is officially added to my Pink Tutu Milan guide!
The afternoon was dedicated to the true heart of Milan – fashion! Shopping, of course! The streets here are just buzzing with amazing boutiques, from vintage shops tucked away on side streets to the glossy high-street stores with everything your heart desires. I was positively overwhelmed by the colourful fabrics and stylish clothes. I treated myself to a silk scarf in the most stunning shade of rose-pink, perfect for tying around my waist with my pink tutu for an extra dash of pizazz!
And oh my, I came across the most exquisite pair of ballet pumps - a perfect shade of petal pink, they were begging to be twirled in! They’re coming home with me for sure. My ballet shoes will have a new friend in these little beauties.
Speaking of ballet, this evening's highlight is the incredible Teatro alla Scala, or “La Scala” as the Milanese know it. My goodness, what a masterpiece of architectural beauty it is, the most majestic building I’ve seen yet! I can't wait to see what spectacle is waiting within its grand walls.
The theatre was truly magical. I saw a production of Verdi's La Traviata – a performance that moved me to the core, and reminded me why I love this art form so much. I found myself twirling along to the music, and even whispered a silent “Bravo!” at the end, my heart brimming with joy. A ballet lover's dream!
The energy in Milan is infectious, it truly makes you feel alive! As I wandered through the cobbled streets under the twinkling city lights, I noticed all the beautiful sights and sounds – a little street music, the chatter of happy Italians, and the incredible architecture all around me.
Tonight, however, my tutu was calling for a well-deserved rest after its adventure today! As I settle into my hotel room, I’m feeling content and inspired by my Milan escapade. The pink tutu energy is certainly alive and well here. The city is definitely a dream come true for a ballerina on a mission.
I’m planning a visit to the gorgeous Parco Sempione in the morning, for some peace and quiet in the city’s tranquil green haven, and who knows what treasures await in the charming shops and backstreets?
Stay tuned for another update on the week’s adventures from Pink Tutu Milan. Until next time, darlings!
Emma
*P.S. Remember, my little lovelies, the power of pink is truly a force to be reckoned with! So go forth and spread the pink tutu love everywhere you go, just like me! You’re never too old or too young, and you don’t need to be a ballerina! Every twirl is a celebration of joy, and that’s a message everyone deserves to see. 😉 *
Post Scriptum:
And since you lovely people are always wanting to know about my daily routine…
My Milan day looks a little something like this:
Morning:
- 6:30 am: Wake-up call! Yes, I know it sounds crazy but the earlier you start, the more you can cram into the day, right? A cup of Earl Grey tea with a biscuit or two, and then some gentle stretches before slipping into my most comfortable dancing clothes (which, let’s be honest, is my pink tutu) for my morning exercise.
- 7:30 am: Quick ballet warm-up. I usually find a small, quiet park to dance in - it's such a refreshing way to start the day, and usually attracts a curious audience or two!
- 8:30 am: Back to the hotel for a hearty breakfast – I'm all about a good balance of fruits, yoghurt, and a delicious Italian espresso. A quick check of emails, messages from family back in Derbyshire, and to catch up on all my favorite blogs.
- 9:30 am: Now, for the big day! Today I am visiting The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II! Can’t wait to see the gorgeous mosaics and snap a photo of my pink tutu in this magical shopping mall.
- 11:30 am: Time for a little coffee break and to do some people watching with my pink tutu-topped floral dress – an absolute winner of an outfit for Milan’s sophisticated charm.
- 1:00 pm: Back on the go, exploring the beautiful historic churches, piazzas and backstreets. Milan has so much to offer!
Afternoon:
- 3:00 pm: Fashion, fashion, fashion! That's my motto when in Milan! First, a visit to one of the city's most well-known fashion designers – Gianfranco Ferré - just to get a feel for their style. Next up is some window-shopping, a walk down the prestigious Via Montenapoleone, home to designer stores, boutique hotels and a delicious afternoon tea – perfect for fueling my wanderlust!
- 5:00 pm: Back at my hotel for a little "me time," catch up with some of my ballet classes back home with the aid of online video streaming – I love staying connected with my fellow dancers even when I’m travelling. Then it’s time for a change into an elegant cocktail dress for my evening plans.
- 6:30 pm: Dinner time! Milan has a vibrant restaurant scene, with everything from classic Italian trattorias to Michelin-starred fine dining experiences.
Evening:
- 8:00 pm: And now, for the big event: The evening performance. Tonight is a thrilling production of Swan Lake at Teatro alla Scala! What a perfect evening in this extraordinary city! I cannot wait to be wowed!
Late evening:
- 10:00 pm: A delicious Italian coffee from a cosy little café (or maybe a refreshing Spritz to top off the evening). It's always best to linger in a café for a bit of chat and conversation, soak up the atmosphere, and appreciate the night-time magic.
- 11:30 pm: Finally back to the hotel – ready for a restful sleep after my packed day!
It's not just about dancing in the street, though it is always so much fun, it's about experiencing a place, a culture, a world with the spirit of joy and freedom! And when you do it with a pink tutu, well, that’s even better.
See you next week for my next update on adventures in the beautiful city of Milan! Until then, have a lovely week and spread some pink tutu love. 💖
