Milan, darlings

Posted by Megan Conner at 16:50 on 20 May 2008

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Just recently jet-setting unofficially became part of my job description when I was invited on a glamorous press trip to Milan on behalf of Peroni Nastro Azzuro (yes, the beer). While lager isn't normally my thing (popping corks is preferable) I figured the opportunity just couldn't be passed up: for starters, it was all in aid of food. Indeed.

Here's the factual bit: Peroni (which I rather loved the taste of, by the end of the trip) is launching an exclusive range of Aperitivo dishes (Italian tapas to non-foodies or 'Scooby snacks' among my circle of friends) for the summer. The recipes, which have been devised by none other than supreme Italian chef Giorgio Locatelli, will be whipped up and served in participating bars and restaurants across the UK complimentary-style from June when you order the premium Italian beer.

My job (if you can call it that) was to experience authentic Italian 'Aperitivo' in the heart of Milan, along with some fellow journalists. You know, just to prep us up for the L'Aperitivo di Peroni arrival in Britain.

After touching down in the city we were promptly taken to The Bulgari Hotel, which is, in fact, the swankiest hotel I've ever stayed in. Just five minutes from the fashion quarter, it's one of the most pleasant, peaceful spots in Milan and ultimately a destination for the rich and famous. 'Too busy' to hire the hotel's Ferraris, personal shoppers and Riva motorboats to take us across Lake Como, we stuck to our brief: to eat and drink the Italian way, sampling Aperitivo in the trendy Dolce and Gabbana Gold Bar and rustic Milano (one of the city's most recommended waterholes), before heading on to the Armani Prive club.

Much light grazing and drinking later (this really is the way the Europeans do it and the best way to avoid unnecessary bloating on a night out - why so long for the UK to catch on?), I headed back to my hotel room and proceeded to light every candle around the bath, get in the bath, then the spray jet shower (all at 3am) before taking a swim in the gold-tiled lap pool (again, candle-lit) come morning. This was swiftly followed with a full plate of poached eggs and ham on toast and a spot of shopping in the capital. My mantra? Must-use-all-swanky-facilities-no-matter-how-short-the-stay.

Really, this is the life.

The L'Aperitivo di Peroni offering arrives in bars and eateries across the UK from June. Or simply follow Giorgio Locatelli's recipes at www.peroniitaly.com

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