Buongiorno from sunny Milan! The cobbled streets are buzzing, the air is thick with the aroma of freshly baked pastries, and the energy is infectious. It's Wednesday in Milan, which means one thing – another week closer to the weekend and another glorious adventure in the fashion capital of the world!
As you know, I love the thrill of exploring new places. And exploring a new place in a pink tutu? Well, that's just pure joy! The people of Milan are wonderfully welcoming and, dare I say, even a little intrigued by my signature style.
Speaking of style, let's talk about Milan! It's practically synonymous with it. Fashion here is an art form, a spectacle that you can practically taste in the air. From the bustling streets to the opulent boutiques, Milan embraces its style identity with gusto, and I couldn't help but get swept up in it!
But before I delve into the world of Italian haute couture, let me take you back to my journey here. I decided to arrive in style – by train, naturally! There’s just something magical about travelling through picturesque countryside, a whimsical ballet soundtrack playing softly in my ears. The journey was a visual treat, the lush greenery transforming into rolling hills, ending in the imposing Milan Central Station.
The tram ride to my hotel was a further exploration into the heart of the city. The tram itself was a charming antique with squeaky brakes and ornate engravings. I sat by the window, letting the gentle sway of the ride and the bustle of the streets melt away any remnants of travel fatigue.
Reaching my hotel was like entering a scene straight out of a fairytale. An old-world facade with a touch of understated elegance. Stepping inside was like entering a bygone era. The aroma of coffee and freshly baked croissants greeted me, instantly easing me into the warm Italian embrace.
I decided to settle in, leaving my luggage in my charming room, adorned with vintage Italian art prints. Before exploring further, I took some time for myself. My travel essentials include my beloved travel-size yoga mat. After a long journey, I was eager for a short yoga session in the comfort of my room, leaving me feeling energised and ready to conquer Milan.
After a few gentle stretches and mindful breathing, I slipped on my favourite pair of leggings and a blush-toned cashmere sweater, ready to embark on my first Milanese adventure. The warm afternoon sun beckoned me towards the charming, cobbled streets.
A Walk through Time
The air was abuzz with a symphony of languages, the sound of laughter echoing down the narrow streets. Charming cafes spilled out onto the pavement, inviting me with their aromatic coffees and sweet pastries.
My first stop was the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Milan’s most elegant shopping mall. I admit, even as I wandered beneath its towering glass dome, I couldn't resist a twirl in my tutu.
There, in the heart of Milan’s style haven, my eyes were drawn to a shop window overflowing with stunning pink creations – gowns, suits, accessories, you name it. It felt as if the universe was orchestrating a rendezvous, inviting me to indulge my love for all things pink!
My eyes were a kaleidoscope of pink. There was a shade for every taste – dusty rose, flamingo pink, bubblegum, and even a daring hot pink. The intricate detail, the sumptuous textures, the way they played with light – it was an experience in itself.
The Galleria, I learned, is more than just a shopping mall. It's an architectural masterpiece, a symbol of the city's architectural legacy, boasting stunning frescoes, elegant arches, and delicate stained glass windows that cast colourful mosaics of light on the cobblestones.
From the Galleria, I wandered through the enchanting narrow streets of the Brera District, a labyrinth of hidden gems, art galleries, and charming boutiques, each exuding an unmistakable Milanese charm.
And speaking of charming boutiques… I stumbled upon a little haven for ballet-lovers. Tucked away in a quiet corner, adorned with ballet-themed posters, was a store offering a stunning collection of ballet shoes, pointe shoes, leotards, and a myriad of dancewear accessories. The shop felt almost magical, emanating a contagious sense of passion for ballet, leaving me spellbound.
I was drawn to a pair of beautiful, soft pink ballet shoes, the laces perfectly knotted, just begging to be twirled in. They felt so luxurious, so elegant, as if made just for me!
As the sun began to dip below the rooftops, casting an orange glow over the city, I made my way towards the Teatro alla Scala. The sheer grandeur of this iconic theatre took my breath away. Its ornate façade, crafted in warm hues of white and cream, echoed a legacy of opera, ballet, and drama.
The air inside was thick with anticipation, the hushed whispers of excited audiences creating an electric atmosphere. Even as I stepped inside, the theatre seemed to have a presence, its grand columns, rich carpets, and velvet-draped seats adding to its timeless majesty.
Unfortunately, there were no shows tonight. However, I didn't leave without catching a glimpse of the grandeur of the theatre, soaking in the ambiance and picturing myself gracefully pirouette on the famous stage.
And now, back to my cozy hotel, feeling full of energy from my day exploring the city's artistic spirit.
Wednesday Night Delights
For my Wednesday night adventure, I had decided to visit a restaurant in the vibrant Navigli area. This historic canal district is a melting pot of culinary delights, artisanal boutiques, and buzzing nightlife.
I opted for a charming ristorante overlooking the canal, a beautifully illuminated tableau of water, cobbled streets, and centuries-old buildings. The aroma of freshly baked bread and the melodic sounds of chatter from locals made for an intimate and enchanting ambience.
I couldn’t resist ordering a plate of the local speciality – Polenta con Funghi - creamy polenta topped with sautéed wild mushrooms. It was a symphony of earthy flavours, the richness of the mushrooms complementing the polenta perfectly. And of course, no meal in Italy is complete without a glass of Vino Rosso, a fruity, red wine that added a touch of elegance to the experience.
Milanese Adventures to Come
Tomorrow, I’m going to visit the stunning Duomo – Milan’s magnificent gothic cathedral, known for its intricately-carved facade and imposing spires. I have my eyes set on taking a picture of the Duomo, myself standing proudly in my pink tutu, the whole ensemble creating an enchanting tableau against the architectural marvel.
The rest of my stay here in Milan will be an exploration of art, fashion, and delicious food! I'll be exploring the art museums, perhaps even taking a ballet class to see what the locals are up to, and sampling all the delectable treats Milan has to offer.
I know I am in for a wonderful adventure! Keep your eyes peeled for my next post where I will take you through the enchanting world of Italian fashion, share my tips for navigating the city like a pro, and maybe even reveal a few hidden gems I discovered in the heart of Milan.
Until then, remember to dream big, chase your passions, and embrace a touch of pink in your life! Ciao from Milan!
