Whether you're an art lover, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Eastern Sicily has something for everyone. In this small guide, I’ll take you through the must-see sights and hidden gems you can’t miss on your journey through this captivating part of the island. Let's discover what we can't miss in Eastern Sicily! 1. Noto Noto is one of those small, compact towns in Sicily. But it’s also one of those places that, … [Read more...]
What to See in Western Sicily
Cefalù Cefalù is not exactly on the western coast of Sicily, but it's not too far from it, and it would be a shame not to visit. So, I decided to include it in the must-see places of western Sicily. Cefalù is a beautiful gem set on the Sicilian sea. So beautiful that crossing its gaze, made up of narrow streets, alleys, and glimpses of the sea, causes a sense of embarrassment. The little hill that distinguishes it seems to have been … [Read more...]
What to eat in Trapani (and where)
If you find yourself exploring Trapani and are on the lookout for authentic spots to savor local dishes, you've found the perfect guide! Here, you’ll discover hidden gems that will make you fall in love with Trapani’s culinary traditions. You’ll learn which dishes are absolutely unmissable and where to taste the culinary treasures this remarkable cuisine has to offer. Before arriving in Trapani, I made sure to get advice from a local expert on … [Read more...]
Is Volcanic Tourism a Thing?
Believe it or not, but volcanic tourism is an increasingly popular travelling niche offering those with an adventurous side the opportunity to witness the beauty and raw power of both active and dormant volcanoes. Recently, volcanic tourism has been attracting travellers and nature enthusiasts from all over the world. Whether it’s hiking through hardened lava fields, witnessing bubbling hot springs, waterskiing the surrounding lakes or heading … [Read more...]
Mellieha in Malta
It’s always difficult trying to find reasonably priced holidays in the summer school break, so when I spotted this package deal to Malta I snapped it up for me, my husband, Tom and my two daughters, Eva, 12, and Lily, 10. I wasn’t sure what to expect, as Malta used to have the reputation of being a destination for older holiday makers, rather than families, but it seems the island is trying to change all that. Our resort, Mellieha, has the … [Read more...]
Majestic Malta
As a small island country located in southern Europe, Malta falls directly into the category of what we would call an often-missed gem. Malta is one of those countries many only know of by name. With a population just shy of 500,000 and a total land area of 316km2, this is one of the travel destinations whose small stature in no way dictates what it has to offer. With beautiful beaches, amazing geographical formations, and fantastic shopping, … [Read more...]
Three Must See Sights in Northern Cyprus
Last summer when I mentioned to people I was planning a trip to Cyprus (Northern Cyprus as well), I often received blank stares or the question "where is Cyprus". A little geography is in order; the island is in the Mediterranean Sea - in the far eastern reaches south of Turkey and just west of Lebanon. It is the third largest island in the Mediterranean after Italy's Sicily and Sardinia. I flew from Beirut, Lebanon - there are certainly … [Read more...]
Visit Malta – June 2017
Malta is a series of tiny islands located about 80 kilometers south of Sicily and east of Tunisia in the Mediterranean. The country has a rich cultural history with both Islamic and Catholic influence. It was a part of the British Empire until 1964 when it gained independence. The charming capital city of Valletta is Europe's smallest and with 450,000 people living on the islands Malta is one of the world's densest populated countries. Valletta … [Read more...]
The Joys of Travel and Stories That Illuminate Them by Thomas Swick
Author Swick highlights "the seven joys of travel" in seven chapters - anticipation, movement, break from routine, novelty, discovery, emotional connection and a heightened appreciation of home". This book is about his experiences, people he meets on the road and the resulting stories from travel when one is open to experiencing these seven joys. These seven chapters are followed by seven additional chapters focusing on personal stories from … [Read more...]
Great Spots for Island Hopping
One of the best parts about travelling is that you can explore multiple locations that you’ve loved on past visits or are eager to discover. While all-inclusive destination holidays can be relaxing and fun, they don’t give you the opportunity to move from one great spot to the next the way you can with a cruise. Whether you’re a history geek looking to visit historical sites, or a culture fan wanting to soak up the local music and food scene, … [Read more...]