Sicilia...le sue Montagne mi Chiamano!

Surrounded by three seas this the largest island in the Mediterranean has an unparalleled historical legacy. Nowhere else have Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, French, Germans, Spanish, Italians and even the British left such an indelible impression. Because of these influences Sicily possesses a rich and unique culture, especially with regard to the arts, music, literature, cuisine, and architecture. It is home to important archaeological and ancient sites, such as the Necropolis of Pantalica, the Valley of the Temples, Erice and Selinunte with some of the best-preserved Greek ruins outside of Greece. 

Another result of the combination of influences, is the language spoken in Sicily.  It's...well obviously... Sicilian!  A Romance language the language is distinct from Italian and not a dialect.  Although proper Italian is taught in all the schools it is the main language spoken here. In addition, much like most of the world, each village has their own dialect.  So you have the three languages mixed together to become the unique language of whatever town you are driving through or visiting.  

So far in all my travels this is the most magical of places I've ever visited.  Not only for it's history and beauty but because Sicily is the home of my grandparents and as a result is part of the person I am.  My first visit to Sicily was in 2004 and it captivated my soul.  From the moment we landed in Palermo and did almost exactly what the Sicilian Escape is doing, I was captivated.  With ever turn, most of the time hair pin turns, I was left more breathless.  Driving along the roads we'd see houses which I thought were boarded up and deserted.  But, I found they weren't that at all, only shuttered to keep the hot Sicilian sun out!  I had never seen villages cut into mountains until this trip.  Seen from afar they also seemed almost like something that had been abandoned years ago.  But one after the other they are a masterpiece of what can be accomplished with determination and the love of the country.  Only when climbing the mountain,  carefully navigating the switchbacks, and arriving the actual village do you discover the intricacies and individuality of each.  

The beauty of Sicily is breathtaking and driving in Sicily is challenging....to say the least. Not only do you have to deal with maneuvering the small village roads but you must learn the nuances of driver courtesy or lack of.  In Italy there are many streets that have no clear lanes. Palermo in particular seemed to have 5 lanes of cars in only 3 actual lanes. And, then of course the vespas always seemed to make their own lanes. The secret though, I soon discovered is not to make eye contact with the other drivers. Particularly those wanting to come into your lane from across street. Once you make eye contact they take that as an okay and they are in front of you whether you are ready or not!

Many cruise ships call at the ports of Sicily, but I strongly recommend bypassing cruises to Sicily and either do your own things or pick up an escorted tour.  Whichever you decide, I can help you with your planning!  Drop me an email!