Buongiorno, darlings! It's your favourite pink-tutu-clad, travel-loving ballerina, Emma, and I'm absolutely thrilled to be back in Milan, the city that breathes style and fashion! It's Wednesday, 27th of May 2009, and the sun is shining bright as I'm writing this from a delightful little cafe overlooking the magnificent Duomo. I can almost hear the sound of the city, the murmur of conversations, the chirp of the local birds, and the rumble of a tram hurtling past – it's an absolute symphony!
This week, my lovelies, it's all about fashion, ballet, and, of course, Milan! Remember those delightful dresses I bought last week in Paris? Well, let me tell you, they've been a total hit! Everywhere I go, the Milanese are just gushing over them. I must admit, their impeccable style and passion for fashion has truly inspired me – it's definitely catching!
Ballet at the Teatro alla Scala – A Dream Come True!
So, what have I been up to since my last post? Well, my first stop in Milan was the glorious Teatro alla Scala – my dream venue for years! Walking through those majestic doors, with its rich history and stunning grandeur, it felt as though I'd stepped straight into a fairytale! The ornate gold-plated decor and the sweeping staircase just made me gasp!
The show that night was absolutely divine, a breathtaking interpretation of La Sylphide, featuring some of the most gifted dancers in Italy. Their fluidity and grace, the elegance of the choreography – I was absolutely spellbound! I could hardly contain myself throughout the performance, and I could tell from the other audience members, everyone was enraptured, with gasps of awe and thunderous applause throughout! I know some might think it strange to travel thousands of miles to see a ballet, but believe me, my lovelies, seeing the Scala is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience – you simply have to be there to fully understand it!
The Beauty of Milan
During the day, I’ve been exploring Milan’s magnificent streets. I spent the morning wandering through the enchanting Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a breathtaking shopping arcade lined with beautiful boutiques, cafes and even a theatre! It's a feast for the senses - the architecture is simply awe-inspiring, the light flooding in from the arched glass ceiling makes it truly magical, and it feels like stepping back in time.
Of course, no trip to Milan would be complete without a visit to the iconic Duomo, which dominates the city skyline. Its gothic architecture is both breathtaking and intimidating, a truly stunning display of artistry and grandeur. I spent a delightful hour just marveling at the details – intricate carvings, ornate spires, and beautiful stained-glass windows. From up high, you can see for miles, taking in the vibrant streets, the terracotta rooftops and the majestic mountains that hug the horizon.
A Feast for the Senses – Italian Delights
To be honest, my lovelies, it's not all ballet and art – food has definitely been playing a huge role in my Milan adventure! I must admit, the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting from every corner and the enticing display of pastries and gelato in every shop window has made my journey pure bliss!
From my favourite gelateria on the Piazza della Scala to that charming little cafe overlooking the Duomo, I’ve been indulging in every culinary delight that Milan has to offer. Last night I tried a local speciality called 'risotto alla milanese,' a creamy rice dish with saffron and parmesan cheese, served in a delectable golden-brown sauce - it was pure heaven! And the rich Italian coffee? Well, that’s always a delight!
Shopping Till I Drop!
As if a ballerina like me couldn't escape it, shopping is an integral part of my trip! The sheer variety of clothes on offer is mind-blowing - chic boutiques tucked down alleyways, elegant department stores, and independent shops showcasing everything from high-end couture to handmade Italian crafts. It’s truly a dream come true for any fashion lover like myself. And let me tell you, I’ve definitely made a few splurges. I simply can't resist the charm of these designer boutiques and the thrill of discovering new, beautiful pieces!
One shop that has really captured my imagination is "Moschino". They have the most playful designs, using bright colours and unexpected textures – I picked up a fabulous vintage scarf, all lace and fringe, with their signature “Couture" motif, a bright red lips motif, a little piece of pure Italian sass, perfect for a pink tutu lover!
The Beauty of Tram Travel
There’s one other thing that truly captured my heart – the Milan Tram Network. For me, nothing quite beats hopping on a classic tram, watching the city whiz past, with its vibrant, energy-filled atmosphere. It's an ideal way to explore, to really see the pulse of the city. I love sitting by the window and watching the world go by, observing the street artists, the cyclists, and the everyday life of the Milanese.
My favourite journey? The route along Via Dante – it's like travelling through time, past ancient buildings with crumbling facades, elegant cafes buzzing with conversation, and shop windows overflowing with fashion creations, each with their own unique story. It's a journey that inspires me!
Onward to the Next Adventure
My darlings, this is just a snippet of my amazing time in Milan, a city full of artistic treasures, historical delights, and cultural wonders. I feel completely revitalised by its unique spirit, by its creativity and style. I’ve soaked up the local culture, indulging in a multitude of new experiences – and my favourite, spreading the love of tutus to any passerby who dared!
So, next week, I’m moving on to the next stop on my European adventure - Vienna. But until then, remember – life is a dance and every step is an opportunity to express your unique personality!
I'm counting down the days, can’t wait to share my new discoveries with you! Until then, my darlings, keep those tutus twirling, your spirits bright, and always embrace the wonder of life's journey!
Love always,
Emma, your favourite pink tutu ballerina.
Don't forget to check out www.pink-tutu.com next Monday for more from my European travels!
