This past week, Christie's mom Lynn and her friend Wayne have been visiting with us here in Sicily. Due to the fact that George, Christie, and myself have now been awarded the title, "Temporary Locals," we have been asked by the Sicily Tourism Board to share some of our experiences with you and lessons for potential visitors to Sicily. We have put together a short list of things we have learned, and are pleased to present them to you know.
IF YOU VISIT SICILY, YOU MUST BE WILLING TO:
1. Eat in Very Scenic Locations.
Late Afternoon bottle of wine by the sea at Isola Bella, Taormina.
Due to the overwhelming number of scenic locations available on Sicily, you must be willing to eat in front of jaw dropping scenery, often with the sound of waves in the background. This may force you to speak more slowly, or in fact, just stop and listen. Please be advised of this before you travel here!
The patio at "Il Covo del Piratta" is directly on top of the water.
2. Shopping at both high-end stores and authentic markets
Christie and Lynn stroll the streets of Taormina's main street.
Due to the variety of towns that dot the coast, you will experience both high end shops and local markets. Be prepared to meet interesting locals who hand pick your fruit, and also those with extensive retail guidance. Again: Shop at your own Risk!
At the market in Palermo - with the sweetest man we have met!
3. Sight Seeing at Historical Sights that have much significance.
Along your travels, you will be forced to see many century old buildings - usually built by Greeks and/or Romans. Many will have evidence of old volcanic eruptions, adding to the romance of your whole experience. I am warning you: your picture taking finger WILL GET SORE.
In front of Catania's Duomo.
Lynn and Wayne in front of Catania's Elephant Statue.
4. You will have to eat local cuisine - often EXTREMELY TASTY!
When you come to Sicily, you will be forced to eat as the locals do: Extremely Well. Prepare yourself for pastas, pizzas, breads, cheeses in all shapes and sizes, and most dangerously: DESSERTS! Many locals go into "FOOD SHOCK" and begin eating anything that crosses their path. Do not fall into this trap! The most visible culprits include a food the locals call "Cannoli" and its more famous cousin, gelato.
Going in for their first bite...
... you have to love the INTENSITY!!!
5. Due to the great weather, many meals will be OUTSIDE - including Breakfast!
Patios are mandatory at a minimum of 50% of your meals. Be prepared to wear sunglasses while dining, especially in the warm early morning hours!
The patio at Malibu is private and typically reserved - please call ahead if you expect to be seated.
6. FINALLY, ALL OF THIS MAY PUT YOU IN SUCH A GOOD MOOD THAT YOU WILL JUST START TO DANCE!!! (USUALLY IN PUBLIC PLACES!!!)
~ J. Twice
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