From Nature to Style City - arriving in Milano

Dear Fashionistas,

We enjoy a leisurely breakfast and catch the train to Milano. Train travel in Italy really is the go. It's inexpensive and despite all evidence to the contrary as to how Italians go about their business, everything runs on time. It just doesn't feel like it at the time of queueing and purchasing tickets.

We arrive in Milan around 3 hours because sadly, a very fast train is not an option. Still, no changing, so that makes life easier. It says something about Milan don't you think, that we have sighted five designer shops, and that is even before we have left the train station!!!!!! We then head to the local metro network, similar to London's and Paris's respective underground system. Works like a total dream and we arrive at hotel in central Milan. We ditch bags and head to the Duomo.

We went into the Cathedral, the largest Gothic Cathedral in the world and the third largest of any kind in Europe. It holds a lazy 40,000 congregation- the population of Milan at the time it was built in the 13 century albeit that it took over 400 years to finish in 1812 and with some bibs and bobs still being put on it in the 1960's. There are some 135 spires and 3200 statutes in and on it. Each spire has a statue atop. We walked aound this most beautiful building and were amazed at the creativity of men.

The beauty was overwhelming so we needed a birre. So we headed to the very Glamourous Piazza Duomo where the most beautiful arcade awaits you. The architecture puts the beautiful gear sold there to shame. It's just incredible. So after a birre, we then decided to get up close and personal with God. You can climb the 165 steps to the roof (or catch a lift) and walk on the actual roof. Guess which one we opted for? Mind blowing. On a clear day you can see Switzerland. To access this amazing building where even the roof tiles are marble is just beyond the pale.

And guess what dear readers, across from La Duomo is the famous Obika Mozarella Bar - this ubercool joint where you try different types of buffalo mozarella that Veronica had recommended we try. So, needless to say, that was our next stop. The Mozarella Bar is on the third floor of the department store La Rinascenta where, Giorgione Armani started out as a window dresser folks ! We headed to the top floor, overlooking the Duomo and then had one of life's great experiences. We had the degastastion menu of three different types of mozzarella with a salad of apples, raddicches, cantaloupe and rocket, as well as a plate of cured meats and lovely rose on the recommendation of our gorgeous waiter. Tres bliss folks !


We walked off the Mozarella by wandering through Milan. Milan is like a very sophisticated Melbourne with its trams but better preserved and older buildings. But its like us, black clothing , diversity, a laid back vibe and just a really accessible space. We loved it!

Bed and looking tomorrow


Siobhan and Kelly xxxx