sicily -jewel of the mediterranean

​Sicily is the newest addition to my bucket list! Geoff and I were on a trip to Southern Italy last summer and just loved it!  It piqued our interest in Sicily as a destination and we are determined to go!
 
Sicily has everything.  A unique culture, ancient history, natural beauty, beaches for relaxation, and an amazing food and arts scene.   Honestly, you could pick one of these features and just focus on it - which means many trips to Sicily!
 
It is the largest island in the Mediterranean and the most populated.  The earliest archeological record on the Island is from 14,000 BC.  It is a mecca for ancient history buffs and It is named after the Sicels, who inhabited the eastern part of the island during the Iron Age.
 
Word of warning - it is HOT during the summer months, however the water is warm.  The island has many beaches to choose from and offers varied natural beauty- including a live volcano!!
 
- Cindy -

destination of the week
sicily, italy

For many years, Italy's classic cities of Rome, Venice, Florence, and Milan have attracted tourists from around the world while Sicilians quietly produced their wine, grew almonds, pistachios, olives, and citrus, and dined on superb seafood. But word has been getting out about the island's picturesque coastline, historic towns, and many attractions. The large tri-cornered island off the toe of Italy's boot is now recognized for all it has to offer.
 
From the lively capital in Palermo to the hilltop city of Taormina to Trapani in the west, Sicily is being discovered for the magical destination that it is. The diverse island offers beaches, mountains, active volcanoes, and even skiing in winter. Well-preserved archeological sites, cathedrals, and buildings show evidence of its history as a home for Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans, Spanish, and others. The indigenous Sicanians, about whom little is known, are thought to have occupied the island as far back as 8000 BC, giving Sicily its name. 
 
Sicily has its own style of Italian cuisine, and both its location and history influence its favorite dishes. It's not unusual to see couscous on a menu, reflecting Arabic influences, and pasta is served with a variety of ingredients, with each locale having its specialty. Fresh, delicious seafood is plentiful, with the island's more than 600 miles of coastline, and sardines are served on their own as well as in the flavorful pasta con le sarde that also includes fennel, pine nuts, and raisins. 
 
Surrounded by the Tyrrhenian, Ionian, and Mediterranean Seas, Sicily has miles of varied and beautiful coastline. Near Taormina, Isola Bella is a gorgeous beach, and it's common for a lido (beach club) to offer umbrellas, chairs, beverages, and dining. A cable car takes visitors from the hilltop to beaches at Mazzaro. The sea is clear and warm, and the sand is pebbly (beach shoes are suggested). Nearby Giardini Naxos offers both lidos and public areas.
 
https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/reasons-to-visit-sicily

travel tip of the week
best months to visit

The best time to visit Sicily is from May to June or September to October. These late spring and early fall months offer hospitable temperatures in the 70s and low 80s, which are ideal for temple gazing, beach lazing or hiking. These are both considered shoulder seasons, and you may be able to score some discounts. If you plan a July or August vacation, you'll contend with lots of crowds, high prices and the hottest temperatures of the year. Winter sees temperatures in the 50s and low 60s; you can find greatly reduced hotel rates, but swimming in the ocean isn't an option.

virtual vacation of the week

​Sicily is one of Italy's best destinations. Enjoy this travel guide across Sicily's incredible places. From the medieval seaside town of Cefalù, to the volcanic Aeolian Islands, Sicily has so much to offer.
Video by Ryan Shirley and found on YouTube

what's next on your bucket list

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