The swallows arrive above the tall cypress trees surrounding the ancient Greek amphitheater in Siracusa. I take my seat among the hundreds who enter the Teatro Greco quietly, almost reverently. We have gathered here to watch a modern production of Sophocles' Oedipus Rex. Teatro Greco, Siracusa The stones of this performance venue [...]
Taormina Amphitheater and Mt. Etna Many years ago, the day arrived when I could finally visit Sicily. Black and white Italian films of the late 40s and 50s returned to my memory; criminal conspiracies, dangerous streets and pickpockets by the hundreds formed a stereotypically violent society where lawlessness was rampant and tourists were [...]
Sicily remains as confounding and amazing as I found it during my first visit fifteen years ago. Each annual return brings surprises and experiences beyond imagination — none so more so than the discovery of a painting by a Dutch artist, Vrancke van der Stockt in, of all places, the Basilica of San Giorgio, the [...]
In late December, Mark Smith, Owner of Private Italy Tours, was invited to an interview on a national travel show, Speaking of Travel. Marilyn Ball, who is the creator of the show, was the host. Marilyn Ball - Speaking of Travel The interview (link below) covers some current topics of interest to travelers [...]
Our first week on the Amalfi Coast is spent in beautiful accommodations offering unique and incredible views along the coastline. Capri and the Amalfi Coast have lured travelers for many years.
Ramo D'Aria Entrance Many of our readers write with questions about places to stay on Sicily, places away from the crowds and cacophony of a large city, a place with true Sicilian 'character'. Recently, I had the opportunity to enjoy an overnight stay at a relatively new accommodation, located in Giarre, about thirty-five [...]
If you are planning on a trip to Italy, this is the season to read up on numerous great books about the culture, history and la vita Italiano. Florence: The reference I most strongly recommend is Christopher Hibbert's definitive The House of Medici-Its Rise and Fall. Hibbert deftly guides the reader through the intricacies of [...]
CALTAGIRONE Set in the heartland of Sicily, Caltagirone has been beckoning lovers of Sicilian pottery for centuries. The name derives from the Arabic word for "Castle of Pottery Jars", "qal'at-al-jarar". Home to Sicilian Ceramics, this lovely baroque city is also home to some excellent restaurants. There is also a place that I must recommend on [...]
With nearly ten years of travel experience across Sicily with our small group tours, I have been able to enjoy some incredible meals. This blog post is but a small reference for you as you travel. More to come; Siracusa, Agrigento, Caltagirone and Taormina. Stay tuned and watch for the next update! MODICA Amidst the [...]