Pretty in Milan

Tripoto
1st May 2014
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The Center of Milan
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Shopping at la Rinascente
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Catching a cab in Milan
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Meeting new amici
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Dinner with new amici
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Authentic cappuccino
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Design Week with amicii
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Amici at the AC Milano basketball game
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Cheering for Rhinos Milano
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My favorite Panzerotti Luini
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Gelato of course
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Map of Milan, Italy
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Aperitivo at Masion Maschino Hotel

Upon my arrival to Milan, Duomo di Milano was my first stop. Duomo, the largest cathedral in Italy, is rich in history and architecture. This beautiful cathedral is the center of Milan (much like Times Square in NYC), and is absolutely breathtaking. Tourists are able to tour the cathedral and light candles for their loved ones.

While at Duomo I worked up an appetite chatting with a friendly African-Italian model. He introduced me to Luini Panzrottie, an amazing bakery nearby. For some, the long lines can be off putting, but it was well worth the wait (even for just one bite of the panzerotti ham and mozerella). Just steps from Duomo we found one of the world’s most exclusive shops, la Rinascente Milano Piazza Duomo. The name comes from the Italian word Rinascita, meaning ‘rebirth.” The giant Italian retailer included divine household products and features top fashion brands like Mui Mui, Prada and Dolce and Gabbana. As a makeup artist, this was the perfect place to stock up on familiar brands like MAC, Chanel and the latest in Armani Beauty.

As a beauty enthusiast, I tend to be very hands on with my day to day look. While bouncing around the shops near Duomo, I stumbled upon Sephora and cashed in on frothy shampoos, creamy conditioners and dreamy serums. The shops around Duomo were also really well connected and wifi was available at the drop of a dime. I was constantly receiving Facebook messages, tweets and Instagram notifications.

Beyond the shopping and technology, I was able to really connect with the locals. Despite the jovial and overly expressive stereotypes of Italians, they were classy, conservative and friendly. I never felt strange or out of place. The truth is, I felt more at home there than I do in many parts of the US.  The elderly locals often called out “Capella Bella” which meant  “Pretty Hair.” Some highlights of my stay in Milan included being invited to an american football game, soccer match and an Armani basketball where I taught the Rhino cheerleaders how to dougie (super fun!). If you are kind and open minded, Italians will send you home with a piece of La Bella Vita. Ciao!

Duomo di Milano is the center of everything. There you can find tourist, delicious bits, high end shopping and a wealth of culture.
Photo of Duomo di Milano, Piazza del Duomo, Milan, Italy by passport2pretty
Photo of Duomo di Milano, Piazza del Duomo, Milan, Italy by passport2pretty
I love la Rinascente for high end fashion finds. Milan is the fashion capitol of the world. You can find unique designer pieces that are not available in the US.
Photo of La Rinascente , Milan, Italy by passport2pretty
If you are looking for a bit of night life the Roberto Cavalli is the hottest spot in town. Celebrities like, Beyonce, Cameron Diaz and Rihanna have all been spotted here. This is a lot a great spot to meet new people who can show you around.
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If you love art, culture and home design you must vivid Salone del Milano. The exhibition showcases the latest in furniture and design around the globe. Salone is held annually in April and so far I have been twice and every year my mind is completely blown away by the creativity and the variety of style.
Photo of Fiera Milano, Strada Statale 33 del Sempione, Rho, Milan, Italy by passport2pretty
I found myself meeting tons of new people from artist to politicians. I met a AC Milano basketball player and he invited me to a game at the Olympia International Stadium. What a thrill to see the AC Milano team score countless baskets for the win. The went on to play in the championship!
Photo of Olympia International (S.R.L.), Via Copernico, Milan, Italy by passport2pretty
Im a huge football fan and what a treat it was to see the Rhinos Milano AFT play at the Arena Civica. I even got to be head cheerleader and taught some American dances. This game was so much fun even in the ran and even though they did not win.
Photo of Arena Civica, Viale Giorgio Byron, Milan, Italy by passport2pretty
Hands down I probably visited this place more times then I care to admit. There are so many delicious panzerotti to devour. The lines are pretty long but move quickly. For 3 euros its quite a steal.
Photo of Luini, Via Santa Radegonda, Milan, Italy by passport2pretty
Photo of Luini, Via Santa Radegonda, Milan, Italy by passport2pretty
What a luxurious hotel. The rooms were delectabe and plush. The staff was incredible and assisted me with so much insider information. Every evening they provided a special aperitivo for their quest.
Photo of Maison Moschino Hotel, Viale Monte Grappa, Milan, Italy by passport2pretty