Ciao bella! It's your favourite tutu-loving, ballet-obsessed blogger back from the sunshine and fabulousness of Milan! I've been on a whirlwind trip, packed full of pirouettes and panniers, with just enough time for a touch of delicious gelato and fabulous fashion finds. It's all been a bit of a dream, and trust me, I wouldn't have it any other way.
My adventures kicked off in the heart of Milan, right at the Central Station. Now, you wouldn't believe the array of colourful trams bustling around the place! I think it's officially my favourite form of public transport, and just look at it, each tram a miniature work of art! I mean, wouldn't you be a little giddy travelling in something this fabulous?
Of course, with all those delightful trams whisking me around Milan, my journey wouldn't be complete without a little ballet in my life. You see, I find ballet just as addictive as a good scoop of gelato!
My heart was racing when I arrived at the beautiful Teatro alla Scala – Milan’s magnificent opera house and one of the most prestigious theatres in the world. Stepping into that magnificent foyer with its high ceilings and ornate details was simply breathtaking! It felt like being transported back in time. I mean, think of all the famous ballet dancers who had graced this stage – what a privilege! I felt like I was walking on clouds.
And then, I witnessed an absolute spectacle – the world-renowned * Teatro alla Scala Ballet*. The company is so incredible; the precision of their moves, the captivating costumes, the sheer raw passion! My emotions were a total whirlwind – I was completely transported into the stories being told on stage.
After the show, the excitement had hardly left my body as I wandered the glamorous streets. This city has such a chic energy. All the gorgeous architecture, those quaint cobblestone streets… I felt like I'd wandered into a vintage fashion magazine! I swear, I spotted more couture boutiques than I could count, but luckily my trusty tote bag was ready for the day! You know I have to bring home some souvenirs from Milan, especially when you can get such stylish fashion gems here. I managed to find the perfect sequined shrug in a delicious shade of fuchsia. I've got a feeling this one will be a definite statement piece!
The next day, I ventured outside the city centre to the equally vibrant area of Porta Romana (translation: 'Roman Gate'), one of Milan’s oldest city gates. This is an area I loved discovering – cobblestone streets lined with restaurants and bars, but tucked away is this stunning historic area with these breathtaking old walls! A perfect blend of historic charm and buzzing city energy – the perfect mix for me!
It would be almost criminal to travel to Milan without a visit to one of their incredible ballet schools. Luckily, I managed to squeeze in a morning class at the Scuola di Ballo Accademia Teatro alla Scala, also known as the La Scala ballet school. This is a world-renowned school and, wow! The energy and talent of these young dancers is simply captivating. The classrooms were so well-equipped, the students were dedicated and enthusiastic – their passion for ballet shone through.
This is a real melting pot for ballet lovers – with the grandest of ballet theatres and incredibly skilled students, you could say it's a dance enthusiast's dream come true! It's something I'm just not used to in my little corner of Derbyshire!
After a whirl around Milan, it was time for my trusty tram to whisk me away to the countryside. Imagine Cascina Bollate – a charming village tucked away near Milan. I discovered this charming, historical villa on the outskirts of the city! They had such a cute village square and beautiful local shops filled with handicrafts – such a peaceful escape after the bustling streets of Milan.
Now, a special place like this, you would expect, also has a ballet studio! Luckily, Teatro Bollate did just that. The studio had a lovely cosy atmosphere and the class was really special - focusing on the fundamentals of ballet – just what I needed! I even ended up learning a little new Italian phrase "passo doppio" – the "double step". Maybe next time, I'll be brave and try speaking some more Italian.
From breathtaking scenery to charming towns, to bustling cities and breathtaking performances, my Italian adventure is one that will remain with me for a very long time.
And who knows, maybe my love affair with pink tutus will rub off on Milan – I might just have a whole city decked out in the sweetest shade of pink!
*Until next week, from your very own Pink Tutu girl! *
Don't forget to visit my website: www.pink-tutu.com.
Ps: Do share your favourite Milan moments or pink tutu outfits! Tag me in your photos using #pinktutumilan – I can't wait to see your amazing style!
