Buongiorno, darlings! It's Emma here, back from the magical streets of Milan, sparkling with festive joy. My heart is still buzzing from this whirlwind Italian adventure. This city, it truly embraces the spirit of Christmas with a sprinkle of magic.
This week, as you know, I am writing to you from Milano. It feels like forever since I was here, and there’s nothing like being in this dynamic, beautiful and fashion-forward city to remind me why it’s always a treat to be here. Today I’ll be sharing the sparkling beauty and festive wonder of this Christmas in Milano, a city which manages to embrace Christmas cheer with such stylish flair. I love that my trips to Milan are often fueled by my dance work. It’s the best excuse for shopping sprees and fabulous ballet shows. I was even asked to perform in a gorgeous holiday themed show on the piazza - it was such an honour! Let's be honest, I might be a little biased when it comes to performing, I have this thing for anything that sparkles and twinkles, just like a Christmas bauble!
Milan just has such a delightful atmosphere - and trust me, there’s not a Christmas market I wouldn't explore with a trusty Pink Tutu in tow. And when it comes to Christmas, the Tutu-bilities are endless.
Oh my! I must share this fantastic ballet performance with you, at Teatro alla Scala. The majestic, historical opera house was so breathtaking with it’s twinkling festive lights. They really do know how to embrace the glamour. This performance was an unforgettable experience that sent shivers down my spine. The dancers - oh my! They are the epitome of grace. This exquisite ballet, a tale of Christmas romance and heartfelt wishes performed in front of that incredible historic backdrop, is something I won't ever forget.
Talking of things I won't forget - I discovered this hidden gem of a shop that is just perfect for my pink tutu obsession. It was hidden away down a little cobblestone alleyway and housed a collection of tutus that could satisfy the dreams of every ballerina, whether you were four or ninety-four. This place was so wonderful I found myself trying on every colour tutu imaginable - a true ballet lover’s paradise. It is like finding a hidden treasure in the heart of this glamorous city. The owners were so lovely, they told me about a secret garden they’d opened to teach local children how to dance.
Before the dance school opened we visited one of those magical, enchanting Italian Christmas markets. There was the delicious aroma of roasted chestnuts - perfect for a winter evening walk, the most glorious carols being sung, with decorations twinkling like the night sky itself. The festive atmosphere was contagious! The Christmas spirit just flowed into your heart - it really felt like a magical scene straight out of a festive fairy-tale, all surrounded by that charming, vintage Christmas charm I adore.
Christmas, or "Natale" as they say here in Italy, feels magical in this beautiful city, especially if you enjoy finding little gifts or quirky and lovely ornaments like me! I spotted a pair of miniature ballerina shoes - how cute, aren’t they? The perfect little stocking stuffer, a Christmas tradition I'm planning on bringing back home to Derbyshire. This charming market was filled with artisanal goodies, twinkling decorations, delicious Italian treats and it’s impossible not to indulge!
As I wandered down this delightful street I was just mesmerized by the stunning display of Christmas decorations - there is simply nothing like an Italian Christmas to fill your heart with sparkle. I've found some beautiful Christmas trinkets, but the most treasured souvenir I picked up is a charming, vintage-looking ballet themed Christmas ornament. And guess what - it's a little pink!
Let's be honest - this year my ballet diary has been full to bursting! The demands of a ballerina never rest but this holiday season I am finally making time to enjoy this delightful Christmas and festive cheer that is so very Italian.
But before my flight, it was back on the Milan trams for a day of exploring the glorious shops - after all, I needed to find my new wardrobe for the New Year. The iconic, elegant architecture and dazzling Christmas lights are a real treat for my eyes, especially as the festive window displays on every store along Via della Spiga looked utterly magical. You could just feel the buzz and excitement as shoppers bustled past, seeking the perfect gift for their loved ones.
And did I tell you how much I love the food in this gorgeous city? It is always a pleasure to have dinner on a crisp winter's evening in the heart of this bustling Italian metropolis. Whether it's at a cozy bistro on the side of a cobbled street, a family run cafe in a hidden courtyard or one of Milan's stylish restaurants I love trying out all the fabulous Italian fare - but honestly my favourite was the sparkling festive wine they had in every restaurant this year.
While indulging in my favorite treats I caught sight of the incredible street decorations, it really was an enchanting experience. I feel like it’s like stepping straight into a festive fairytale with every corner I turn - every little twinkling light adds to the charm! But then it would be remiss of me not to talk about the beautiful street food I was so lucky to sample.
After the shopping was complete I finally found myself in a lovely traditional cafe, sipping hot chocolate by a fire, listening to the laughter of fellow shoppers and tourists alike as they enjoyed a bit of festive downtime, that’s when I realized what it really is that I love most about this amazing city.
That feeling of festive warmth that envelopes you like a hug. That feeling of being among friendly faces as we all embraced the magic of Christmas. It felt good!
My journey to Milan might have been short, but the magic and the memories I gained will certainly last long. This amazing city, always a favourite destination of mine, has a place in my heart, and this Christmas trip has truly been one for the books! So now, as I close my laptop, I am so ready for this New Year and what adventures it will hold! But first, let's celebrate the beautiful and glamorous end to another amazing year with an exquisite glass of Italian Prosecco! Ciao, for now - Emma.
