Ciao bella!
I’m back in Milan and as I’m sitting at my window, overlooking the charming cobbled street, with a little steaming cuppa in my hand and a brand new pink tutu (which just happened to fall into my shopping basket on my way here), I'm feeling so content. Milan truly has that je ne sais quoi that just draws me back in.
Last night I was so spoilt, I saw two ballet shows in a row, both by Teatro alla Scala! They were utterly magnificent, with an intoxicating mix of grace and beauty, it was just truly exquisite. I wish I could share it with you, but words just cannot describe the pure, breathtaking joy I felt. But I can share this, both shows had a certain fairytale magic and a hint of danger, both perfectly portrayed. Oh and of course, everyone looked absolutely beautiful! The costumes were so exquisitely crafted, they practically breathed life.
I was very excited this week, when I went to the train station to collect my pre-ordered ballet shoes, which arrived all the way from the UK! A brand new pair of pink, ballet shoes. I was thrilled to death, because of course, every girl needs a backup pair!
This week, the beautiful La Scala's season opens, I am going to see "Aida" and I have already been busy shopping for a perfect pink tutu outfit to wear. I will try to post pictures and let you know my opinion on my favourite, “Best Tutu for Aida" as soon as I get some amazing pictures on Friday night. I can’t wait to watch "Aida", my favourite!
But I think I’ve probably told you all about the Milan Teatro Alla Scala already! It's not only about its fabulous productions, although they really are top notch, it’s also a building with amazing architectural style that will surely knock your socks off (maybe your pink tutu ones?!) It's in the city center and is the heart of the culture of this magical city. You’ll spot it very easily, with it’s incredible neoclassical building facade! It takes you right back to the times of the Medici!
In Derbyshire where I’m from, we just don’t have anything that compares with Milan.
This week’s post is going to focus on what you need to do when you are here, because trust me, there is a lot you have to experience in Milan, so it helps if you are a little organised before you arrive.
You don't need a car in Milan, the transport here is excellent and there is a whole tram system which you can navigate with ease. I found this very easy, as a few routes take you right through the heart of the city centre, passing by some great iconic landmarks along the way. If you just jump on one and it is the “green line” tram 2 (this will helpfully tell you this, if you are not already on board the tram 2, that it is the green line!), this route passes just in front of the magnificent “Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II,” the grand Italian glass arched shopping mall - if you don’t already know, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is, like the city, famous for its beautiful fashion. It was opened in 1878. I think if I ever needed a job to pay for my travels I think a “tutu fitting” expert for ballet dancers, would make a perfect match.
The Tram journey is a perfect place to pick up your daily dose of some beautiful architecture, as the buildings here are magnificent. They look stunning especially when lit up, with the beautiful setting sun, you have got to love a Milan sunset, and watch out for the "Torre Velasca." This is an impressive skyscraper and stands out on the skyline!
Once you’ve had a day of Milanese culture, shopping is, of course, a must! There are so many gorgeous stores in Milan that I know that you won't leave here without a single new item of clothing to complete your look, whether you want a new pink tutu, or a simple elegant shirt or something much more casual. This is one of the great pleasures of a trip to Milan and certainly a big plus to this vibrant and historic city. I have already had a peek into one shop and it’s tempting, really tempting, as they’re full of colourful beautiful tutus – my heart fluttered as I walked past and a little tutushopping was inevitable!
Another key Milan fashion feature is the Quadrilatero d'Oro – otherwise known as the ‘Golden Rectangle.” This area is well worth a little stroll.
This beautiful cobblestone pedestrianised zone, is bursting with top designers including, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana and Armani, as well as some great designer outlets which give you that opportunity for a serious shopping splurge! And that's if you can get to these stores because you are likely to spend many a day, happily wandering the charming streets. They really make this beautiful Italian city feel very exclusive. And you just know that the boutiques here are stocked with beautiful tutus of every design and colour! I found the most magnificent shop for everything, the shop assistants even gave me some amazing tips on where to go for other exciting shopping experiences in Milan!
My tip for the day, the Quadrilatero d’Oro’s designers boutiques, can seem so very expensive to the budget-conscious, but actually, there’s another way to make the most of your stay here, with just as much shopping pleasure – head for the fashion districts outside the city’s centre!
After you’ve finished browsing the city centre “Golden Rectangle”, then get on a tram and venture to “Brera.” This area is full of more independent shops that feature more traditional clothes with a little more creative flare. There are great little shops here with everything from quirky and trendy boutique clothing to quirky and affordable items to wear to even a fantastic store packed with colourful, fluffy tutus. This area is particularly interesting as it really is full of creative artists. If you’re searching for the special items to complete your style or looking for something with an original, special touch – then you've found your place, because you’re more than likely to find a one-off item or maybe even two – if you look carefully!
When it comes to the art and theatre world of Milan there are lots of amazing exhibitions and even more fantastic plays to choose from. There is the “Museo del Novecento,” with all its artistic wonder – you can see an impressive collection of some amazing twentieth-century masterpieces – here you can see works by renowned artists from both Italy and further afield, a real “must do.”
So once your new ballet shoes are on and the outfit for the day is sorted you have more or less done with the city centre shopping; this part of the city, with its traditional shops, the city centre, has that amazing vibrant buzz – but remember to keep your eyes peeled! The amazing shops and stores here are very cleverly tucked away around every corner.
The city center with all its architectural splendor will take you into its fascinating heart, but don’t forget there’s another very important part of the Milan “picture,” the city's parkland - take a day trip outside of the city and be totally transported by one of these green spaces – “Parco Sempione”, at the edge of the centre is simply breathtaking! You will feel your whole body relax as the tranquility of this urban oasis descends, and it feels like you've truly stepped into nature!
There's a sense of serenity that envelopes you as soon as you arrive and it truly gives you the impression that you're millions of miles from the bustle of Milan! And it’s a perfect way to explore nature and make a few observations for any of those budding botanists in the group or even take inspiration for the perfect outfit or accessories. Take a leisurely walk and then why not relax on one of the grass mounds overlooking the city. You could be on the brink of inspiration. This really is a wonderful oasis for peace and contemplation – but there is something to do for everyone here!
If the peace and tranquility of the park makes you feel a little peckish – head over to the wonderful café’s, the city is really well supplied, and try something new – Italian, Asian – if it’s an open front or garden setting you will find the people, especially locals and Italian families enjoying their Sunday lunches – be sure to choose something really fresh, light and airy for your lunchtime delights.
If the atmosphere is right, this will make an amazing opportunity to put the tutu back on for another quick photo – this will really make this urban oasis your own special moment in the city. I'm never seen without a spare pink tutu in my bag when I travel, it's essential!
There you go - enjoy your Milan stay and happy travels. I'm going to take a quick nap after all that, I need some energy before tonight's “Aida” production and another new tutu to wear, what a day to wear pink!
Talk soon!
See you back next Monday on www.pink-tutu.com
Emma x
