Mediterranean Gem ~ Sicily
Positioned perfectly in the heart of the Mediterranean, Sicily has been luring ongoers since the time of legends by the poet Homer and Virgil. Admired by the many ancient cultures – Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Elymians, and Greeks. Whose bones lie buried here. Another reason to visit Sicily is to try their ancient cuisine which relies on a few key island-grown ingredients: shellfish and citrus, tuna and swordfish, pistachios, almonds, and ricotta. But Sicily’s timeless recipes – from the simplest cannolo to the most exquisite fish couscous – live on. Eating these amazing meals all the while sitting back, relaxing, and enjoying Sicily’s varied landscape. With the dramatic volcanic mountains and beautiful colors of the sea. This mountain scenery makes a stunning backdrop for all visitors. Here are a few of our must-sees during your visit:
Taormina
Taormina
The town of Taormina lies on the east coast of Sicily and offers mesmerizing views of the Mediterranean Sea and Mt. Etna volcano. Not far from the main drag of Corso Umberto, you will find steps leading down to relaxing beaches with clear ocean water. The best times to visit Taormina are spring and fall. The months of July and August are the busiest times, with the hottest weather.
The beach is always a great way to spend a day or even a few hours. The infamous beach of Isola Bella is popular among tourists and since the bay protects it, you can enjoy sunbathing here at times when the other beaches may be a little chilly.
The town of Taormina and its surrounding areas will always hold a special place in my heart. It’s one of the few places I could see myself living for a long period of time. If you can find a good deal on airfare, this should definitely be on your list of top places to visit. Ciao!!
Palermo / Cefalu
Palermo / Cefalu
While this image is not of Palermo which has many beautiful sites and nature. Cefalù, only an hour’s drive from Palermo is famous for its unique location and architecture. Palermo is the capital of the Italian island of Sicily. The 12th-century Palermo Cathedral houses royal tombs, while the huge neoclassical Teatro Massimo is known for opera performances. Also in the center are the Palazzo dei Normanni, a royal palace started in the 9th century, and the Cappella Palatina, with Byzantine mosaics. Busy markets include the central Ballarò street market and the Vucciria, near the port.
Ragusa
Ragusa
Ragusa is a hilltop city in southeast Sicily, Italy. Ragusa Ibla, the old town, is home to many baroque buildings, like the Duomo di San Giorgio, a grand church with paintings and stained-glass windows. There are sweeping views from the Giardino Ibleo, a public park with churches and fountains. In Ragusa Superiore, the city’s more modern part, is an ornate Ragusa Cathedral, with a museum of religious art and relics.
