The journal

Notes from the island

Sicily Travel Update 2026: What Is Happening Right Now?
Activities · 10 min

Sicily Travel Update 2026: What Is Happening Right Now?

Sicily Travel Update 2026: Mount Etna, Catania Airport & What Tourists Need to Know Last updated: 19 August 2026 If you are travelling to Sicily this year, recent headlines about Mount Etna may have raised some questions. Our Sicily travel update 2026 explains what visitors need to know before arriving. Mount Etna has experienced significant […]

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How Much Does a Beach Day in Taormina Really Cost?
Activities · 5 min

How Much Does a Beach Day in Taormina Really Cost?

If you’re researching Taormina beach lido prices, you’re probably wondering whether a beach day is really worth the cost. After seeing the turquoise waters of Isola Bella and the stylish beach clubs of Mazzarò on social media, it’s easy to understand why so many visitors choose Taormina for their Sicilian holiday. From free public beaches […]

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The Valley of the Temples: The Complete Visitor’s Guide to Agrigento’s Ancient Greek Wonders
Activities · 12 min

The Valley of the Temples: The Complete Visitor’s Guide to Agrigento’s Ancient Greek Wonders

The Valley of the Temples is one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological sites. Located in Agrigento, Sicily, this UNESCO World Heritage Site preserves some of the finest examples of ancient Greek architecture outside Greece. The site formed part of the ancient city of Akragas, which Greek settlers founded around 580 BC. Over time, Akragas […]

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11 Best Wedding Venues in Sicily: A Complete Destination Wedding Guide
Culture · 11 min

11 Best Wedding Venues in Sicily: A Complete Destination Wedding Guide

Searching for the best wedding venues in Sicily means choosing much more than a beautiful place to say “I do.” The island offers dramatic coastlines, centuries-old towns, and countryside estates — and every region creates a completely different wedding experience, from Taormina’s cliffside sea views to the wild coastline of the west. Here’s the part […]

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When Does a Historic Villa in Taormina Become Part of History? The Story of Villa  Mimì
Culture · 7 min

When Does a Historic Villa in Taormina Become Part of History? The Story of Villa Mimì

The Enduring Story of Villa Don Mimì Taormina Some villas impress you with beautiful architecture. Others captivate you with breathtaking views. Yet only a handful become part of history. Not because they are larger. Not because they are more luxurious. Instead, they become unforgettable because extraordinary people once walked through their doors. Perched above the […]

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In a World of Mass Production, Donna Pidda Reminds Us Why Handmade Still Matters
Culture · 4 min

In a World of Mass Production, Donna Pidda Reminds Us Why Handmade Still Matters

Walk through almost any tourist town in Italy and you’ll find beautiful jewelry displayed in elegant shop windows. Colorful Sicilian pinecones. Moor’s heads. Lemons. Majolica patterns. Sacred hearts. They’re beautiful. But here’s the question few of us stop to ask: Who actually made them? In today’s world, almost everything can be mass-produced. Even pieces that […]

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