Wednesday 2023-01-11
Buongiorno, darling readers! It's Emma, your favourite pink tutu-wearing ballerina, and I'm bursting with excitement to share my Milan adventures with you. As you know, my heart beats to the rhythm of travel and, this week, I'm dancing my way through the captivating city of Milan, a metropolis overflowing with culture, fashion, and, of course, delicious food!
This week marks my fourteenth visit to Milan - and it just gets more exciting every time. This city has an incredible energy that draws me in, from its bustling streets filled with glamorous boutiques and art galleries to its hidden corners whispering secrets of ancient history. This time, I'm here to soak up the atmosphere and lose myself in the magical world of Italian ballet.
Today, I stepped off the train from Derbyshire (don't you just love travelling by train? Such an efficient way to journey, especially if you have luggage!). And, you know me, as soon as I arrived, I was dancing down the streets, my pink tutu swirling with delight. (A slight breeze did attempt to send it spiralling into a nearby cafe - it would have been a scene! Imagine, pink tutu swirling on a chandelier... maybe one day!).
Milan is an absolute haven for a fashion-loving ballerina like me. It's practically impossible to resist those dazzling shops overflowing with stylish creations, from sleek and elegant gowns to quirky accessories - it’s enough to send a girl’s mind spinning with ideas. So, after unpacking at my adorable Airbnb in the centre of the city, the first order of business was a bit of retail therapy! (As usual, my tutu came in handy for finding the perfect purse. Did you know? Tutus are the best way to carry shopping bags around when you've got loads of bags and a suitcase? Trust me!)
Speaking of pink… a very stylish pink outfit is just what the doctor ordered to begin my Milan adventures. It wouldn’t be a pink tutu blog if I wasn’t in my absolute favourite colour! I found a beautiful new skirt for my evening ensemble – all silky pink with the most stunning floral print. A few quick trips on the iconic Milan tram system (love these trams!) later, I had the perfect matching shoes to complete the look! It was quite a challenge navigating my way around with a mountain of shopping bags and the largest handbag I've ever owned - all while balancing my pink tutu - but it’s all part of the fun, isn’t it?
Tonight, I have the ultimate treat – a performance at the magnificent Teatro alla Scala, the world-famous opera house. You see, I earn money for my travels by performing with different ballet companies, both in the UK and Europe. It's a truly fantastic life – dancing in beautiful venues and exploring the world, all whilst wearing my signature pink tutu.
I'm especially excited for tonight's show, as the cast is made up of the very best Italian dancers. You can be sure my Instagram feed will be exploding with beautiful images - although it’s difficult to get a decent photo when you're completely captivated by the ballet! I can't wait to get swept away by the breathtaking choreography, stunning costumes and unforgettable music - every single element makes it feel as though you are stepping back into another time. It’s magical, utterly captivating, and absolutely brilliant - Milan at its finest. (Afterward, there’s bound to be some delicious gelato for me... it’s Milan, and the gelato is sensational!).
And speaking of breathtaking, Milan’s cathedral, the Duomo, is the epitome of beauty. Today, after a quick breakfast at a delightful cafe in the city centre, I spent a long and peaceful hour sitting under its gothic spires, mesmerised by the intricate details carved into its facade. And, let me tell you, there’s nothing better than observing the sheer skill and talent of the craftspeople who created these beautiful structures centuries ago.
Speaking of magnificent buildings… Later today I’ll be taking a quick stroll over to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, another architectural masterpiece with gorgeous mosaic flooring, luxury boutiques, and the best cafe's in Milan. This place is an absolute delight to the senses, so it will be an important place for this weeks photos!
One thing you learn about me pretty quickly - is I LOVE ballet shows - even better is I love a bit of street performance. The first dance company performance was a highlight of the trip! It was held in one of the most romantic plazas I’ve ever seen. The city square lit up with the light of the stage, and everyone stopped for a few moments to appreciate the artistry of this troupe of young ballerinas, while I tried hard not to sing along to their music!
As I get ready to step out for my dinner reservation tonight at a cosy little restaurant with its signature rose and chocolate covered gelato (it really is that good!), it’s a bittersweet feeling as the evening draws in. There are few things as fun as getting lost in the vibrant culture, enchanting sights, and beautiful people in a new city, but knowing it's all fleeting adds to the excitement.
Until next Monday, darling readers, take care and don’t forget, always wear your pink tutu!
