Members' Blog

We caught up with Milan Team Leader Lauren Bradford to hear all about their Italian adventure!

“From stepping off the plane to discovering Milan’s hidden gems, our journey with Wales YFC was nothing short of incredible. Here’s a little snapshot of what we got up to over our five-day adventure in Italy…

Day 1: Touchdown & Surprises

The excitement kicked off the moment we arrived at the airport, where we were greeted by the other girls in the group. There was a buzz in the air as we opened our envelope to discover our destination – Milan! After a smooth flight, we landed in the evening and couldn’t wait to explore. Our first night saw us heading straight into the city centre, where we grabbed some delicious food and had our first real “wow” moment as the majestic Milan Cathedral greeted us in all its evening-lit glory. A picture-perfect welcome to Italy.

Day 2: Rooftop Views & Italian Flavours

We started our day with a guided tour of the Milan Cathedral, including the iconic rooftop. After climbing the flights of stairs (worth every step!), we were rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the city. The intricate architecture and skyline made for plenty of photo moments.

After a leisurely lunch, we headed back to the hotel to prep for one of the highlights of the trip – a cooking class! We learned how to make authentic pizza and gelato, all while sipping on Prosecco and having a great laugh with the group. It was such a fun, hands-on experience, and everyone impressed with their culinary skills.

Day 3: A Dreamy Day on the Water

This was our most jam-packed day, but also one of the most magical. We embarked on a private boat trip on Lake Como, with stops in Bellagio and Lugano. Our first stop was the charming town of Bellagio, where flower-lined streets and boutique shops awaited. We enjoyed lunch at a famous pizza spot before heading to Lugano, just across the Swiss border. There, we took the chance to cool off with a swim in the lake – a refreshing highlight! Finally, we returned to explore Como town, soaking in the stunning architecture and the laid-back lakeside atmosphere.

Day 4: Poolside Vibes & Canal Nights

After a hectic few days, we embraced the chance to relax with a free day. Luckily, our hostel had a pool right next door, ideal for some sunbathing, chatting, and unwinding. As the evening rolled in, we dressed up and ventured to the canal for dinner. The setting was absolutely stunning. We tucked into authentic pasta dishes and explored a little more before heading back for a fun evening quiz and drinks with everyone at the hostel. A perfect balance of chill and cheerful!

Day 5: Brunch, Shopping & Goodbyes

For our final morning, we went into the heart of Milan for a relaxed brunch and a bit of last-minute souvenir shopping, because what’s a trip without some keepsakes? After lunch, we made our way back to the hostel, packed our bags, and prepared to head home.

While Milan itself was incredible, the best part of this trip was undoubtedly the people. We all connected so quickly, it honestly felt like we’d known each other before. There was so much laughter, great conversations, and shared memories that we’ll cherish for a long time.

A huge thank you to Wales YFC for this amazing opportunity. This trip was the perfect blend of culture, relaxation, adventure, and friendship. 

Until next time… ✨

Lauren x”