NDY AT MOUNT ETNA
DAY TRIP FROM MALTA TO SICILY
Sicily (Sicilia) is rather more than an Italian region: it's famous for its
July 2000 Bairdstravel took the ferry from Malta to the Italian island of Sicily. Sicily`s iunique character - and for being a law unto itself. The football that is being kicked by Italy's boot, Sicily lies to the south of the country and just a short distance from the African coast. A long history of invasion and conquest has resulted in a lavish mixed heritage: Greek, Arab, Roman, Norman. This wide range of influences can be detected in the island's architecture, landscape and culture, and has blended to make Sicily a thoroughly unique destination.
Equally important has been the land's predisposition to natural disasters. Mount Etna, in the eastern part of the island, is Europe's highest and most active volcano (its last serious eruption was in 2002). Sicily is also subject to earthquakes and extreme weather conditions. A devastating earthquake in 1693 destroyed the south-eastern towns, which were rebuilt in a Baroque style. Nature, disaster and mystery go hand-in-hand in Sicily - at the time of writing (February 2004), a minor news story recounts how both geologists and exorcists are to be brought in to investigate mysterious fires affecting electrical wires and appliances in a settlement near Messina.
Sicily's pastries and desserts (dolci) are famous for their richness, and stuffed with ingredients like marzipan and ricotta. Among the treats are cannoli (thin tubes stuffed with ricotta, chocolate or candied fruit). In the Sicilian heat welcome specialities are the area's fine ice cream and the refreshing drink granita di limone (ice and lemon slush). Marsala is Sicily's most well-known wine.
TAORMINA
TAORMINA
As an attractive and permanently-fashionable destination, Taormina is known as a delightful but expensive place to stay. Many of the town's hotels and restaurants are in the upper price-bracket. However, one of the town's principal attractions - the view - is free to enjoy, and visiting for a day trip or careful planning can make Taormina accessible to all. Accommodation is cheaper out of season, and the little town is less packed, too. March, April and May are good months to enjoy the sunshine (usually), the flowers and relatively-uncrowded streets and restaurants.